Choosing to live off campus

Student housing varies widely, from purpose-built accommodation to private houses and flats. Private renting often offers more independence, but it also means organising bills, contracts and ongoing management yourself.

Purpose-built accommodation typically includes these elements in one place, while private housing requires more coordination across different providers. Understanding these differences helps you decide which option fits your preferences and expectations.

Before renting, check your tenancy type. If you will be living with your landlord, you may have a licence agreement instead of a tenancy.

The people you live with shape your day-to-day experience. In private housing, aligning routines, expectations and responsibilities becomes even more important, as there is less structured support than in managed accommodation.

Agreeing how to manage shared spaces, bills and communication early on helps avoid issues later. Clear expectations and cooperation are key to maintaining a positive living arrangement.

Understanding your monthly costs is essential when renting privately. While rent is usually the main expense, additional costs such as utilities, internet, transport and deposits can increase your overall spend.

Unlike on-campus accommodation, these costs are not always combined, so budgeting requires more planning and ongoing management.

Make confident financial decisions with expert guidance and practical tools. Get started with managing your finances.

Where you live affects your daily routine, especially travel time, convenience and access to campus facilities. Living further away may reduce rent but increase travel costs and time.

Finding suitable accommodation also involves researching landlords, arranging viewings and comparing options. The University recommends choosing properties with PAL-accredited landlords. This scheme, run by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, recognises landlords who meet legal responsibilities and provide well-managed homes.

Choosing a PAL-accredited property helps you rent with confidence and avoid common issues in the private sector. You can view available properties and accredited landlords.

Private renting involves making your own checks to avoid scams or unsuitable accommodation. Unlike university-managed accommodation, there is no single system in place, so taking time to verify details before committing helps reduce risk.

Common warning signs include:

• requests for payment before viewing;
• rent significantly lower than similar listings;
• pressure to make a quick decision;
• unverified landlords or unclear property details;
• unusual or untraceable payment methods;
• no written tenancy agreement;
• refusal to allow viewings or speak to current tenants;
• overcrowded or poorly described properties.

If something feels unclear or unusually good value, taking time to check the details first can help you avoid issues later.

Viewing off-campus accommodation gives you a clearer sense of how a property fits your needs, from its condition and layout to its location. Comparing a small number of options can help you make a more confident decision.

Private rentals can vary significantly, so having a clear understanding of what’s included and how the property is managed before signing a contract can help avoid issues later.

During a viewing, it can be useful to:

• view more than one property to compare quality, cost and location;
• check the condition and how well the property is maintained;
• understand what’s included in the rent, such as bills and internet;
• consider travel, safety and how the location fits your routine;
• ask about management, maintenance and response times for repairs;
• talk to current tenants where possible to understand their experience.

Taking notes or photos during viewings can help you compare options later and choose what works best for you.

Right to Rent checks confirm your eligibility to rent property in England and are carried out by landlords or letting agents before a tenancy begins.

You’ll usually need to provide identification, such as a passport or visa documentation. The process is standard, free of charge and typically completed before you move in.

Your landlord or letting agent will explain what documents are required and how the check will be carried out. Read more in the Right to Rent guidance.

A guarantor agrees to cover rent if payments cannot be made, and many landlords require this for student housing, particularly if you are renting for the first time.

Arranging a guarantor forms part of the private renting process, with requirements varying by property. If a UK-based guarantor isn’t available, some landlords may accept alternatives such as guarantor services.

Current legislation also limits how much rent can be requested upfront, helping make renting more manageable. Find out more in the Renters’ Rights Act overview for tenants.

A housing contract is legally binding, so it’s worth taking time to read through the details and feel clear about what you’re agreeing to before signing.

Key information includes rent, payment dates, deposit, contract length, included services and how to end the agreement. Agreements may be set up as a tenancy or a licence, which affects your rights, with tenancies generally offering more legal protection.

If you’d like to understand how different agreements work in more detail, the Citizens Advice guidance on tenancy agreements provides a helpful overview.

A deposit is paid at the start of your tenancy as security against unpaid rent or damage. When the property is returned in good condition and all payments are settled, it should be refunded in full.

