What is House Sharing?
House sharing is when two or more people rent and live in a property together, each having their own bedroom but sharing common areas like the kitchen, living room, or bathroom. This arrangement is especially popular among students, young professionals, and anyone looking to reduce their living costs or enjoy a more sociable home environment.
Many people choose to share a house because it’s often more affordable than renting a place alone. By splitting rent and household bills, housemates can live in better-quality accommodation or in more desirable locations than they might otherwise afford. House sharing can also offer a sense of community and support, making it an appealing option for those new to an area or looking to meet new people.
It’s important to understand how house sharing differs from other types of living arrangements. For example, if you live in a landlord’s home and share facilities with them, you are usually classed as a lodger, not a housemate. The legal rights and responsibilities of lodgers and resident landlords are different from those in a house share where everyone rents the property together.
Legally, house sharing in the UK can fall under several types of tenancy agreements, with the most common being an assured shorthold tenancy (AST). In most cases, all housemates sign a joint tenancy agreement, making them collectively responsible for paying rent and looking after the property. Alternatively, each person may have a separate agreement with the landlord, known as individual or sole tenancies. The type of agreement you have will affect your legal rights, including notice periods and deposit protection.
House shares with three or more tenants who form more than one household (for example, unrelated individuals) are often classed as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). HMOs are subject to specific legal requirements, such as safety standards and, in many cases, licensing by the local council. These rules are designed to ensure that shared accommodation is safe and well-managed.
Understanding the legal framework around house sharing is essential for protecting your rights and making informed decisions. Whether you’re considering moving into a house share or already living in one, knowing the basics will help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your shared living experience.
Types of Tenancy Agreements Used in House Sharing
When sharing a house in the UK, the type of tenancy agreement you sign will shape your legal rights, your responsibilities, and how you live with your housemates. Understanding these agreements is essential before you commit, as they affect everything from how rent is paid to what happens if someone wants to move out. Here’s a closer look at the most common tenancy agreements used in house sharing.
A joint tenancy is one of the most popular arrangements for house sharers. With a Joint Tenancy, all tenants sign a single contract with the landlord. This means everyone named on the agreement is equally responsible for the rent and any damage to the property. If one person doesn’t pay their share of the rent, the landlord can ask the others to cover the shortfall. Similarly, if one tenant wants to leave, it can affect everyone, as the tenancy usually ends for all tenants unless the landlord agrees to a replacement.
Joint tenancies are common for groups of friends or students renting a property together. They encourage shared responsibility but require a high level of trust between housemates.
Sometimes, each housemate signs their own agreement with the landlord. This is known as a sole or individual tenancy. In this setup, each person is responsible only for their own rent and any damage to their room or the areas they use. If one tenant moves out, it doesn’t directly affect the others’ agreements. This arrangement can offer more flexibility and protection if you don’t know your housemates well.
The vast majority of private rented house shares in England and Wales use an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). ASTs are the standard legal contract for most private tenants. They typically last for six or twelve months and set out your rights, such as protection from eviction and the right to have your deposit protected in a government-approved scheme.
ASTs can be either joint or individual, so it’s important to check which type you are being offered. The specific terms in your AST will affect how you and your housemates share responsibilities and what happens if someone wants to leave early.
The type of tenancy agreement you sign will affect:
Who is responsible for rent and bills: In a joint tenancy, everyone is jointly responsible. With individual agreements, you are only liable for your own share.
How disputes are handled: Joint tenants must act together in dealings with the landlord. Individual tenants can deal with the landlord separately.
What happens if someone leaves: In a joint tenancy, the whole agreement may end if one person leaves, unless the landlord agrees to a replacement. In an individual tenancy, the others can stay on their own agreements.
Before you sign, always read your tenancy agreement carefully and make sure you understand what type you are entering into. If you’re unsure, ask the landlord or letting agent to explain, or seek independent advice.
For a broader overview of the different types of tenancies available in the UK, including how they apply to house sharing, see our dedicated guide. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid common pitfalls when sharing a home.
Rights and Responsibilities of House Sharers
When you share a house with others in the UK, your rights and responsibilities are shaped by your tenancy agreement and the law. Understanding these can help you avoid disputes and enjoy a smoother living experience.
As a tenant, you have certain legal protections, regardless of whether you have a joint or individual tenancy. These typically include:
The right to live in a safe and well-maintained property: Your landlord must ensure the property meets safety standards, such as having working smoke alarms and carrying out necessary repairs under the Housing Act 2004.
