Different sharing situations — and how HAP applies
You have your own tenancy agreement for a room or unit
If you're renting directly from a landlord and have your own tenancy agreement — even for a single room — you can apply for HAP. The HAP limit applies to your portion of the rent only.
You share a house with others, each with separate agreements
Each tenant has their own agreement with the landlord. HAP covers your rent only — not the other tenants' rent. Each person applies separately.
You share a lease with others (joint tenancy)
In a joint tenancy, all tenants are named on one lease. HAP can sometimes apply to joint tenancies, but it's more complex. Contact your council's HAP section to discuss your specific situation.
You rent a room from a homeowner living there (Rent a Room)
If you rent a room in a house where the owner also lives, this falls under the Rent a Room scheme. HAP cannot be used in this situation. You need a separate tenancy to qualify.
What rent amount to declare
If you share a property, only declare your portion of the rent — not the total rent for the whole house. Your HAP limit is based on your household size, not the total property rent.
Related HAP guides
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