Renters slam tiny 'prison cell' studio flat advertised for 'ridiculous' price

22 September 2023 , 11:42

1108     0

The little home in north London has been compared to a "prison cell" (Image: Jam Press/OpenRent)

A home on the market for two people which is just 200 sq ft has been compared to a prison cell by unimpressed would-be renters.

The flat in Islington, north London, boasts a small skylight and a window covered by a makeshift blind for people to make the most of natural light. Despite the cramped conditions the landlord says they will allow two tenants to share the space and split the rent.

The listing has no mention of a kitchen in the property, only a sink and two cabinets. Anyone hoping to make dinner will have to make do with a metal wall and no obvious signs of an oven, hob or fridge. After a hard day’s work there is a double bed to rest on a few steps away and a tall desk to display belongings. There is also a small wardrobe next to the bed although it leaves minimal amount of floor space.

The studio flat has just a skylight to offer natural light (Jam Press/OpenRent)

The cramped home has a separate bathroom for tenants (Jam Press/OpenRent)

The small home, available through OpenRent, also has a separate bathroom which has space for a toilet, basin and small shower. Anyone interested in the little home will pay a £1,488.46 deposit to secure the bedsit and monthly rent will set the tenant back a staggering £1,290 per month. Bills are not included, but according to the listing, the gas bill is included in the rent. Tenants will also have to live in the apartment for at least a year.

One renter called Lena, joked: “Prison rooms are nicer than this and they’re free.” Another, named Sebastian, added: “The price is ridiculous.” Earlier this year a tiny studio flat has been listed on the rental market for a staggering £1,200 a month. Although it benefits from "hot water included", the property's shower and "private bathroom" are located outside the studio - a short walk along a corridor.

'Invisible' mirror home hits market for $18million – made entirely of glass

The home does come with a double bed - but unfortunately for prospective tenants this takes up the majority of the living space with the mattress just a few inches from the small kitchen area. Located in Crayford's Tuffnell Park, , the studio also features a sink, oven and microwave, but there is no room for a full-size fridge. Dining in is a possibility should tenants be content with a small table wedged between the mattress and the kitchen, though there is only room for one chair.

There's no space for a washing machine though occupants do have the opportunity to use a communal laundry on site. And they will have to make do with a wardrobe and set of drawers blocking the front entrance. Heating and hot water bills are included in the rental cost, however.

Antony Clements-Thrower