In short
A trial period is a settling-in time at the start of an arrangement, usually 21 days on Sa Bhaile, when either person can end things with shorter notice if it isn’t working. Private check-ins on day 3, in week 2 and at the end of the trial let each person say how it’s going, without the other seeing their answer.
Why have a trial period?
Sharing a home is personal. A trial gives both people a fair chance to see whether the routines, the household and the room suit them, without feeling locked in.
How long is it?
The default on Sa Bhaile is 21 days. A host can shorten it, but the app asks them to think carefully before removing it, and lodgers always see the trial terms before confirming.
What are the check-ins?
On day 3, in week 2 and at the end of the trial, each person gets a private question: is everything okay? They can answer “All good”, “I’d like a change” or “I have a concern”. A concern opens a private route to our team.
What happens after the trial?
The arrangement continues on the agreed terms, including the normal notice period. Either person can still raise a concern at any time.
Common questions
- Can the trial period be skipped?
- A host can shorten it, but Sa Bhaile strongly recommends keeping it, and lodgers always see the terms before confirming.
- Who sees my check-in answers?
- Only you and, if you raise a concern, our support team. The other person never sees your answers.
- How much notice applies during the trial?
- The notice for the trial is set out in your arrangement, and is usually shorter than the normal notice period.
Official sources
We checked this guide against these sources. Rules change, so check them for the latest position.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. For advice about your situation, contact Citizens Information, Threshold or a solicitor.
Ready to find the right fit?
Listing a room and searching on Sa Bhaile are both free, and every arrangement starts with a trial period.