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House hunting and moving out of University accommodation

House hunting and moving out of University-managed accommodation can be a tough experience. It’s also a new chapter of independence, excitement and fun.

It can be hard to work out who to live with, when you’ve only recently met. You might not know what to look for in a contract or house viewing, and liaising with lettings agents or landlords may be a new experience. Trying to find an accommodation that suits all of your needs might be tricky, but don’t fret, we’re here to support you along the way!

Download or read our student housing guide below to take a look at our top tips! Don't forget, you can get a printed copy of this booklet too from your accommodation reception.

Moving into Private Accommodation? Here's what you need to know!

For many students, moving from university accommodation into the private rented sector is an exciting next step. Whether you're planning to live with friends in a shared house, rent a flat, or move into purpose-built student accommodation, it's important to understand both your rights as a renter and how to choose a property that's right for you.

Recent changes introduced through the Renters' Rights Act have strengthened protections for tenants in England and changed some of the rules around renting. At the same time, understanding a property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can help you make informed decisions about affordability, comfort and energy costs before signing a tenancy agreement.

What is the Renters' Rights Act? 📄

The Renters' Rights Act is one of the biggest changes to renting in England in recent years. The legislation aims to give tenants greater security, improve housing standards and create a fairer renting experience.

Depending on the type of accommodation you choose, the changes may mean: 

• Greater protection from unfair eviction.
• Stronger rights when reporting property issues or poor living conditions.
• A more transparent process for rent increases.
• Increased security and stability within your tenancy.

The rules can vary depending on the type of property and tenancy agreement you have, so it's worth taking the time to understand how the changes may affect you before entering into a contract.

You can find further information on:

• Government Guide to the Renters' Rights Act
• Generation Rent: How the Renters' Rights Act Affects Students
• Unipol Student Guide to the Renters' Rights Act

Why should I check the EPC Rating? 💡

When viewing a property, don't just focus on the location, rent or furnishings. It's also important to consider how energy-efficient the property is.

An EPC rates a property's energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The rating can give you a good indication of how much it may cost to heat and power the property throughout the year.

A property with a higher EPC rating is often warmer, more energy efficient and cheaper to run, which can make a significant difference to your monthly bills.

The EPC will also provide information about:

• Estimated energy costs
• The environmental impact of the property
• How energy-efficient the home is compared to similar properties
• Recommendations that could improve efficiency in the future.

Landlords are required to make EPC information available when marketing most rental properties, so don't be afraid to ask for a copy before you commit.

You can check the EPC rating of a property or learn more about EPCs through:

• Find an Energy Performance Certificate

Before you sign

Before signing any tenancy agreement, take the time to ask questions and review the contract carefully. Consider:

• What is the property's EPC rating?
• What utility costs should I expect?
• Is my deposit protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme?
• Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance?
• Are there any additional fees or charges?
• What notice period applies if I need to move out?

Remember, you should never feel pressured into signing a contract immediately. Make sure you understand the terms and seek advice if anything is unclear.

Choosing where to live is about more than just finding a room. Understanding your rights as a tenant and checking key information, such as the EPC rating, can help you find accommodation that is safe, comfortable and affordable throughout your studies.