A Helpful Housemate is a lodger who is happy to offer a few hours of support a week to a Host in exchange for paying lower-than-market rent. The Helpful Housemates service is offered through ‘Unity Living’, the sister company to Community Interest Company, Share and Care Homeshare. Helpful Housemates offers the peace of mind of finding a lodger happy to help out occasionally.

In an arrangement, theHousemate agrees to check in with their Host from time-to-time, offering a little light help when needed. This might mean lending a hand with the occasional odd-job around the house such as changing a light bulb, help with grocery shopping, or providing technical support with the computer or phone – a friendly face, who is happy to step in to give ad-hoc support, for no more than 3 hours per week.  The help should not feel prescriptive or everyday.

Because Housemates are paying some rent to their Host they are free to come and go as they please, and do not have to commit to sleeping in their property for a set number of nights (although as a courtesy they should let their Host know if they are going to be away overnight/on holiday so they don’t worry).

Hosts are in their 60s to late 70s and have a spare bedroom in their home. Some want help finding a vetted lodger, without having to navigate the process all on their own; for others they like the idea giving someone else an affordable home.

The current economic climate, coupled with the government’s Rent-a-Room incentive (of a tax-free rental income of up to £7500/year) makes a Helpful Housemate a very attractive option.

The Helpful Housemates team handle the search, make sure candidates are vetted and suitable, whilst also remaining on hand to support the Host if any issues arise. 

We make the process of finding a lodger in the UK simple!

Helpful Housemates is available in London and other cities, and towns across the UK.

Unity Living Limited sub-brand Helpful Housemates | Registered in England & Wales. Company No: 11876899 | Registered Address: 265-269 Kingston Rd, London SW19 3NW | Member of Property Redress Scheme No: PRS017959