Protection from unfair eviction: You cannot be evicted without proper notice and a valid legal reason. The exact process depends on your tenancy type.
Privacy: Your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property, except in emergencies.
Deposit protection: If you have an assured shorthold tenancy (the most common type), your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme.
For a broader overview of your rights in different rental situations, see our guide on renting a house.
Sharing a house comes with shared and individual duties. These generally include:
Paying rent on time: Each tenant is responsible for ensuring their share of the rent is paid, unless otherwise agreed.
Looking after the property: Tenants must take reasonable care of their home, including communal areas, and report any issues promptly.
Respecting neighbours and housemates: This includes keeping noise to a reasonable level and following any agreed house rules.
Paying bills: Utility bills and council tax are often shared, but how this is split should be agreed in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
Not causing damage: You may be liable for any damage you or your guests cause, beyond normal wear and tear.
The way responsibilities are divided depends on your tenancy agreement:
Joint tenancy: All tenants sign one agreement and are collectively responsible. If one person doesn’t pay their share of the rent or causes damage, the landlord can ask any or all tenants to cover the shortfall or repair costs.
Individual (sole) tenancy: Each tenant has their own agreement, usually for their room and shared use of common areas. You’re only responsible for your own rent and any damage caused by you or your guests.
It’s important to check your contract to understand which type you have, as this affects your liability if problems arise.
If you feel your rights are not being respected – such as if repairs aren’t done, your deposit isn’t protected, or you’re facing harassment – you can:
Raise the issue with your landlord in writing: Keep a record of all communications.
Contact your local council: They can help with issues like unsafe living conditions.
Seek advice: Organisations such as Citizens Advice or Shelter offer free guidance.
If another tenant isn’t meeting their responsibilities (for example, not paying their share of rent or bills), try to resolve the issue together first. If that fails, you may need to involve your landlord or seek mediation.
Understanding your rights and obligations is key to a successful house share. For more detailed information on your legal position as a tenant, explore our section on renting a house.
Managing Rent and Bills in House Sharing
When living in a house share, managing rent and bills fairly is essential to avoid misunderstandings and disputes. Here’s what you need to know about dividing costs, handling payments, and what to do if things go wrong.
Rent can be split in several ways among house sharers. The most common methods are:
Equal Split: Each person pays the same amount, regardless of room size or facilities.
Proportional Split: Rent is divided based on room size, whether a room has an en-suite, or other factors like access to a garden or parking.
How rent is paid often depends on your tenancy agreement:
Joint Tenancy: All housemates sign one contract and are jointly responsible for the whole rent. If one person doesn’t pay, the landlord can ask the others to cover the shortfall. This is known as “joint and several liability” under the Housing Act 1988.
Individual Tenancy: Each housemate has a separate agreement with the landlord and is only responsible for their own rent.
It’s important to check your tenancy agreement to understand your legal obligations.
Bills for utilities (such as gas, electricity, water, and broadband) and council tax are usually not included in the rent unless stated in your contract. House sharers typically handle bills in one of the following ways:
One Person Pays, Others Reimburse: One housemate manages the bills and collects money from the others each month.
Shared Accounts or Apps: Some groups set up a joint account or use apps designed for splitting bills, making it easier to track who owes what.
Divided Responsibility: Each housemate takes responsibility for a different bill, ensuring everyone is involved.
Council tax is usually the responsibility of all adult tenants. If you are all on a joint tenancy, you are jointly liable. If you have individual agreements, you are each responsible for your share. Some people may be exempt, such as full-time students, so it’s important to check your situation with your local council.
To avoid disputes, it’s a good idea to:
Agree in Writing: Make a written agreement outlining how rent and bills will be split and paid. This doesn’t have to be a formal contract, but having it in writing helps prevent confusion.
Keep Records: Save receipts and bank statements showing who has paid what.
Communicate Regularly: Hold monthly meetings or use group chats to discuss upcoming payments and any issues.
If someone fails to pay their share of the rent or bills, the consequences depend on your tenancy type:
Joint Tenancy: The landlord can pursue any or all tenants for the full amount of unpaid rent. Housemates may need to cover the missing share to avoid arrears and possible eviction.
Individual Tenancy: The landlord can only pursue the person who hasn’t paid their rent, but unpaid bills can still affect everyone if accounts are in joint names.
