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Shared housing : definitions

Shared housing is a very common and widely used term lately, but do you really know what it means? 

Shared accommodation is defined by article 8-1 of the law of July 6, 1989, as “the rental of the same dwelling by several tenants, constituting their main residence, and formalized by the conclusion of a single contract or several contracts between the tenants and the landlord“. To be in a shared dwelling, the occupants of the accommodation must be outside the owner’s family. However, they can have social links between them: brother, sister, grandparents, friends, … Everything is possible!

Shared housing is the best way to live in a community, in a large apartment or house, at an attractive price. Unlike coliving and renting a room in a private home, you will share absolutely all the spaces of your home with your roommates: kitchen, bathroom, living room, etc. except for your room which remains your private space. That’s the goal of it: to be united in all situations. And we mean all. Especially on the financial level. Indeed, a solidarity clause is applied in most cases. It allows, at the time of the departure of one of the roommates, that its share of rent is paid equitably between the remaining roommates. This will not be the case in coliving because each roommate is independent of the other occupants of the apartment. At Colivys, all our colivers have an individual lease that ensures that they only pay their share of the rent, even if one of them leaves.

Whether it’s for a coliving or a room rental, the tenants can claim state aid. Be careful, for subletting, make sure that it is legal and that the owner is well-informed.

So, are you still convinced? Check out our FAQ below to learn more about roommates.

How do you define shared housing?

If there is one word to define a shared housing, it is in “sharing”. The different occupants often know each other and live in common spaces. From a legal point of view, they have to be financially united. When one of them leaves the sha, the roommates share the remaining rent.

What is the difference between renting and sharing ?

Although renting and sharing seem to be similar, renting most often allows only one occupant or a group of occupants, such as a family or a couple.

What is the difference between a roommate and a cohabitant?

The major difference between a roommate and a cohabitant is the family relationship. A roommate lives with at least one other person without being in a relationship with that person. A cohabitant lives in the same dwelling as the person (s)he is in a relationship with.

What is coliving?

Coliving is living with several people in the same apartment. Unlike a shared accommodation, the occupants retain their independence, both physically and financially. They can also benefit from a range of services such as concierge services, events, etc. Find out more in our FAQ.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a shared apartment?

Living in a community needs to be thought through, but if you’re here, it means you’re ready to take the plunge. Be ready to experience beautiful moments of sharing and exchange, but be sure to keep your cool when it comes to housework! 😁

What is a roommate?

A roommate is first and foremost a member with whom you will share your daily life, someone who will perhaps turn into a friend. It is a person with whom you will live wonderful moments and others a little less beautiful. We can only advise you to live your community experience to the fullest!

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