What is an HMO?
HMO stands for House in Multiple Occupation. In England, this generally means a home shared by at least three people from more than one household, with shared facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom. A household can be a family or a couple; it does not simply mean everyone living at the same address.
For the room listings on this website, think of it as renting your own room in a shared home, rather than renting the whole building. “Co-living” describes the shared-living experience; it is not a guarantee of particular facilities or a separate type of tenancy.
What is yours, and what is shared?
Your bedroom is your personal space. Kitchens, dining areas and any other communal spaces are shared with your housemates. Some rooms have their own ensuite bathroom; others use a shared bathroom. Gardens, lounges, storage, furnishings and the number of housemates differ from home to home.
Sharing works best when everyone understands the expectations. Ask about cleaning, kitchen storage, guests, noise, smoking, pets and how to raise a concern. A communal cleaning service, where provided, does not replace tidying up after yourself.
Managed accommodation gives you a team to contact about your tenancy or maintenance. Confirm the contact arrangements and what support is included for the particular home before moving in. Existing residents can use our tenant support page.
Understand the full monthly cost
Start with the rent for the specific room, not just the lowest price shown for the property. A “from” price means rooms may have different rents. Check the payment frequency, deposit, move-in date and any payments due before you move.
Never assume all bills are included. Ask which utilities, council tax, internet or services are covered, whether usage limits apply and what you would pay separately. The listing and your written agreement should explain the arrangement.
Take this checklist to your viewing
- See the exact room. Confirm the room number, size, furniture, storage and bathroom arrangement. Property galleries may include other rooms.
- Explore the shared areas. Look at cooking facilities, fridge space, laundry, outdoor space and where you can store a bike, if needed.
- Understand the household. Ask how many people share the home and about the house rules and cleaning arrangements.
- Check the costs and paperwork. Ask for the rent, included bills, deposit arrangements, move-in requirements and agreement to review.
- Ask about safety and support. Find out how to report repairs, what to do in an emergency and where the fire-safety information is kept.
- Check the practicalities. Consider your commute, transport, parking, accessibility needs and internet requirements.
Common questions
Will I have my own bathroom?
Only if the room is specifically listed with an ensuite or private bathroom. Other rooms share facilities. Confirm this for the exact room you are considering.
Can I choose who I live with?
Ask the team about the current household and viewing arrangements. We cannot promise a particular mix of housemates, and it can change as residents move.
Are couples, students or pets accepted?
Eligibility and occupancy arrangements depend on the room and property. Tell the team what you need before booking a viewing; do not assume every room permits the same arrangements.
How do I apply?
Explore available rooms, review the full COHO listing and contact us to arrange a viewing. If you want to proceed, the team will explain the application, checks, paperwork and move-in steps for that room.
Do HMOs need a licence?
Some do. Mandatory licensing generally applies to larger HMOs, and local councils can have additional licensing schemes. Ask about the particular property rather than relying on its room count alone. Read GOV.UK’s HMO guidance (opens a new tab).
Ready to find your room?
You do not need to know all the terminology. Tell us your preferred area, budget, move-in date and any requirements, and ask us to explain anything that is unclear.
General introduction for renters in England, reviewed 22 September 2026. Always check the specific listing and agreement. Legal background: GOV.UK: houses in multiple occupation.