Resident guidance: All Housing residents - Last updated 8 April 2026

Subletting

Subletting means renting out your home, or part of it, to someone else who then lives there instead of you or alongside you as the main resident. This could mean letting the entire property or just certain rooms to people who aren’t part of your household.

This page explains the different rules we have around subletting for residents renting their home and Anchor homeowners.

In this guidance you'll find:

Information about subletting for rented residents
Subletting your home as an Anchor Homeowner

Information about subletting for rented residents

At Anchor, we do not allow our rented tenants to sublet the whole of their property. You must continue to live in your home as your main residence, and letting out your entire home to someone else isn’t permitted under your tenancy agreement. If you’re unsure about what’s allowed or would like advice, please speak to your location manager who can help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

We know that sometimes you may wish to have someone share your home and we may grant permission for you to have a lodger. You can find more information about this on our Having a lodger in your Anchor home guidance page here.

Tenancy fraud is a serious crime and can lead to a prison sentence. It takes homes away from people who really need them and affects the whole community. If you’re worried about tenancy fraud or think something isn’t right, please let us know. Together, we can keep our community safe and make sure homes go to those who need them most.

You can learn more about tenancy fraud, including how you can report it to us confidentially, on our Housing Fraud guidance page here.

Subletting your home as an Anchor Homeowner

We know your circumstances can change over time, and you may wish to let out your home for a period. Our subletting policy for homeowners is designed to offer flexibility while protecting the wellbeing of our communities and ensuring that all tenancies are secure and well managed.

What is Subletting?

Subletting means you, as a homeowner, rent out your property to someone else who lives there as their main home. This policy mainly applies to leaseholders, shared owners, and those who own their property outright within Anchor schemes.

Why do Anchor have a subletting policy?

Our subletting policy aims to balance your need for flexibility as a homeowner with the importance of maintaining safe, welcoming, and well-managed housing communities. It ensures all lettings are carried out fairly, properties remain properly looked after, and residents can continue to enjoy a settled, neighbourly environment.

Can I sublet my Anchor home?

You may be able to sublet your property, but you must always get Anchor’s written permission before going ahead. Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the terms of your lease and the impact on the wider community. Some leases do not allow subletting, and in some cases, there may be restrictions to ensure that homes stay available for those in genuine need of housing.

What criteria must be met to sublet my property?

Written permission: You must have our approval in writing before any subletting goes ahead.
Compliance with your lease: The terms of your lease or transfer agreement may place restrictions or additional responsibilities on you as a landlord.
Suitable tenants: We may check that your proposed tenants meet age or support criteria relevant to your scheme, to maintain its intended purpose.
Up-to-date records: You’ll need to provide up-to-date contact details, details of the tenancy agreement, and ensure service charges continue to be paid.
Responsible letting: You are still responsible for making sure the property is looked after and that your tenants comply with the scheme’s rules and community standards.

How to apply to sublet your home

Subletting can offer useful flexibility if your situation changes, but it’s important to follow the right steps to protect your home and the community. If you are thinking about subletting your property, please contact your location manager to discuss your circumstances and get an application form. We’ll explain your responsibilities, the process, and help you understand any restrictions that may apply to your lease. We’ll aim to give you a decision as quickly as possible.