Starting a flatshare: The practical guide for a successful move-in

While this way of living is certainly on the rise, starting a flatshare and understanding its ins and outs is not always obvious. Flatsharing is also a true human adventure, often enriching, that you share with friends or other people, allowing you to live a significant personal experience. Beyond administrative questions (guarantor, APL, guarantee act, lease signature, private areas...), this lifestyle raises major logistical questions. Flatsharing with friends might seem like a good idea to share costs and enjoy convivial moments, but it is essential to clearly define everyone's expectations to preserve harmony and avoid misunderstandings. How do you find an apartment if you already have your team composed of different people (friends, couples, strangers)? In which city should you settle? Flatsharing: how do you find partners if you already have the accommodation? To enlighten you, we have put together this complete guide.

How to find an apartment for a flatshare?

Today, this type of housing is no longer reserved for students alone. Employees, freelancers, and seniors are all being won over. But how do you start an effective flatshare when you have the team but not the roof? Start by evaluating your needs: number of flatmates (to define the number of rooms), choice of neighborhood, and type of rental (furnished or unfurnished). Once these points are set, monitor listings or use our platform for a 100% digital process. Be aware that some landlords still hesitate. The landlord may require a standard contract compliant with legislation, which differs depending on whether the accommodation is rented empty or furnished. To convince them, present a rock-solid file. In a traditional agency, each flatmate and guarantor must provide payslips, tax notices, and employment contracts. At Colonies, everything is simplified: an ID and a net income of 2.5 times the rent are enough to launch your project and start a flatshare without stress. In cities like Paris, Lille, Lyon, Bordeaux, or Montpellier, located in high-demand zones, the landlord must respect rent caps, and the majority of owners impose a solidarity clause in the flatshare contract. Establishing a clear organization from the start of the search is essential to guarantee harmonious cohabitation.

How to find flatmates if you already have accommodation?

Do you have the apartment but not the partners yet? This situation requires vigilance to guarantee your future well-being. Two options are available: moving in with loved ones or with strangers. It is also possible to welcome a new flatmate during the lease; in any case, it is essential to discuss everyone's expectations. Flatsharing can happen between friends, strangers, or as a couple: each group has its own specificities, notably regarding lease management and the distribution of space. To find your future allies, use your social networks or dedicated websites. Take the time to exchange messages or talk on the phone to check your chemistry. Human compatibility is the number one criterion.

What if you have neither an apartment nor flatmates?

Starting from scratch is common. If you are short on time, look for an existing flatshare where an outgoing tenant needs replacing. In the event of a flatmate's departure, they must notify the landlord by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt, respecting the notice period. The departure involves specific administrative steps, such as amending the lease or drafting an addendum, and can have financial consequences for the others, especially with a solidarity clause. The exit inventory must be carried out in the presence of all flatmates and the landlord. The security deposit is only returned after everyone has left and the keys are handed over; the outgoing flatmate must therefore arrange with the others to recover their share. If the lease contains a solidarity clause, the departing flatmate remains jointly liable for six months after their departure. This simplifies things as the owner can opt for a simple addendum. At Colonies, we support you from the search until moving in.

Student flatsharing and saving money

Flatsharing: how to reduce your budget in the city? It is an ideal solution, especially in metropolises like Paris or the Île-de-France region where rents are skyrocketing. Rather than isolating oneself in a tiny studio, flatsharing allows you to enjoy a large space while sharing rent and utilities (gas, electricity, internet). It is essential to organize cost management and be transparent about the budget. Opening a joint account is also recommended. Flatsharing constitutes the primary residence of the flatmates, allowing them to apply for housing aid (APL, ALS, ALF) for their share of the rent. Flatmates under 30 can also benefit from MOBILI-JEUNE aid.

The flatshare contract: what you need to know

The contract is the cornerstone of a successful life. It defines rights and duties. Two main options exist: the single lease (joint lease) and the individual lease. With a single lease, all flatmates sign the same contract, meaning everyone is committed to the entire accommodation. Conversely, an individual lease allows each person to sign a separate contract for their own room. One key point is the solidarity clause, which commits all flatmates to pay the full rent and charges if one person defaults. The security deposit is also essential, usually equivalent to one or two months' rent. Finally, the contract must specify the distribution of charges and responsibilities.

Does each tenant need insurance?

This is a recurring question. The law provides for two scenarios:

• Single lease: A single contract signed by all. One insurance policy is enough, but all occupants must be declared to the insurer.

• Individual leases: Each flatmate signs their own contract and must take out their own home insurance.

So, flatsharing: how to get started?

We hope this guide helps you see more clearly. If you are ready, check the listings on our site. Our properties are fully renovated, and all steps are simplified to the maximum. Our goal? To create the housing of tomorrow, fluid and accessible.