Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do homeshares last for?
Homeshares do not have a minimum contractual period. They can last as little or as long as you'd like it to. Staff from Homeshare Leicestershire will support both the homeowner and the homesharer to maintain harmony in the home and prepare for a happy ending when the homesharer vacates the property.
What does the matching process involve?
What ongoing support does Homeshare Leicestershire provide?
You can expect Homeshare Leicestershire to be there for you throughout your homeshare experience. We will support the homeshare with regular phone calls and visits to both the homesharer and the homeowner to ensure that both parties are getting the most out of the experience. We also welcome feedback and participation in the process by family members, friends and supporters of the sharers.
How much does Homeshare cost?
To prevent any misunderstanding or safeguarding issues, no money should change hands between the homesharer and the homeowner as both offer their resource or time for free. However, there are costs to ensure that all parties remain safe and supported throughout the experience therefore, a charge to Homeshare Leicestershire is payable when a homeshare is in situ. There are no upfront charges to either party.
Homeowners pay less than Homesharers as they are liable for any additional utility bill costs due to an additional person in the home. Therefore, the current fee for Homeowners is £10.00 a week and Homesharers is £50.00 a week.
Who pays for the utility bills?
Homeowners pay for the household bills. This includes electricity, gas, water, phone and broadband, TV licence and council tax. Should the homeowner and homesharer choose to share the cost of food and household products, Homeshare Leicestershire will support the sharers to set up safe and robust methods of financial transaction.
Can I Homeshare if I am in receipt of benefits?
Homeshare Leicestershire welcomes applications from homesharers in receipt of benefits, students and professionals, as long as the applicant can prove they have the means to pay for their accommodation charges. Please note that if the applicant is solely reliant on the housing element of benefits, this could be a barrier as DWP will only pay housing benefit on the presentation of a tenancy contract, something that homesharers do not have.
Do Homesharers have to be single?
You can apply to live in a homeshare if you are living in a relationship however we do not accept homesharers with children for a number of reasons.
Are Homesharers allowed to keep pets?
Of course! However, each homeowner and homesharer will have their own preference regarding the type and number of pets they will accept.
What kind of support does a Homesharer provide?
Each homeowner will have their own idea of what support they are looking to receive from their homesharer. Usually, homeowners are looking to be matched with someone to talk to and be around at night time as well as providing around 10 hours of support over the week. Your allocation of time might include tasks such as shopping, assistance with IT, simple DIY, gardening and visits outside the home.
Can I bring furniture with me?
Homeshare properties generally come furnished with a bed and storage units, however homeowners could consider accommodating homesharers furniture if required.
What happens if want the agreement to end?
When you want to end your homeshare, contact Homeshare Leicestershire and we’ll talk to your companion. We ask you to give one months notice so we can assist the homesharer to find alternative accommodation and ensure that the homeowner does not have a break in their required support. Do not worry about terminating your agreement, all shares come to an end and our role is to make sure that both parties leave the homeshare feeling that they have benefitted from the experience while it lasted.
If you have any other questions don't hesitate to get in touch!