Room and Accommodation Checklist
9 min read Checklist Updated 2026-03-13
Setting Your Student Accommodation Budget
Your maintenance loan rarely covers rent and living costs combined. Before you look at any properties, you must know exactly how much you can afford to spend each month. According to a 2024 report by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), the average annual rent in London now exceeds the maximum maintenance loan, leaving many students with a severe funding gap. Students outside London face similar pressures, with average monthly rents reaching £562 across the UK (NatWest, 2025).
You need to account for hidden costs like utility bills, internet, and contents insurance. If you rent a private house rather than university halls, these extras usually fall on you. Many letting agents advertise rent per week, which makes the cost look smaller. Multiply the weekly rent by 52, then divide by 12 to find your true monthly cost. Failing to calculate this correctly will leave you unable to afford groceries by the end of the term.
Choosing the Right Type of Student Housing
First-year students usually live in university-owned halls, while returning students often move into private houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) or private purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). Each option offers different contract lengths, upfront costs, and social environments. University halls provide a ready-made social life and include all bills, but they offer less privacy and enforce strict rules on noise.
University halls usually offer 40-week contracts, whereas private landlords typically demand 51-week or 52-week commitments.
Private HMOs are often cheaper per week but require you to manage your own utility bills and broadband contracts. Private halls offer luxury perks like on-site gyms and cinemas, but they are the most expensive option on the market. Compare the main options before you start booking viewings. You can find more detailed advice in our student housing section.
| Accommodation Type | Average Contract Length | Bills Included? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Halls | 40 weeks | Yes | First-year students wanting convenience |
| Private Halls (PBSA) | 51 weeks | Yes | Students wanting modern facilities |
| Private Shared House (HMO) | 52 weeks | Usually No | Groups of friends wanting independence |
Viewing University Rooms and Private Halls
Never sign a contract for a private house without viewing it in person. Photos often hide structural issues, damp, or poor maintenance. The National Union of Students (NUS) reported in 2024 that 48% of student renters experienced mould or mildew in their properties. Letting agents will show you the property at its best, so you must look closely for hidden problems.
High-pressure sales tactics are common. Do not let letting agents rush you into paying a holding deposit before you have inspected the property thoroughly.
Take your time during the viewing. Check the water pressure, look for signs of pests, and test the mobile phone signal in every bedroom. If the current tenants are home, ask them directly about their experience with the landlord. They will tell you if the boiler breaks down frequently or if the landlord ignores repair requests.
Checking the Tenancy Agreement and Guarantor Rules
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding document. Once you sign it, you are liable for the rent for the entire contract duration, unless the contract includes a break clause. Read every page carefully. Do not assume standard contracts are fair. Many contain restrictive clauses about overnight guests, decorating, or garden maintenance.
Most private landlords and PBSA providers require a UK-based guarantor. This is usually a parent or guardian who agrees to pay your rent if you default. If you are an international student or cannot provide a UK guarantor, landlords may ask for up to six months of rent in advance.
If you rent a house with friends, you will likely sign a joint tenancy agreement. This creates joint and several liability. If one housemate drops out of university and stops paying rent, the landlord can legally demand the missing money from you or your guarantor.
Managing Your Student Rent Deposit and Fees
Landlords usually require a security deposit before you move in. By law, this cannot exceed five weeks of rent. They must place your money in a government-backed tenancy deposit protection scheme within 30 days of receiving it. They must also send you the prescribed information detailing where your money is held.
Always ask for the deposit protection certificate. If the landlord fails to protect your deposit, you can claim compensation through the courts.
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords cannot charge you for reference checks, inventory creation, or administrative setup. You may only be asked to pay rent, a refundable tenancy deposit, and a holding deposit. The holding deposit takes the property off the market while they run reference checks. This is capped at one week of rent and goes towards your first month of payment. If you decide to split household costs with flatmates, use a bills splitter tool to prevent arguments over who owes what.
Planning Your Moving-In Day Essentials
Moving into your new student home requires careful planning. You need to document the condition of the property the moment you arrive. Landlords use the initial inventory to justify deposit deductions when you move out. If an item is broken or a wall is marked when you arrive, you must record it immediately. Send your photos to the landlord on day one to create a digital paper trail.
Do not assume the property will be professionally cleaned. Bring basic cleaning supplies with you. You should also pack a box of immediate essentials so you do not have to unpack everything on your first night. If your property does not include Wi-Fi, you must set up a broadband contract weeks in advance. Use a broadband comparison tool to find a cheap 12-month student deal.
Secure your student accommodation early and keep all your documents in one place to prevent disputes with your landlord later in the year. For more guides on managing your student loan, dealing with letting agents, and finding part-time work, explore the rest of the resources available on thegrads.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start looking for student accommodation?
Start researching your options in November or December of your first year if you want to secure a private house for your second year. First-year students applying for university halls should apply as soon as they receive their university offer. Delaying your search limits your choices and often leaves you with more expensive options.
Do students have to pay council tax in the UK?
Full-time students are entirely exempt from paying council tax. If you live in a property where everyone is a full-time student, you must apply for an exemption through your local council’s website. If you live with a non-student, the household will receive a council tax bill, but it will be subject to a 25% discount.
What happens if I cannot find a UK guarantor?
If you cannot provide a UK-based guarantor, landlords typically ask for three to six months of rent in advance. Alternatively, you can use a private guarantor service, which acts as your guarantor for a fee. Some universities also run their own guarantor schemes for international students and care leavers, so check with your student union.
How do I get my student rent deposit back?
To get your full deposit back, you must leave the property clean, remove all rubbish, and ensure there is no damage beyond fair wear and tear. Request the return of your deposit in writing on the day your tenancy ends. If the landlord proposes unfair deductions, you can dispute them for free through your tenancy deposit protection scheme.