Does a Live-In Carer Have to Pay Rent? The Important Facts You Need to Know

Have you ever wondered whether live-in carers must pay rent for the homes they live in while providing care? It’s an important question, and one that deserves a clear, compassionate answer. At Home Instead South Lanarkshire, we believe in creating supportive environments for both our clients and their carers. In this blog, we provide an educational and caring explanation of how live-in care arrangements work, with particular focus on rent and housing rights.

When a carer lives with the person they support, accommodation is usually included as part of their employment package. The carer is given a private bedroom and access to household facilities, allowing them to be available around the clock.

Even though carers live where they work, their rights as workers must be protected. They are entitled to proper rest breaks, private time, and fair treatment under employment law. It is not an informal living arrangement — it is a professional agreement that must respect their wellbeing.

Carers receive wages for their work, with accommodation included as part of their overall earnings. Importantly, any benefits — including housing — must not reduce their salary below the legal minimum wage. The total financial package must be clear, fair, and written into their employment contract.

Tax and National Insurance contributions are usually deducted by employers, but carers should always seek professional advice to ensure they meet any personal tax obligations.

While rent charges are rare, there are some circumstances where a live-in carer might contribute towards housing costs:

• Private Employment Arrangements: In informal, privately arranged care agreements (without agency involvement), families might ask for a contribution toward housing costs. This must be fair and clearly agreed in writing.
• Agency Policies: Some agencies may deduct a small amount for accommodation, but it must be reasonable and lawful.
• Shared Accommodation: If the carer shares a home with others and has a more tenant-like arrangement, rent contributions might apply.
• Regional Legal Differences: Local regulations can sometimes affect how housing costs are handled.

In any of these cases, transparency is key. Carers should always understand the full terms of their employment before accepting a role.

Employment contracts for live-in carers should always specify:

• Pay rates
• Hours of work
• Details about accommodation
• Whether any housing costs apply
• Terms relating to breaks and private time

Having clear terms protects both the carer and the client, ensuring mutual respect and understanding.

Carers should also be aware that if their employment ends suddenly, they may need to vacate the provided accommodation quickly. It is always sensible to discuss notice periods and contingency plans when entering a live-in care agreement.

Live-in care can look slightly different depending on the situation:

• Rent-Free Care: Common among family members.
• Rent Deducted from Salary: Sometimes seen with agency-employed carers.
• Formal Rental Agreements: Very rare but possible in specific employment models.

Each arrangement must respect employment law and ensure that carers are paid fairly.

Those offering accommodation to live-in carers must ensure that:

• The living space is safe and comfortable
• Any rent or deductions are lawful and agreed
• The carer is treated with fairness and respect

Accommodation should never be used to pressure or disadvantage the carer.

While rewarding, live-in care can present challenges for carers:

• Limited personal space
• Risk of emotional burnout
• Financial uncertainty if employment is unstable
• Emotional impact of client health decline

Providing carers with proper support, rest time, and respect helps create a positive and sustainable arrangement.

Live-in carers typically do not pay rent because accommodation is included as part of their professional package. Where rent is involved, it must be reasonable, lawful, and clearly set out in writing.

Understanding the legal, financial, and practical aspects of live-in care ensures that both carers and clients can enjoy supportive, respectful living arrangements.

If you have any questions about live-in care in South Lanarkshire, or want to learn more about how Home Instead South Lanarkshire can support your family, please reach out to us. We are here to help.