If you have ever moved into a house share, you most likely understand the excitement: new people, new freedom, and hopefully cheaper rent. Honestly, rent isn't the only thing that you are going to be paying for. There are bills, which can quickly add up if you are not careful.
So, how much should you really expect to pay for bills in a house share in the UK? Let’s see.
What counts as "bills"?
When you rent a room in a house share, "bills" usually means the costs for running the home comfortably, the things that keep the lights on and the Wi-Fi working.
Here's what's typically included
- Gas & Electricity
- Water
- Internet
- Council Tax
- TV Licence
Extras include: Streaming subscriptions, contents insurance, cleaning supplies, etc.
Some shared houses come with bills included that sounds great, but you should always check what exactly is covered before signing your tenancy agreement.
Average Monthly Cost Breakdown
1. Gas & Electricity
Energy costs have seen many fluctuations lately, especially after the variation in price caps.
If you live in a large house or use heating often, you should budget in the region of £60–£90 per person per month, depending on the season.
Smart meters can help you monitor your usage and split the bills more equitably between housemates.
2. Water Bills
Water generally is cheaper and more stable in price. In most cities, you'll pay £20–£30 per month depending on whether or not your property has a water meter.
Some landlords include water in the rent, so double-check before budgeting.
3. Internet & Wi-Fi
A solid broadband connection is essential for students, remote workers, and late-night Netflix binges.
The average broadband plan costs between £30–£40, but in a house-share of 3–4 people, that works out at £10–£15 each.
4.Council Tax
This is the one people often forget and it can be a big one.
Council tax does vary by location and the value band of your property, but as a rough estimate, for a shared house, it is between £1,600–£2,000 per annum.
However
One important thing is that full-time students do not have to pay council tax.
If everyone in the house is a student, you can apply for a full exemption.
In cases where only one person is a non-student, they usually get a 25% discount.
How to Save Money on Bills in a House Share
- Where possible, look for "bills included" rent.
- Split bills using apps.
- Be smart about using energy.
- Compare energy providers.
Final Thoughts
When moving into a house share, it's easy to focus on rent, but bills are the hidden half of your budget. If you're smart about energy use, pick a good broadband deal, and share costs fairly, then you can live in comfort without burning through your bank account.
