Supported Living for Landlords: A Complete Guide for 2025

Freeman Real Estate
Aug 25
3 min read

Updated: Aug 26

Introduction: Why Supported Living Matters for Landlords

Supported living offers a unique opportunity for landlords to provide quality homes while securing long-term, reliable rental agreements. Unlike standard buy-to-let arrangements, supported living properties are used by care providers who support individuals with additional needs such as autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, or physical disabilities requiring adapted homes.

It is important to note this is not the same as Supported Exempt Accommodation, a separate model which will be covered in another blog post. Supported living typically serves individuals with greater care requirements and is managed professionally by registered providers and a care organisations who handle day-to-day care and housing management.

At Freeman Real Estate, we do more than simply connect private landlords with care providers across the Midlands. We stay involved throughout the entire process, supporting both the landlord and the provider to ensure the tenancy runs smoothly. From setting up the lease to ongoing property management and communication with all parties, we act as a long-term partner rather than just a middleman. Our goal is to give landlords peace of mind knowing that their property and tenancy are professionally managed from start to finish.

Learn more on our Landlord Services page : https://www.freemanrealestate.co.uk/landlords

What is Supported Living?

Supported living enables individuals with care needs to live independently while receiving professional support. Care providers manage the care packages, while landlords provide the homes on secure leases.

These homes are often required for people with:

Autism spectrum disorders
Learning disabilities
Mental health support needs
Physical disabilities requiring wheelchair access or adapted facilities

Properties are typically let on long-term leases, meaning stability for both the tenants and the landlord.

Types of Properties in Demand

Care providers require a variety of properties across the Midlands to meet different care and accommodation needs:

Flats: Ideal for individuals who require independence but with support close by.
Houses: Suitable for small groups with care requirements.
Bungalows: Perfect for residents needing accessible, single-level living due to physical disabilities or mobility challenges.
Self Contained HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation): Often used for shared supported living arrangements where several individuals live together, each with their own care package.

Landlords with properties that can be adapted, or those already meeting accessibility standards, are especially in demand.

Why Supported Living is a Strong Option for Landlords

Long-Term Secure Leases

Supported living placements are usually commissioned by local authorities and managed by professional care providers. This means properties are often let on multi-year agreements, reducing turnover and offering predictable income.

Internally Repairing or Fully Insured Leases

Leases are commonly offered on:

Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI) leases where the provider manages all maintenance, repairs, and insurance responsibilities.
Internally repairing leases where the provider maintains internal aspects while the landlord retains responsibility for the structure.

Both options offer a low-hassle alternative compared to standard private tenancies.

Growing Demand Across the Midlands

Freeman Real Estate works with care providers actively seeking properties in Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Derby, Sandwell, Staffordshire and surrounding areas. The demand spans flats, houses, bungalows, and HMOs suitable for supported living arrangements.

How the Process Works

Local Authorities Commission Care Packages: Care providers receive funding to support individuals with specific needs.
Care Providers Source Housing: Properties are secured either through registered providers or private landlords.
Freeman Real Estate Connects Landlords and Providers: Our team works with both the landlord and the care provider to structure the lease, coordinate property requirements, and support the tenancy throughout its duration. We remain the main point of contact for any issues including maintenance, ensuring the tenancy runs smoothly and the property is managed professionally from start to finish.

This model ensures landlords have long-term security while providing high quality maintained homes for individuals who need them most.

Why Work with Freeman Real Estate

Strong Network of Trusted Providers: We work with approved care providers and local authority contacts across the Midlands to ensure long-term, stable tenancies.
Full Support with Lease Structures: We help design agreements that work for both landlords and providers, including FRI and internally repairing leases.
Ongoing Tenancy & Property Support: Our team stays involved throughout the tenancy, coordinating with providers and landlords to keep everything running smoothly.
Compliance and Property Standards Guidance: We help landlords meet the right standards for supported living properties, including accessibility and safety requirements