definition
strict definition
communal housing
Group residential accommodation, often temporary or indefinite, with limited individual control over living arrangements.
Communal housing encompasses various sorts of places where people live as groups, even if divided into individual units. Living arrangements are generally on a temporary or indefinite basis.
The residents live within a collective arrangement. Separate units can be present without giving residents the full autonomy of independent homes.
Private homes are identified by independence and an expectation of privacy. The number of bedrooms alone does not determine which living arrangement applies.
More specific definitions
5 sub-definitions-
assisted living
Housing where the residents are collectively cared for by working supervisors. -
charitable housing
Living space supplied free or at greatly reduced cost as refuge for people in extreme need. -
dormitory
Group housing for persons related by their participation in an institution. -
fraternal housing
Communal residential space organized as a social club around shared interests, background, or compatibility. -
religious housing
Residences designated for clergy, monastics, or other people belonging to religious service or an order.