For most tenancy agreements, deposits are capped and must be protected in a government‑approved scheme, such as the Deposit Protection Service (DPS), MyDeposits or the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS). This helps ensure your deposit is handled fairly and returned at the end of your tenancy.

Where a licence agreement is used, deposits may not be protected in the same way, so how your deposit is managed will depend on your specific agreement.

Taking a few simple steps during your tenancy can help support a smooth return process:

• keep a clear inventory of the property when you move in;
• take photos or videos to record its condition;
• report any issues early;
• maintain the property throughout your stay;
• make sure rent and bills are fully paid before moving out.

Keeping records from the start and staying on top of these details can help avoid disputes and make the process more straightforward when you leave.

Learn more about how deposit protection works.

Once you’ve signed your agreement, keeping your documents organised can make managing your tenancy much easier. Having clear records means you can quickly refer back to key details if needed. Keep copies of your tenancy or licence agreement, payment receipts, inventory, initial meter readings, utility bills and landlord contact details, along with any emergency contacts. Storing everything in one place helps you stay on top of things. Throughout your tenancy, continue to keep records of rent payments, updated meter readings and photos or videos of the property, especially at the start and if any issues come up. Having everything documented can make it easier to resolve queries and provide clear evidence if needed.

Managing your paperwork is an important part of renting privately. Keeping key documents organised makes it easier to track payments, manage your agreement and resolve issues if they arise.

Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, most upfront fees are banned, so charges such as referencing, administration, inventories and check-in or check-out fees are not typically allowed.

Only a small number of payments are permitted, including rent, a tenancy deposit, a holding deposit and limited additional charges in specific situations. Once a tenancy has started, extra costs may only apply where allowed by law, such as fees for early termination, replacing lost keys or late rent payments where these are clearly set out in your agreement.

If utilities are included in your rent, you may be charged for actual usage where this has been agreed in advance. Reviewing your contract helps you understand what charges apply and avoid unexpected costs.

Your agreement outlines what you’re responsible for during your tenancy, including paying rent, managing bills where required and maintaining the property.

Taking a proactive approach, such as reporting issues early and using the property responsibly, can help prevent problems and support a smoother experience.

By signing a tenancy agreement, you agree to:

• pay your rent on time;
• pay utilities and bills if they are not included in your rent;
• look after the property and keep it in a similar condition to when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear;
• check whether you’re responsible for outdoor areas such as a garden or driveway, where relevant;
• avoid causing damage, including damage caused by guests;
• use the property responsibly, including helping prevent issues such as damp or mould;
• be considerate to neighbours and behave responsibly within the local community.

If concerns arise about how the property is managed or maintained, seeking advice can help you understand your options and decide what to do next.

Landlords are responsible for keeping your home safe and in good repair. This includes maintaining the structure of the property, heating, plumbing and electrical systems, as well as carrying out safety checks such as gas inspections and providing working smoke alarms.

If you have a deposit, it should be protected in a government‑approved scheme, and you should be informed where it is held.

Landlords or agents are generally expected to give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property, with visits limited to valid reasons such as repairs or inspections. Entry without notice would usually only happen in an emergency.

You should be able to live in the property without unnecessary disturbance. If there are concerns about how the property is being managed or accessed, seeking advice can help you understand your options.

The Renters’ Rights Act 2024 introduces major changes to renting in England. It aims to make renting fairer, clearer and more secure for tenants by replacing most fixed‑term contracts with rolling monthly tenancies. This means you stay on a month‑to‑month basis and choose when to give notice if you want to move out. It also strengthens rules around evictions, rent increases and landlord behaviour. Find out more on the UK Government website.

As a full-time student, you’re usually exempt from paying council tax if everyone in your household is also a full-time student. Council tax exemption is not applied automatically, so an application must be made through your local council.

You may be asked to provide evidence, such as a student status or exemption letter, along with details of all household members. Applying early can help avoid incorrect charges or a backdated bill.

Further information is available in the council tax exemption guidance.

