A relatively low number of people used to go to university in the UK.
That has changed over time.
Exact numbers are hard to find, but figures for first-class degrees awarded over the years are:
- 1920: 4,357
- 1970: 51,189
- 2024: 465,240
Students create an increased need for accommodation.
Read on to learn more about how to rent to students and related factors to consider.
Should I rent a room to students?
In some circumstances, renting a room to students is a great idea.
If your property is in a university town, the demand could be high. You also know that they’ll be willing to sign a one-year contract.
You must comply with HMO regulations when you go down this route.
If you don’t want to, or it’s too expensive, then renting the entire property to just one family could be preferable.
You should also consider the wide range of students. Some are extremely well-behaved and will look after your home. Others might be problem tenants.
So, a thorough vetting process is key!
Can I be forced to rent a room to students?
No, you can’t be forced to rent to students in the UK.
If you choose not to leave a room out to this demographic, it’s your right.
In some cases, the landlord may feel pressured to do this. This could be because of the vast local population of students.
The local government may also offer incentive schemes for landlords who choose this route.
Advantages of renting a room to students
Short term contracts
Students usually want to rent your property for one year only. This can be beneficial if you don’t want to agree to a deal for longer.
Higher demand in certain areas
In university towns and cities, the demand from students is very high.
Each year, there are thousands of new students entering the area.
This means there’s unlikely to be a shortage of people interested in your property.
Potential for guarantors
It’s common for landlords renting a room to students to ask for a guarantor.
This is usually an older person (parent) who agrees to pick up any payment failures in the student’s life. This gives you extra protection and peace of mind.
Disadvantages of renting a room to students
Increased likelihood of damage
Most landlords will agree that students are more likely to damage your property.
This is because they’re less skilled in using certain appliances and perhaps have more parties and gatherings.
Potential for anti-social behaviour
You run a higher risk of complaints being made by your neighbours.
This could be due to smoking, loud noise, or other types of anti-social behaviour. Under the influence of alcohol, these things are more likely.
Only likely to rent for one year
When renting a room to students, you typically do it for one year.
After that, they may want to switch properties, or they could’ve fallen out with some of their roommates.
You’ll often need to begin your search again the following year.
Does a property need to be furnished when renting to students?
This isn’t a legal requirement. But most students expect this. This is because they aren’t bringing any furniture with them.
Students will probably choose another house to rent if your property isn’t furnished.
You should prepare for the potential wear and tear of this furniture. You may be unable to carry it over from one year to the next.
In what ways is renting a room to students different?
You must comply with HMO regulations if several students live in your house. You may also need to get a special licence from the council.
Students expect any property they live in to be furnished. They won’t be bringing their furniture.
A guarantor could be needed on the rental payments. This usually involves the students’ parents agreeing to cover any missed payments.
You should also prepare for the downsides. Wear and tear, plus noise complaints, are both common.
There must be shared spaces, such as a kitchen and living room. And you’ll need someone to be on-call for fixing appliances and furniture.
Steps to rent a room to students
The steps for renting a room to students are not unlike those of any other type of renter.
Just a couple of extra steps give you protection and a higher likelihood of success.
You should get support from a qualified solicitor throughout this process.
Ensure your house meets HMO guidelines
If you’re renting out a room as part of an HMO, you’ll need to ensure it meets the guidelines.
These relate to room sizes and shared spaces. You may also need a designated HMO licence from the local council.
Furnish the property
Students expect a property that they rent to be furnished. It’s rare for them to bring their own beds or sofas.
You must be prepared for this and add furniture before advertising for renters.
It’s not always in your interest to choose the cheapest furniture possible.
This may break easily, wasting more time and money fixing it. Buying more expensive items could save you money in the long run.
Start advertising for student tenants
Once you’ve followed the above steps, it’s time to advertise for tenants. Find a lettings agency who can help you with this.
If you live in a university town, plenty should meet your criteria.
You may even want to contact the university directly to inform them of your property.
Thoroughly screen all applicants
Don’t accept student tenants into your home without vetting them first. Your letting agency could help with this.
Find out their income, past landlords’ references (applicable for third-year and postgraduate students only), what they study, and more.
You should also meet them and see what you think about their likely behaviour.
Consider a guarantor
Consider a guarantor if you feel nervous about letting out to students.
You’ll need to reflect this in your tenancy agreement. Please speak to your students about this and get advice from a solicitor and estate agent.
Draft a comprehensive tenancy agreement and get it signed
Once all the above steps are completed, the last thing to do is create a tenancy agreement.
You should get a qualified solicitor to support you with this. They can ensure that nothing is forgotten, and you cover all possible eventualities.
Then, when the contract is signed, it’s time to set a move-in date for your students. You’re officially a landlord for students – good luck!
