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Housing for minors

Housing for minors

A minor is a person under the age of 18 years.  Although unusual, sometimes we need to sign up a minor on a licence until they reach the age of 18. This is because the law says a tenancy can't be granted to a young person under the age of 18 (see the succession guidance if the tenant has died).

See the full procedure here

 

See succession for minors and succession.

  • A licence is granted to the minor until s/he reaches the age of 18, when the licensee can be signed up as the tenant.
  • When an offer is made to a minor, the allocating officer updates Northgate allocations notes to show a minor is involved.
  • The licence is on a weekly basis.
  • Record on Northgate that a licence has been granted and note the date of expiry of the minor's 18th birthday.
  • The licensee is liable for rent and any other charges under the licence, as well as any other obligations of the licensee. We treat licensees in a similar way to a tenant but take care to remember that there are important differences between a licensee and a tenant.
  • As with all new tenants we ensure, as much as we can, that they apply for any benefits they may be entitled to.  This includes applying for  Housing Benefit if they are not receiving Universal credit and that the young person understands his/her responsibilities.

Last updated: 23 September 2019