Being aware of basic safety in your home helps you feel more confident if something unexpected happens. Knowing where key controls are, such as the gas shut-off valve (if applicable) and the water stopcock, means you can respond more quickly in an emergency.

Good everyday habits also support a safer home, such as avoiding overloaded plug sockets, switching off electrical items when not in use and keeping exits clear. Having a clear idea of how to leave the property safely is also useful.

Your landlord is responsible for meeting fire and gas safety regulations, including carrying out gas safety checks and providing working alarms. At the same time, reporting concerns and using the property responsibly helps maintain a safe living environment.

Learn more about staying safe in your home in the student safety and crime prevention guidance.

Contents insurance can help if something unexpected happens. Belongings such as laptops, phones and bikes can be expensive to replace if they are lost, stolen or damaged, so having cover in place can offer additional reassurance.

Comparing student-friendly policies can help you find an option that suits your needs, as levels of cover can vary. Having insurance in place means you’re better prepared for accidents or theft and can help avoid unexpected costs during your studies.

Alongside insurance, simple everyday habits can also help protect your home and belongings. Keeping doors locked, closing windows when leaving rooms and avoiding leaving valuables on display can all reduce the risk of theft.

Living in a shared neighbourhood means being aware of the people around you. Everyday actions, such as managing noise, waste and parking, all contribute to how smoothly things run.

• noise – keep noise at a reasonable level, especially in the evenings;
• socialising – let neighbours know about gatherings and be mindful of timing;
• waste – follow local bin collection days and keep shared spaces clear;
• parking – avoid blocking access and be considerate of limited space;
• resolving issues – where possible, speak to neighbours first to resolve concerns.

The student code of conduct applies both on and off campus, so behaviour in the local community can form part of your wider university experience. Being considerate helps maintain a positive environment for everyone.

The University does not provide on-campus family accommodation, but PAL-accredited landlords may offer suitable private housing options for students with partners, children or dependants.

When looking for family accommodation, consider factors such as location, access to schools or childcare, transport links, budget, available space and local services. Checking the local council website can also help you understand what support and facilities are available in the area.

You may also need to confirm Right to Rent requirements and understand what documents are needed before moving in.

Family accommodation can take longer to secure, so starting your search early can give you more choice. For further guidance on finding private housing, budgeting and choosing a suitable area, see the Looking for somewhere to live off-campus section.

Housing issues can sometimes arise, even with careful planning. Living with others and adjusting to a new environment can occasionally lead to challenges with flatmates, neighbours, landlords or housing arrangements.

While the University can provide general guidance and signposting for private housing, it is not able to offer legal advice or become directly involved in disputes. Support is available to help you understand your options and find the right services if you need help resolving an issue.

If you’re experiencing difficulties with flatmates or neighbours, open and respectful communication is often a helpful first step. Setting clear expectations and addressing concerns early can help prevent situations from escalating.

If you need further support or guidance, you can email the Community team.

Ending a tenancy depends on your agreement, including notice periods and any shared responsibilities within your household. Managing your move involves coordinating with landlords and housemates, settling final payments and returning the property in good condition.

Giving notice

Your notice period is set out in your agreement, so checking this early helps you plan your move. In many cases, notice aligns with your rent payment cycle.

In shared housing, one person giving notice may affect the whole household, so agreeing plans early can help avoid disruption. Giving notice in writing, such as by email, creates a clear record.

End of tenancy checklist

Before leaving, a few key steps can help make the process smoother:

• clean the property thoroughly, including shared spaces;
• take photos of rooms as a record of the condition;
• remove belongings and clear any rubbish;
• take final meter readings where needed;
• notify utility providers and share a forwarding address;
• return all keys and confirm how and where to do this.

Getting your deposit back

Comparing the property against your original inventory helps you identify any issues before leaving. Keeping the property in good condition, settling rent and bills, and having clear records can reduce the chance of disputes.

If your deposit is held in a protection scheme, you should receive guidance on how it will be returned and what to do if there are any disagreements.

Ending a tenancy depends on your agreement, including notice periods and any shared responsibilities within the household.

Managing the process involves coordinating with landlords and housemates, settling final payments and ensuring the property is returned in good condition.