I Have Never Lived in a Shared House Before. What Do I Need to Know?

Moving into a shared house, often referred to as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), can be an exciting yet daunting experience, especially if it’s your first time. Sharing a home with others offers affordability, social opportunities, and a unique lifestyle, but it also comes with responsibilities and adjustments. This guide covers the essentials of living in a shared house, including key rules to follow, what life in an HMO is like, and practical tips to ensure a harmonious living environment.

What Is an HMO?

A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property rented out to at least three people who are not from the same household (i.e., not family) but share facilities like the kitchen, bathroom, or living areas. HMOs are common in urban areas, especially for students, young professionals, or those looking to save on rent. They can range from professionally managed properties with strict rules to more informal setups among friends or acquaintances. 

Living in an HMO means balancing personal space with communal living. You’ll have your own bedroom (and sometimes an en-suite bathroom), but you’ll share common areas, which requires cooperation and mutual respect.

Rules to Abide By in a Shared House

To ensure a positive experience for everyone, most shared houses have formal or informal rules. Here are some common guidelines to follow:

1. Respect Shared Spaces

• Clean up after yourself: Wash dishes, wipe down surfaces, and tidy up common areas immediately after use. A dirty kitchen or bathroom can quickly become a source of tension.
• Don’t leave personal items in shared spaces: Keep your belongings in your room to avoid cluttering communal areas.
• Follow a cleaning rota: Many HMOs have a cleaning schedule for shared spaces. Stick to your assigned tasks and contribute fairly.

2. Be Considerate of Noise

• Keep noise levels down, especially at night or early in the morning. If you’re hosting friends or playing music, check with housemates first.
• Use headphones for late-night gaming, music, or video calls to avoid disturbing others.

3. Communicate Clearly

• Discuss expectations early on, such as guest policies, quiet hours, or shared expenses (e.g., toilet paper or cleaning supplies).
• If issues arise, address them calmly and directly rather than letting resentment build. A group chat can be a great way to stay on the same page.

4. Respect Personal Boundaries

• Don’t enter someone else’s room without permission, even if you’re friendly with them.
• Be mindful of borrowing items. Always ask first, and return things promptly and in good condition.

5. Pay Rent on Time

• Ensure your rent is paid on time to maintain a good relationship with your landlord or letting agency.
• All our HMOs have bills included so you don't have to worry about splitting them with your fellow housemates. 

6. Follow HMO Regulations

• If your shared house is a licensed HMO, it must meet specific legal standards, such as fire safety measures, adequate space, and proper maintenance. Familiarise yourself with these regulations to know your rights and responsibilities. Your license can be found on one of the noticeboards in the common areas. 
• Report any maintenance issues (e.g., leaks, faulty appliances) to us promptly to ensure the property remains safe and functional - https://bestnest-maintenance.10ninety.co.uk/

What’s It Like Living in an HMO?

Living in a shared house is a unique experience that comes with both challenges and rewards. Here’s what you can expect:

The Social Side

• Building friendships: Sharing a house can lead to lasting friendships, especially if you get along with your housemates. Communal spaces like the kitchen or living room often become hubs for casual chats or group activities.
• Diverse perspectives: You’ll likely live with people from different backgrounds, which can broaden your horizons and make for interesting conversations.
• Social events: Some HMOs organise house dinners, film nights, or game evenings, fostering a sense of community.

The Challenges

• Conflicting schedules: Housemates may have different work hours or lifestyles, which can lead to disagreements over noise, cleaning, or shared responsibilities.
• Privacy concerns: While you’ll have your own room, shared spaces mean less privacy than living alone. You might hear noise through walls or have to coordinate bathroom use.
• Compromise: Living with others requires flexibility. You may need to adjust to others’ habits, such as different cleaning standards or preferences for shared spaces.

The Practical Side

• Affordability: HMOs are often more budget-friendly than renting a solo apartment, as rent and bills are split among tenants.
• Shared amenities: You’ll have access to facilities like a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, or even a garden, which might be unaffordable in a private rental property.
• Maintenance support: In managed HMOs, we handle repairs and maintenance, which can reduce stress compared to managing everything yourself. However you still have a responsibility to act in a 'tenant-like' manner - utilising things with care and respect. 

Tips for Thriving in a Shared House

To make the most of your HMO experience, consider these practical tips:

1. Set Ground Rules Early

   • Have a house meeting or group chat to establish expectations around cleaning, guests, and noise. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings later.

2. Be Proactive About Cleaning

   • Don’t wait for someone else to take out the bins or clean the bathroom. Taking initiative shows respect and encourages others to do the same.

3. Invest in Noise-Cancelling Headphones

   • If you’re sensitive to noise or have housemates with different schedules, headphones can help you focus or relax without disturbance.

4. Get to Know Your Housemates

   • Small gestures like offering to cook together or joining a group activity can build rapport and make living together more enjoyable.

5. Understand Your Tenancy Agreement

   • Read your contract carefully to know what’s expected of you, including notice periods, deposit details, and rules specific to the property..

6. Respect the Property

   • Treat the house as if it were your own. Avoid damaging furniture or walls, and report issues promptly to avoid costly repairs.

Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Clashing personalities: Not everyone will get along perfectly. Stay polite and focus on resolving conflicts through open communication.
• Uneven responsibilities: If one housemate slacks on cleaning or bill payments, it can cause frustration. Address this early by reinforcing the importance of shared duties.
• Overcrowding: Some HMOs may feel cramped if too many people share limited facilities. Check the property’s layout and amenities before signing a lease to ensure it suits your needs.

Is Shared House Living Right for You?

Living in an HMO is ideal if you’re looking to save money, enjoy a social environment, and don’t mind compromising on privacy. It’s a great option for working professionals, or those new to an area who want to build connections. However, if you value complete independence or prefer a quieter lifestyle, you might want to explore other renting options.

Before moving in, visit the property, meet potential housemates if possible, and ask about the house rules and landlord’s management style. We at Best Nest can help match you with a suitable HMO and provide ongoing support to ensure a smooth tenancy.

Final Thoughts

Living in a shared house is a rewarding experience that teaches you valuable life skills like communication, compromise, and responsibility. By respecting your housemates, following house rules, and staying proactive, you can create a positive and enjoyable living environment. If you’re ready to take the plunge, contact our letting agency to explore our range of HMOs and find the perfect shared house for you!