Hi, I am a live in landlord. I had a tenant lined up to stay for just 5 weeks. He signed the lodger agreement and paid the deposit and rent at the agreed amount. He has not yet moved in or had any keys to my property. I can no longer rent the room due to damage from my cold water storage tank leaking. Can I just return the money he has sent and the contract would be null and void?
Not unilaterally. Youd be in breach of contract, so you have to negotiate and probably offer some extra money to offset his additional costs. If you dont do this, he can sue you.
So even though the room is not fit for purpose I can’t just cancel? What can he sue me for if all moneys are returned? Thanks
He could sue you for his losses. So if, for example he has to pay for temporary accommodation whilst searching for another place and/or pay for storage for his stuff.
If the room is truly uninhabitable, you could try to claim that the contract is frustrated, but you would need legal advice on this.
He was only staying for 5 weeks max into a fully furnished room, so I guess no storage. I will contact him and explain 
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