Living in the private sector
Discover what private accommodation ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ city has to offer along with everything you need to know to ensure you make the right choice for you
ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ offers a wide range of private accommodation for students to choose from. Whether you are a new starter, postgraduate or returning student, there is something to suit all budgets and requirements.
Accommodation can be found both in the city centre and in popular student areas which are just a short distance to the University and city centre amenities. As a city centre campus, ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ is easily reached by a number of bus routes and next to the railway station, so commuting is also a convenient option.
Shared flats/houses
Renting a shared house with other students involves sharing a kitchen, living room (if included), bathroom and toilet. En suite rooms are rare in shared accommodation. Rents can appear good value, however ensure you take into consideration any additional costs and bills before committing.
Individual flats/houses
If you are moving to ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ to study with your family, this is probably the best choice for you. Letting agencies will be able to advise you on all of the local amenities (for example, local schools).
Studios
Studios are self-contained, flexible living spaces, used for living and sleeping in, that include your own bathroom facilities and a kitchenette. There are some student buildings that contain several studio flats if you are wanting to combine privacy with meeting other students.
Private-sector halls of residence
ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ has a selection of purpose-built student halls, which are owned and managed by companies specialising in the student market. Private halls will generally have in-house teams to assist with resident issues or queries and will offer a range of facilities. You may be living with students from other local universities and colleges.
Do you need a guarantor?
For private accommodation, some landlords may require students (particularly international students or UK students without a family guarantor such as a parent or guardian) to provide a guarantor as a condition of the housing contract.
The guarantor – a third-party individual or organisation – guarantees to pay the landlord any rent which the student fails to pay and the cost of any damage for which the student is responsible. Landlords generally insist that a guarantor is UK-based, or alternatively there’s the option to use a guarantor scheme.
There are several guarantor schemes available, including:
Please note: landlords or agents will normally have a preferred form of guarantor or guarantor service. You should always check with them to confirm which type of guarantor they accept – don't make assumptions.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPC)
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient a property is and is required for most privately rented homes in the UK. Properties are rated from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), based on features such as insulation, heating, lighting, windows, and overall construction.
A higher EPC rating generally means the property is more energy efficient, which can help reduce energy use and environmental impact.
At present, rental properties must usually have an EPC rating of at least E under current regulations, although these standards may change over time.
Why EPC ratings are important when choosing private accommodation
When looking for housing in the private sector, it’s important to consider not just location and cost, but also how energy efficient the property is. ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ highlights the need to check all aspects of a property - including potential additional costs - before committing.
EPC ratings can help you make a more informed decision by indicating:
Comfort: Properties with better ratings are typically easier to keep warm in winter and cool in warmer months.
Running costs: Energy-efficient homes may help keep utility bills lower, which is particularly important when bills are not included in the rent.
Legal standards: Landlords must meet minimum energy efficiency requirements before renting out a property.
Running costs: Energy-efficient homes may help keep utility bills lower, which is particularly important when bills are not included in the rent.
Legal standards: Landlords must meet minimum energy efficiency requirements before renting out a property.
Advice and guidance
The Accommodation Services support the residents of our University-managed halls. Any questions concerning your private accommodation (including booking, rents or your contract) would be the responsibility of your landlord or management company.
The University does not recommend any particular privately-owned halls of residence. However, properties which hold ANUK accreditation are part of our 'good practice' network. Although halls of residence are popular, individual rooms often become available so check back regularly.
The supports students with a wide range of accommodation issues such as contracts, the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, inventories, bills, council tax, gas safety and moving out. They also provide checklists of what to look for when you are viewing properties and the legal requirements landlords are expected to meet.
UPSU free tenancy agreement checking service: if you looking for your next student home and need a bit of help with the agreement before signing, UPSU can help you with checking the small print.
Beware of rental fraud and scams:
The Student Accommodation Code
We adhere to the which means that we go the extra mile to make sure that you get the best quality accommodation while you are with us. The Code is managed by an external group which inspects our halls to ensure that they are in tip-top condition.
Get in touch with Accommodation Services
Accommodation Services, ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾, Drake Circus, ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾, Devon, PL4 8AA
By appointment only / Phone lines open between 10:00–14:00, Monday – Friday
