Fair Usage Policy.
Houseshare Heroes
Last updated: May 2025
What’s Included in Your Rent
Your monthly rent covers the following utilities:
- Gas
- Electricity
- Water
- Council Tax
- Broadband Wi-Fi (provided as a complimentary service)
In addition, we also complimentarily provide the following services at no extra charge:
- Communal area cleaning (where stated)
- Gardening
- Wi-Fi/internet
These complimentary services are not contractually included as part of your rent, may be subject to availability, and are offered at the discretion of the landlord.
Understanding Fair Usage
To ensure bills remain manageable and rent stays fair for everyone, we operate a Fair Usage Policy for energy usage (gas and electricity). This is based on:
- National usage averages from British Gas, EDF, Octopus, and Ofgem
- Property size and number of tenants
- Current market energy rates (adjusted periodically)
If energy use significantly exceeds fair levels, a supplementary charge will be shared among tenants who were in residence during the period of overuse.
Current Annual Fair Usage Thresholds
These are maximum allowances per property. Usage is calculated on a pro-rata basis for shorter tenancies.
Figures include estimated daily standing charges based on:
- Electricity: £0.538/day
- Gas: £0.327/day
- Electricity rate: £0.2703/kWh
- Gas rate: £0.0699/kWh
These figures will be reviewed and updated in line with market pricing changes.
Real Example of Overuse
In one 6-bedroom property:
- Electricity used: 8,888 kWh over 6 months
- Fair allowance: 4,500 kWh
- Excess: 4,388 kWh
- Cost to tenants: £1,186.97 total (£197.83 each)
Tips to Stay Within Fair Usage
• Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
• Avoid using portable heaters – they are prohibited due to excessive energy use and fire risk.
• Share appliances – avoid using individual fridges or microwaves in rooms unless approved.
• Set heating responsibly – thermostats should be between 18°C and 21.5°C.
• Use a high-tog duvet (13.5–15) in winter rather than relying on constant heating.
• Do not leave heating on 24/7. Check boiler controls and timers regularly.
• Report issues quickly – faulty boilers or radiators can waste significant energy.
• Speak up – if another housemate is overusing energy, let us know so we can address it discreetly.
• Draught excluders can help block gaps under doors; this may improve comfort and reduce heating use.
• Discuss preferences – talk with other tenants about reasonable temperatures and usage times.
Prohibited Items
- Fan or convection heaters
- Non-approved personal tumble dryers, washing machines, or large fridges
- Excessive decorative lighting (e.g. always-on LED strips)
- Air fryers in bedrooms
Use of these appliances may result in individual charges or may be considered in excess usage calculations.
Final Notes
We aim to keep rent inclusive and affordable while being fair to everyone. Following this policy ensures everyone shares responsibility for energy use in a shared living environment.
If you're unsure about any aspect of this policy or have concerns about your energy usage, feel free to contact us.
