Join the Co-op

Become part of a member-led community that turns empty properties into affordable homes

BDHC offers short-life housing in West London for people who can live independently and want to help manage their homes responsibly.

What Membership Means

Members don’t have tenancies — they hold licences to occupy properties the co-op manages on behalf of landlords. In return for affordable rent, members help keep homes in good condition and take part in the co-op’s activities.

How It Works

Here’s how we turn empty properties into affordable homes and opportunities for our members.

Apply

Submit your expression of interest using our online contact form. Our Membership Secretary will then contact you to begin your assessment.

Match

We place new members into suitable short-life homes as they become available.

Participate

Members participate in regular meetings, help with reporting and contribute to the governance of the co-op.

Who Can Apply

We work with people committed to creating stable, affordable housing through shared responsibility.

BDHC provides temporary, affordable accommodation through a private co-operative housing model. We are not a social housing provider, and joining the co-op does not guarantee long-term housing or rehousing. The criteria below outline who we can safely and appropriately accommodate.

We’re not a supported housing provider and can’t offer care or specialist support.

We welcome adults who:

can live independently and manage a household
are committed to community responsibility
can contribute time to co-op activities (approx 2–4 hrs/month)
are able to pay monthly rent and licence fees by standing order
are from diverse backgrounds

New members must be;

over 18 years old
able to prove they have the right to rent in the UK
single without dependents
on a low income
without priority needs
ineligible for the council housing register

Benefits of Membership

The practical advantages of joining BDHC

Affordable short term housing

Live affordably in good-quality homes while helping protect empty properties.

Connect with like minded people

Join a community of people who value cooperation and independence.

Skills in co-op property management

Gain hands-on experience maintaining homes and contributing to decisions.

Contribution to local social impact

Support community projects and positive use of under-used housing.

Responsibilities of Membership

Being part of the co-op means sharing responsibility — for our homes, for each other, and for the local community.

Keep your home safe, clean, and compliant
Pay your license fee on time
Take responsibility for council tax and utilities
Report repairs promptly
Participate in meetings
Follow co-op rules and policies
Leave the property clear and in good condition when your licence ends

What Our Members Say

Real voices from our community

I thought that it would be great to join a community of like-minded people helping each other, and the wider community, with the benefit of living in affordable accommodation in London.

Alex

Sound Engineer

I love where we live; it is vibrant, friendly and the community spirit is alive and well. I contribute to my community and offer resources wherever possible to residents.

Zoe

Charity Co-ordinator

I’m proud of the contribution our coop makes towards alleviating the housing crisis, by offering homes to those the co-operative model suits, providing genuinely affordable homes for people.

James

Retired Teacher

Apply to Join

Submit your Expression of Interest and we’ll be in touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

BDHC provides affordable, temporary homes for people who are able to live independently while contributing to a co-operative community. This FAQ section answers common questions about eligibility, responsibilities, how placements work and the support available to all Members.

Who are your Members?

Members are adults who can live independently and who choose to join the co-operative to manage their housing responsibly. Members are not tenants and do not hold tenancies.

Am I eligible to join the co-op?

Applicants must be aged 18 or over, able to live independently, and willing to take part in the responsibilities of co-operative membership. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee housing.

How do I apply?

Applications are made through our online form. Eligible applicants may be invited to an information meeting. Membership approval does not guarantee an immediate housing offer.

No. BDHC is not a registered provider of social housing. We operate as a private landlord using a fully mutual co-operative model. Membership does not grant social housing status, priority need, or any statutory rights to rehousing

Are Members tenants?

No. Fully mutual housing co-ops are exempt from issuing assured tenancies. Co-op Members are occupants and have only basic protection. Members are granted the ‘right to occupy’ by a sub-licence which denies exclusive possession or interest in the property. Members must adhere to the obligations of membership which includes giving vacant possession on request. The sub-licence can be terminated with a minimum month notice served using a notice to quit (NTQ).

Do Members pay rent?

Members pay an affordable licence fee, not traditional rent. This covers their occupation of the property and contributes to the running of the co-operative. Costs are significantly lower than private renting.

Do I need to provide a deposit?

BDHC aims to keep its housing accessible so no large deposit is required. However you will be responsible for the decoration of your property which can include installing flooring. Co-op properties come unfurnished without white goods.

What are my responsibilities as a Member?

Members must attend meetings, follow co-op rules, report repairs promptly, maintain the interior of their home, treat neighbours with respect, and contribute to the smooth running of the co-operative. Paying contributions on time is essential.

Who pays for the council tax and utilities on co-op properties?

Members pay council tax directly to the local authority. Members are liable for all bills and any costs incurred by occupation.

How long can I stay in a BDHC property?

Short-life housing by its very nature insecure. Length of stay varies depending on property availability, redevelopment timelines and movement within the co-op. Members are always given reasonable notice if a move or handback is required.

Can I choose my property?

BDHC has an allocation Policy to match Members to properties according to need. the Co-op operates a “One-time Offer Policy”, where a Member refuses a suitable property they will not be made another offer for 12 months.

Will BDHC rehouse me if I need to move?

No. BDHC is not obliged to rehouse Members under any circumstances, including disrepair, overcrowding, relationship breakdown or licence termination. We will give reasonable notice if a property must be returned.

What happens when the landlord wants the property back?

When a property is required back by the superior landlord, BDHC will give you reasonable notice. However, the co-op does not provide alternative accommodation. Members must make their own arrangements when a licence ends.

What happens if a Member breaks the rules?

BDHC has a clear process for resolving behavioural issues. If concerns arise, we may apply:

Support or intervention
Behavioural agreements
Probation
Expulsion as a last resort

All decisions made through the co-op’s governance structure are binding. Serious or repeated breaches may lead to removal

What support does BDHC provide?

Co-op officers offer support in maintaining your license and membership, which includes conflict resolution and guidance. Members receive help with repairs reporting and any issues that arise during their occupation. In instances where additional support is required, Co-op Officers will signpost you to external agencies.

Repairs & Safety FAQ's

The Co-op has a detailed Maintenance & Repairs Reporting Policy and procedure that explains Member and Landlord responsibilities. New Members will be supplied with a handbook.