Renting out one’s house to film a movie for money might sound like a good deal, unless none of the pay is going to the tenant, like in one Illinois renter’s case. Worse yet, they didn’t even have a say before their landlord signed off on the deal. Reddit user 2saltyjumper, the tenant, explained that an independent studio recently contacted them about using their house to film a scene, and the landlord allegedly didn’t hesitate.
“Landlord has already signed the contract,” 2saltyjumper wrote. Apparently, their agreement also states that “he, and he alone, has full authority to grant permission for them to use the house.” However, the owner said the ball is now in OP’s court on allowing the people to film in their home. The payout will be $1,000, but “per the contract,” the money goes to the landlord.
Needless to say, 2saltyjumper said they told the company they can’t enter until they have a contract with them, the tenant. While the crew agreed, OP still has concerns. “There’s more to the story, but this is my primary concern. Can the movie crew now enter my house based on a contract my landlord signed?” they questioned, wondering what their rights are in this situation. That said, other Reddit users have a good idea.
Redditors Oppose the Landlord’s Decision to Have His Tenant’s House Turned into a Movie Set
“Unless your lease explicitly gives the landlord the right to do something like this, I’d think you’re in 100% control here,” confidently stated a Redditor. “I’d look up all I can about the film company,” suggested another. The user that it was suspicious the studio had already signed a contract with the landlord without stepping foot in the home first, unless they’d taken photos or done some secret scouting.
“This sounds very illegal,” expressed a third commenter, with a few others saying that this so-called “filming for a movie” might be for an ‘adult-exclusive audience.’ Still, regardless of what kind of movie is planned, many people warned OP about what to expect if they end up agreeing. “They are going to completely redecorate and rearrange your house,” cautioned a Redditor, adding how some personal property could end up being broken or stolen.
2saltyjumper has yet to update their post on what they’ve decided. But Reddit’s opinion is pretty clear on this one: Refuse or get ready for a messy situation.
