Different flat types for renting in London
π There are many different types of flats in London, here is the breakdown for renters new to the country.
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Searching for a flat to rent in London is equal parts exciting and daunting. Exciting as you're finding your own patch of the city, yet daunting at the same time due to how competitive flat hunting is. There are a variety of options available so it's essential to understand the different types of flats you may see during your search.
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What are the flat types?
Five flat types for renting in London include: terrace houses, converted flats, council flats, new build apartments, and houseboats. By understanding each type of house a little better, you'll be better prepared to make an informed decision when it comes to finding your ideal rental property in this vibrant city.
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Terrace houses π
Terrace flats are typically part of a row or block of connected properties, forming a distinct terrace structure. In London, most terrace houses contain 2-3 flats with a shared staircase and entrance area.Β There is usually a back garden attached to the terraced house that is always available to the ground floor flat but sometimes shared with the other flats.
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Pros
- Postcard picture London houses
- Usually has a garden or outdoor area
- Common and easy to find
Cons
- Colder in winter months
- Upstairs and/or downstairs neighbours
- Older and can have utility (eg. plumbing) issues
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Converted flats π
London's most unique living experiences, converted flats used to be something else but now provide accommodation. Converted flats could be anything, including former; factories, schools, pubs, football stadiums, hospitals and even churches.
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Pros
- Very hipster to live in a warehouse conversion
- Can be spacious and open
- Unique and different
Cons
- Not designed originally as a flat
- Lower in supply and harder to find
- Rarely includes an outdoor area
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Apartments π’
To help solve London's housing crisis, the city has been building upwards. Built as part of a complex or tower building, apartments can be found all over the city. Most of these apartments have been built over the last 10-15 years which means they are generally in good condition.
Pros
- Warm and well insulated in winter
- Newer condition means things work well
- Secure access with fobs and gates
Cons
- Generally more expensive
- Can be less spacious
- Outdoor area is usually a small balcony
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Ex-council flats π
Renting an ex-council house refers to renting a property that was previously owned or managed by a local council as part of their social housing stock. These properties are often made available to the private rental market after being sold or transferred to private landlords. While they might have less focus on design and aesthetics, they are well built and warm in winter.
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Pros
- Cheaper to rent
- Well built, well insulated and warm in winter
- Less demand from renters
Cons
- Less aesthetic
- Often part of a complex
- Rare to have outdoor space
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Houseboats β΄
One of the most unique and unconventional ways to live in London, the city has multiple canals that attach to the River Thames that are filled with house boats. If you don't mind living in a smaller space and have the know how to drive the boat when it needs to be moved, then joining the tightly knit houseboat community might be for you.
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Pros
- A unique living experience
- Outdoor space and decking
- Part of a houseboat community
Cons
- Significantly less space
- Often located alongside busy canals
- Additional admin looking after the boat
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