For unpaid bills, utility companies may pursue all named account holders. If you paid more than your share to cover someone else, you can ask for reimbursement, and if necessary, consider making a claim through the small claims court.
If a dispute arises, try to resolve it informally first. If you can’t reach an agreement, you may want to seek advice from Citizens Advice or a local mediation service.
By setting clear expectations and keeping good records, you can help ensure that sharing a house remains a positive and stress-free experience.
Safety and Legal Requirements in House Sharing
When sharing a house in the UK, both landlords and tenants have important legal responsibilities to ensure the property is safe and well maintained. Understanding these requirements helps protect everyone living in the home and ensures compliance with the law.
Landlords are legally required to keep the property safe and in good repair. This includes:
Fire safety: Landlords must provide working smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel appliances, such as wood burners. In houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) – where three or more unrelated people share facilities – there are extra rules, such as installing fire doors and providing clear escape routes. Regular checks and maintenance of fire alarms and firefighting equipment are essential.
Property maintenance: Landlords must keep the structure and exterior of the property in good condition. This covers things like the roof, windows, and doors, as well as heating, water, gas, and electrical systems. Any repairs should be carried out promptly once reported.
Electrical and gas safety: Annual gas safety checks by a registered engineer are mandatory, and landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the gas safety certificate. Electrical systems and appliances must also be safe, with regular inspections recommended.
Tenants have the right to live in a property that meets all legal safety standards. It’s important to be aware of the specific fire safety regulations that apply to rented homes. These rules are designed to minimise risks and ensure everyone can escape safely in the event of a fire.
The Fire Safety Regulations set out what landlords must do to protect tenants, especially in shared houses and HMOs. This includes providing clear instructions on fire escape routes, keeping communal areas free from hazards, and ensuring all fire safety equipment is regularly checked.
If you believe your landlord is not meeting these obligations, you can contact your local council for advice or to report unsafe conditions.
To make sure your shared house complies with legal safety standards:
Check for alarms: Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working.
Inspect escape routes: Ensure exits and corridors are kept clear and that you know the escape plan.
Look for safety certificates: Ask your landlord for up-to-date gas and electrical safety certificates.
Report problems promptly: Let your landlord know about any repairs or safety concerns as soon as possible.
Local councils use the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to assess housing conditions. This system checks for hazards such as damp, mould, overcrowding, and fire risks. If your home fails to meet these standards, the council can require your landlord to make improvements.
For a deeper understanding of your rights and responsibilities, and to keep up to date with the latest requirements, visit the official Fire Safety Regulations and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). These resources offer practical guidance for both tenants and landlords to help maintain a safe and legally compliant shared home.
Resolving Common Issues in House Sharing
House sharing can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not uncommon for disagreements to arise between tenants. Understanding how to resolve common issues can help maintain a positive living environment and protect your legal rights.
Some of the most frequent problems in shared houses include:
Noise complaints: Disagreements often occur over late-night music, parties, or general noise levels.
Cleanliness and chores: Arguments may arise if some tenants feel others are not pulling their weight with cleaning or tidying communal areas.
Bill payments: Issues can develop if one or more housemates fail to pay their share of the rent or utility bills on time.
Guests and visitors: Tensions may increase if housemates frequently have guests staying over without prior agreement.
Use of shared spaces: Clashes can happen over the use of kitchens, bathrooms, or living rooms, especially if someone monopolises these areas.
Most disputes can be resolved through open and respectful communication. Here are some practical tips:
Raise concerns early: Don’t let issues fester. Address problems as soon as they arise, before resentment builds.
Stay calm and polite: Approach your housemates in a non-confrontational way. Use “I” statements to express how you feel (e.g., “I find it hard to sleep when there’s loud music at night.”).
Hold a house meeting: Regular meetings can be a good opportunity to discuss shared responsibilities and agree on house rules.
Create a written agreement: Setting out expectations for cleaning, bills, and guests in writing can help prevent misunderstandings.
If you’ve tried talking things through and the problem persists, there are further steps you can take:
Check your tenancy agreement: This document may outline procedures for resolving disputes, including details about who is responsible for bills or cleaning.
Contact your landlord or letting agent: If a housemate’s behaviour breaches the tenancy agreement or house rules, your landlord may be able to intervene.
Seek mediation: Mediation is a process where an impartial third party helps you and your housemates reach an agreement. It’s often faster and less stressful than going to court. For more information, see Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
Get legal advice: If your rights are being infringed or you’re facing eviction due to another tenant’s actions, consider seeking advice from a solicitor or a housing charity such as Shelter.
