What is shared housing?
Shared housing is a living arrangement where several people, typically not related, live together and share the kitchen, bathroom, and common spaces, while each having their own private bedroom. In Danish it's called delebolig.
In Denmark, the term covers several forms:
- Kollektiv (co-living): a larger housing community (4+ people) with a strong focus on shared meals, house meetings, and often shared finances.
- Fælleslejlighed (flat share): two or more roommates share a regular flat, usually with separate finances and independent lives.
- Klubværelse (room rental): you rent a single room in a larger flat or house, often with access to a shared kitchen and bathroom.
Why choose shared housing?
- Lower costs. You split rent, internet, heat, and electricity. In Copenhagen the difference is significant: a room in shared housing in Indre By averages around DKK 7,186/mo in 2025 (KBH-Bolig), while a small 1-2 room apartment alone typically costs DKK 12,000-18,000+/mo incl. utilities.
- Built-in social network. Especially if you're new to the city or a student, shared housing is a fast way to meet people.
- Flexibility. Room rentals often have shorter notice periods than regular flats.
What to watch for
- Who is liable for the rent? Are you on the lease alone? Are you jointly liable? It matters a lot if a roommate moves out suddenly.
- House rules. Are they written down? How do you handle cleaning, guests, and shared bills?
- Legal limits. If you rent a room, the Danish Rent Act still applies. You have the same fundamental rights as in any rental.
Related
- Roommate: the person you share the housing with.
- Deposit: the prepaid amount you put down as security.
ROO:ME helps you find the right people to share a home with. Join early access →