How to share a HomeKit home

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Sharing a HomeKit home allows multiple users to control smart home devices seamlessly. This can be accomplished through the Home app on iOS or iPadOS devices, or via macOS, ensuring that all participants can access and manage the home environment.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before sharing a HomeKit home, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An Apple device running iOS 10 or later, iPadOS, or macOS Sierra or later.
  • •The user must be an owner of the HomeKit home to share it.
  • •The invitee must have an Apple ID and be using an iOS, iPadOS, or macOS device.
  • •Ensure that all devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network or are accessible via iCloud.

Method 1: Sharing via the Home App on iOS/iPadOS

This method is ideal for users who primarily use iPhones or iPads to manage their HomeKit devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the 'Home' icon located in the top left corner.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Home Settings' from the menu.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Invite People' and enter the Apple ID email of the person you want to invite.
  • •Step 5: Tap 'Send Invite' to share access.
  • •Step 6: The invitee will receive a notification to accept the invitation. They must tap 'Accept' to gain access.
  • •Step 7: Verify successful sharing by checking the list of invited users in the 'Home Settings'.

For macOS

Follow these steps if you are using a Mac to share your HomeKit home.
  • •Step 1: Open the Home app on your Mac.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Home' in the top left corner.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Home Settings'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Invite People' and enter the Apple ID email of the invitee.
  • •Step 5: Click 'Send Invite'.
  • •Step 6: The invitee will need to accept the invitation on their device.

Method 2: Sharing via iCloud Settings

Use this method if you prefer managing sharing settings through iCloud.
  • •Step 1: Go to 'Settings' on your iPhone or iPad.
  • •Step 2: Tap on your name at the top to access Apple ID settings.
  • •Step 3: Select 'iCloud' and ensure 'Home' is toggled on.
  • •Step 4: Return to the Home app and follow the steps in Method 1 to invite users.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while sharing your HomeKit home, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Invitation Failed' - Solution: Ensure the invitee's Apple ID is correct and that they are using a compatible device.
  • •Issue: 'User Not Found' - Fix: Confirm that the invitee has an active Apple ID and is logged in on their device.
  • •Problem: 'Unable to Accept Invitation' - Workaround: Ask the invitee to check their iCloud settings and ensure they have Home enabled.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your HomeKit sharing experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + H - Quickly switch to the Home app on macOS.
  • •Command line: Use Terminal to manage HomeKit configurations (advanced users only).
  • •Hidden feature: Use Siri to manage HomeKit devices hands-free after sharing access.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal sharing, always keep your devices updated to the latest software version to ensure compatibility and access to new features.