1. What is office sharing?
When a person or a company has unused office space that they wish to rent to another person or company in exchange for a regular payment.

2. What is the difference between a serviced office and office sharing?
Serviced office companies generally own the entire building in a prime business location and rent individual, closed spaces to companies and, sometimes, individuals. Other services such as mail rooms, conference rooms, phone lines, telephone answering services and reception areas are usually included (whether you need them or not).

With office sharing you do not have a separate room but have a desk in the same building as other employees of the company offering the space. Usually, all communal facilities are shared at no additional cost - this often include kitchen areas, mail services, cleaning, reception and, of course, toilets.

3. Does it cost anything to find an office on OfficeShare?
No. Searching, registering and advertising is completely free. The advertiser pays only if you agree to take their space.

4. What are the benefits of sharing an office?
Using serviced office space and renting office space by the square metre is costly and often includes unnecessary, expensive facilities and fixed additional overheads like office insurance and IT charges. By working in a shared office environment, you can dramatically cut these costs and still enjoy the benefits of a large office environment with a prestigious address that you might not be able to afford otherwise. Generally speaking, contracts are shorter and more flexible and you have no maintenance issues when you share an office compared to a service office.

Sharing an office with a business that complements yours can also help you expand your business network and pick up new clients. Plus working in a more sociable environment means you will undoubtedly make some new friends to gossip with around the coffee machine or to go for a drink with after work!

The biggest benefit, though, is the simple fact that you are working alongside other business people in a buzzy, working environment. Anyone who has ever worked in a small office on their own will tell you that it can be a lonely and, occasionally, dispiriting experience. Working from home has its own drawbacks (especially with children in the house!) and many people find getting dressed for work, taking a short trip to a convenient office and working in an active business environment much more productive, invigorating and inspiring.

5. What does a desk usually cost, and how long are contracts?
As you might expect, the cost depends on a number of factors, but our experience is that desks start at about £150 a month, although the centre of large cities could be more like £350 a month or higher. Apart from the location, the facilities offered and the number of desks you are taking can make a big difference.

Contracts too, vary, but tend to be shorter than serviced offices. Office sharing normally uses monthly rolling contracts although there can often be a deposit to pay and sometimes a company will ask for an initial minimum period of three or six months. Use any more onerous obligations that you might be prepared to take on to try and negotiate a cheaper deal - or try to reduce your rent by agreeing to a longer term.

6. What are the first things to think about before considering the right office for me?
Desks: Some offices have a large number of desks available and are happy to rent them out separately to unconnected business individuals. Others will only rent them to a company or group that will take all the desks in one go. This should be made clear on the OfficeShare website, but if more than one desk is offered and you just want one, do check with the advertiser.
Area: Is somewhere close to where you live more important than somewhere in the city centre? Is it worth paying the transport costs for a smart address? For some people, a short journey to work is preferable to somewhere very close as it not only helps them separate work and home but provides useful thinking time and some exercise each day.
Cost: That smart address will probably cost more than out of town, but you might find that you are more stimulated by the working environment of a buzzing city centre.
Facilities: Usually, many of the facilities used by others in the office are available for you to use at no extra cost, but it is essential that you check this. Often you will be expected to provide your own printer and phone - or pay an amount to use these facilities. Make a list of what is essential for you and ask whether it is included in the cost of the desk.
Company: Are the employees of the company likely to be your kind of people? Just as important, are there likely to be any opportunities to network and create new business opportunities.

7. What can I expect to get for my rent?
Usually, you will be provided with a desk, pedestal with a draw and space for a small amount of filing (check whether it is lockable), a chair and a broadband connection. You will be expected to bring your own laptop or PC and monitor. A phone line and handset is usually extra, but a mobile phone (or Skype) can mean you don't need this. Even if broadband is not available or is charged as an extra, a wireless internet dongle can be a cost-effective alternative.

The desk space(s) may be open plan, behind a dividing screen or in a separate, discrete area. Sometimes a group of desks might be arranged in a cross or alongside each other with a divider just higher than head height between the desks. It's up to you to decide what works best for you and whether you are happy with the arrangement.

You will probably be asked to sign a contract, which is a good thing as it will set out what you get for your rent and how much notice you, and they, need to give if you decide to leave or they want the desk back. Check any contract carefully to ensure that the agreed facilities and all charges are clearly stated.

8. What should I ask about when looking at an office
Here is a handy list:

• Are there any extra, unavoidable costs over and above the advertised rent (including VAT)?
• What is and isn't included in the rent?
  These are fairly standard: A desk, pedestal, chair, (ask to see exactly what you would get) broadband (check speed), cleaning and toilet facilities.
  These are usually not standard: Phone (if it is included, ask about a direct dial number and call charges), furniture, fax, printing, photocopying, PC and monitor.
• What about other facilities like extra storage, meeting rooms (if not included, you might negotiate this for a fee), kitchen (does it include free tea, coffee and water), IT support (unusual but worth asking about!)?
• What are the arrangements for someone popping in to see you (a passing client - or even your family)?
• Is there 24/7 access - do I get a pass or key to come and go as I like?
• What is the office security like (usually you will need to claim on your own insurance if your laptop or other items go missing)?
• Are there any special office regulations, policies or restrictions I should be aware of?
• Are there other companies you share the office with?
• What are local amenities like cafes, bars, shops, like?
• Is there any car parking or secure bike storage available?
• What are public transport links like (not just for you, but for visiting clients)?
• Is there a deposit, when are payments due and what is the preferred method of payment?
• What notice period is there - by either party?
• How quickly can I move in?