Coworking desks in spare office or studio space

Home-based freelancers, remote workers and sole traders who want a quiet place to work a few days a week.

Monthly desk memberships and day passes, plus hourly rental of a small meeting corner if you have room.

• Friendly and trustworthy host
• Simple organising and booking systems
• Local networking and social media

• Landlord permission for subletting or sharing the space, and the terms of your lease
• Whether business rates or planning permission are affected, check with your council
• Insurance that covers visitors and their belongings, such as public liability
• Fire safety and safe access for people who are not your usual staff
• Noise, privacy and security when strangers share a space
• Whether rental income changes your tax position, check with HMRC or an accountant

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on the space, desks, Wi-Fi and furniture you need. Using space you already rent or own can help keep your costs lower.

Check you have landlord permission for subletting or sharing, and the terms of your lease. Also check with your council whether business rates or planning are affected, and check insurance for visitors, fire safety, and whether rental income changes your tax position.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on how many desks you let and what you charge. A small setup of around four to ten desks suits freelancers wanting a few days a week.