A tenant who owes £2,500 in rent says his landlady has suggested he repay the debt with sex, leaving him feeling backed into a corner and fearing eviction.
The man, who moved into the upper rooms of her house in 2023, was working for a bank but lost his job last March for arriving late. He has since been unable to find another banking role and now works as a labourer for his uncle and babysits his sister's children, paying what rent he can.
Landlady's proposal
After suggesting he could repay the debt through odd jobs such as gardening, decorating, and driving, the landlady replied that she had "something far fruitier in mind" and listed sexual favours, including role play and a threesome with her best friend. The tenant said he is "freaked out."
He fears that if he does not pay soon, the landlady could throw him out and pass the debt to someone else—"someone scary." He described her as charming to his face but connected to "very shady people."
Advice from Jane
Agony aunt Jane O'Gorman advised the tenant to speak to his sister and uncle about a loan for the outstanding amount and to consider moving in with family short-term. She urged him to stand up for himself and tell the landlady that sex is "completely off the menu," proposing a regular payment plan instead.
Jane suggested that if the landlady does not back down, the tenant should visit citizensadvice.org.uk for help, and if he feels intimidated, mention the matter to the police or a local solicitor.