For more detailed guidance on managing conflicts with those you live with, visit our page on neighbour disputes.
Remember, resolving issues early and amicably is usually the best approach – protecting both your rights and your enjoyment of your home.
Additional Housing Options Related to House Sharing
When considering house sharing, it’s helpful to be aware of other housing options that might suit your needs or circumstances. Here’s an overview of some alternatives and related arrangements, along with guidance on their legal aspects and where to find more information.
If affordability and long-term security are priorities, you might consider council housing. Council housing is provided by your local authority and offers lower rents and more stability than most private rentals. Eligibility is based on need, and there is usually a waiting list. The tenancy agreements for council housing often offer more rights and protections compared to standard house shares.
Another similar option is accommodation provided by housing associations. These are not-for-profit organisations that offer affordable homes to people in housing need. Like council housing, housing association tenancies typically provide greater security and may include options for shared ownership.
For those already living in council or housing association properties, home swaps (also known as mutual exchanges) can be a practical way to change your living arrangements. This process allows tenants to exchange homes with another council or housing association tenant, subject to approval from both landlords. Home swaps are especially useful if you need to move for work, family, or other reasons, but want to retain the benefits of social housing. Always check the terms of your tenancy agreement and get formal permission before proceeding.
If you’re a student, you might be considering student housing as an alternative to a typical house share. Student housing often comes with fixed-term contracts, usually for the academic year, and may be managed by universities or private providers. These agreements can differ from standard house sharing in terms of deposit protection, notice periods, and responsibilities for communal areas. It’s important to read your contract carefully and understand your rights, especially regarding repairs and eviction.
Some house sharers consider subletting as a way to cover costs or accommodate changes in household members. Subletting means renting out all or part of your home to someone else. However, it’s crucial to check your tenancy agreement first – many landlords prohibit subletting without written consent, and doing so without permission can lead to eviction. If you’re in social housing, there are even stricter rules, and unlawful subletting is a criminal offence under the Prevention of Social Housing Fraud Act 2013.
Each of these housing options has its own rules, rights, and responsibilities. For more detailed guidance, you can explore our in-depth pages on council housing, housing associations, student housing, home swaps, and subletting. Understanding your options can help you make informed decisions and find a living arrangement that works for you.
Getting Help and Support for House Sharers
When you’re sharing a house, it’s important to know what help and support is available if you need it. Whether you’re struggling with rent, facing a dispute with your housemates, or just want to understand your rights, there are several resources you can turn to.
If you’re having trouble paying rent or managing other household costs, you may be eligible for financial support. House sharers can sometimes claim benefits such as Universal Credit or Housing Benefit, although the amount you receive may depend on your age, income, and the type of tenancy agreement you have. For example, if you’re under 35 and renting from a private landlord, you’ll usually only receive enough to cover a room in a shared house (the “shared accommodation rate”).
It’s a good idea to check what support you might be entitled to, especially if your circumstances change. For more information about what help is available, visit our housing assistance page.
Disagreements can sometimes arise in shared houses – over rent, bills, repairs, deposits, or even house rules. If you have a problem with your landlord or your housemates, it’s important to know your legal position. Your rights and responsibilities will depend on your tenancy agreement (for example, if you’re a joint tenant, a sole tenant, or a licensee).
You can seek advice from local housing advice centres, your local council, or organisations like Citizens Advice, which provides clear guidance on what to do if you’re facing eviction, harassment, or disputes about your deposit. If your situation is complex or you’re facing eviction, you might also consider contacting a solicitor who specialises in housing law.
Understanding your rights as a house sharer is essential. For example:
You have the right to live in a safe property, with working smoke alarms, and protection from unfair eviction.
Your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme if you have an assured shorthold tenancy.
You’re entitled to notice before your landlord or letting agent enters your home, except in emergencies.
It’s also important to know how to access help if something goes wrong. Keep copies of your tenancy agreement and any correspondence with your landlord or housemates. If you’re unsure about your rights, the Citizens Advice website is a reliable starting point, offering detailed information on key issues for house sharers.
If you’re experiencing ongoing problems, don’t hesitate to seek help early. Many disputes can be resolved with the right advice and support, helping you to maintain a safe and comfortable home.
For more details on your options and further support, explore our housing assistance resources.
