How to maintain privacy while living with a lodger

Living with a lodger has many advantages, but privacy is often a top concern for homeowners. Setting clear boundaries right from the start can help you keep your space feeling comfortable. Here’s how...

Set boundaries

• Private areas: Clearly define which areas are off-limits, like your bedroom or home office. Use locks to restrict access to private rooms to add extra peace of mind.
• Shared spaces: Establish some easygoing guidelines for shared areas. For example, agree on kitchen times during peak meal hours to ensure you both have a chance to cook without any stress. If you usually prepare dinner between 6 and 7 p.m., let your lodger know so they can plan accordingly. You could also set specific laundry days to ensure the washing machine is free when either of you needs it.
• Cleaning: Make sure shared spaces are tidy, and any shared cookware and utensils are cleaned and put away for the next person to use. Read more advice on cleaning. 
• Personal time: Let your lodger know when it’s appropriate to contact you about rental issues or house concerns to prevent personal time from being interrupted.

Separate amenities

• Bathrooms: This can help maintain privacy and make daily routines more convenient. If having separate bathrooms isn't an option, you might set a schedule for when each of you can use the bathroom to avoid any conflicts during busy times, like mornings or evenings.
• Allocate storage space: Limited counter and storage space in the kitchen can lead to frustration. Give your lodger designated shelves or cabinets to prevent clutter.
• Work from home space: If you both work from home and need a space to take calls, make sure you’ve explained that in advance. Defining areas to work in respects each other's privacy and sets boundaries. You could create a work from home setup in their room to avoid them using the shared area. Read more about lodgers and working from home.

Communication 

• Communicate openly: If you want to cook a special meal or have guests over, give your lodger a heads-up so they can plan accordingly. 
• Handle conflicts early: If you start to feel that the kitchen or washing machine is always occupied when you need it, address the issue early. A polite conversation can prevent frustration from building up over time.

Respect your lodger’s privacy

Privacy goes both ways. Just as you expect your lodger to respect your personal space, you should extend the same courtesy to them. Avoid entering their room or space without proper notice, and respect their personal boundaries.

Set rules for guests

Clearly communicate your guest policy, including rules for the number of guests, frequency of visits, and guidelines for overnight guests. Read more advice about overnight guests. 

Written agreement

Draft a rental agreement that outlines house rules, and privacy expectations, minimising potential misunderstandings.

Manage noise levels

Noise can easily infringe on privacy. Implement noise control measures, like soundproofing walls or setting quiet hours. Read more about how to resolve noise concerns.

Living peacefully with a lodger is all about good communication, respect, and setting boundaries to keep your privacy intact. By laying down some simple rules for shared spaces and figuring out guest policies ahead of time, you can create a comfortable setup for everyone.