Summary
Renting student accommodation for the first time can be exciting. But also, overwhelming. Between paperwork, deposits, and hidden charges, it’s easy to make costly mistakes that affect your living experience abroad. Whether you’re a first-year student or relocating mid-course, being aware of common renting pitfalls can help you save money, avoid scams, and find a home that truly suits your needs. In this guide, we’ve covered the top 10 mistakes international students often make when renting housing for university life, along with tips to avoid them.
Introduction
Finding the perfect place to live while studying abroad isn’t just about location or price. It’s about long-term comfort, legal safety, and budgeting wisely. Unfortunately, many international students dive into rentals without understanding tenancy laws, hidden costs, or their rights as renters. The pressure to book a room quickly, especially during peak admission seasons, often leads to rushed decisions.
In cities like Leicester, which host thousands of international students every year, choosing the wrong accommodation can impact your entire student experience. From poor-quality housing to long commutes and unresponsive landlords, the risks are real, but preventable.
Let’s walk through the 10 most common mistakes students make when renting their first accommodation.
Why Is It Important to Research the Area First?
Most students focus solely on rent but forget to explore the neighbourhood, which often affects safety, convenience, and cost of living.
- You might find cheaper rent far from campus, but spend more on daily transport.
- Some areas may not be well-lit or safe, especially for late-night travel.
- Check access to supermarkets, pharmacies, and cafes. These impact your daily lifestyle.
- Proximity to campus libraries or labs is vital for late-night study sessions.
- Student-friendly areas often have better security, community support, and Wi-Fi infrastructure.
What Happens If You Don’t View Property?
Skipping property viewing is one of the riskiest mistakes. Photos online can be outdated, edited, or misleading.
- Virtual or in-person viewings help assess cleanliness, lighting, and room size.
- You can check the condition of common areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entrances.
- It’s easier to spot issues like mould, pests, or broken appliances during a live tour.
- A video tour also shows you the street and building entry, which matters for safety.
- If you’re abroad and can’t visit, request a live video call with a verified agent.
Why Should You Always Read the Tenancy Agreement?
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract. Ignoring the fine print can cost you more than just your deposit.
- Check if the agreement includes utility bills, Wi-Fi, or maintenance costs.
- Look for clauses on early termination and replacement tenants.
- Some contracts automatically renew. Know your exit terms in advance.
- Ensure it states your rights to repairs, privacy, and rent increase limits.
- Never sign anything under pressure. Take your time and ask for clarification.
What If You Forget to Check What’s Included in the Rent?
Rent can either be all-inclusive or exclusive of essential bills. Not knowing which one can wreck your monthly budget.
- Ask if rent includes electricity, water, heating, and broadband.
- If not, ask for estimates from current tenants or the landlord.
- Some accommodations provide cleaning services or contents insurance. Check what’s covered.
- Clarify payment frequency. Weekly, monthly, or term-wise to avoid late fees.
- Confirm deposit protection: it should be secured in a government-backed scheme.
Why Should You Never Pay Large Sums Without a Contract?
Some students lose hundreds of pounds by transferring money without written proof or secure platforms.
- Always use official booking portals or verified agents.
- Avoid cash payments or sending money via friends.
- You must receive a written confirmation of your deposit and rent payment.
- Use platforms that offer fraud protection or third-party mediators.
- If unsure, ask your university’s housing office for help or verification.
What Happens If You Don’t Know Your Rights as a Tenant?
International students often don’t realise they have legal protections under UK housing law.
- You have the right to live in a safe, habitable space with access to repairs.
- Your landlord must provide 24 hours’ notice before entering your room.
- You can challenge unfair fees or withheld deposits through government schemes.
- Landlords are responsible for certain repairs; know which ones.
- If you face discrimination or unsafe conditions, you can report it to local councils or university support teams.
Why Should You Talk to Past or Current Tenants?
No one can give you a clearer picture than someone who’s lived there before.
- Ask about noise levels, landlord responsiveness, and the actual cost of living there.
- Inquire if the facilities work as promised (e.g., heating, washing machines, Wi-Fi).
- Past tenants can reveal hidden issues like pest problems or broken amenities.
- Social media groups or student housing forums are great for these insights.
- If a landlord refuses to connect you with previous tenants, that’s a red flag.
What If You Ignore the Commute Factor?
Many students prioritise cheaper rent but end up spending hours commuting every day.
- Living far from campus can lead to missed lectures or added transport costs.
- You’ll be less likely to join study groups or social events if travel is a hassle.
- Consider whether your accommodation is near train/bus stations with reliable service.
- Calculate your weekly travel cost before finalising the place.
- During winter or exam periods, a long commute can become physically draining.
Why Should You Not Overlook Roommates or Shared Space Rules?
Even the nicest flat can turn into a nightmare if you’re clashing with housemates.
- Ask about the number of people sharing kitchen/bathroom facilities.
- Clarify cleaning schedules, guest policies, and quiet hours before moving in.
- Consider the cultural mix. Some people may prefer quiet study environments; others may host frequent gatherings.
- If you’re uncomfortable with the current tenant mix, look for single-occupancy options.
- Discuss how bills are split (if not included in rent) to avoid misunderstandings.
What If You Don’t Compare Enough Options?
The rush to find housing makes many students settle for the first option they see.
- Compare at least 3–5 properties before choosing.
- Balance cost, commute, facilities, and support services available.
- Check if the property is listed with platforms that verify listings and offer guidance.
- Use your university’s accommodation office to cross-check property legitimacy.
- For example, if you’re looking for Student Accommodation Leicester, exploring both university listings and trusted third-party providers gives you more control over budget and facilities.
How Can You Avoid These Mistakes?
Avoiding these pitfalls is easier than you think if you stay proactive and informed.
- Always verify listings through trusted platforms or your university.
- Request written agreements and receipts for all transactions.
- Ask questions. If a deal feels too good to be true, it probably is.
- Plan early. Starting your search 2–3 months before your intake date helps you avoid a last-minute rush and limited options.
Conclusion
Your accommodation is more than just a room. It’s the space where you’ll study, relax, and build lifelong memories. By avoiding these 10 costly mistakes, you’ll save time, money, and emotional energy, making your study abroad experience smoother and more enjoyable. Always remember, being informed is the first step to being protected.
FAQs
Ques 1: How early should I book my student accommodation before the semester starts?
Ans: It’s best to start your search at least 2–3 months before your course begins. Popular properties fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Ques 2: Is it safe to pay rent online to private landlords?
Ans: Yes, but only if the platform or landlord is verified. Avoid paying via untraceable methods like cash apps or third-party bank transfers.
Ques 3: What documents do I need to rent student housing in the UK?
Ans: Most accommodations require a valid passport, visa, proof of university admission, and sometimes a guarantor form or reference letter.
Ques 4: Can I change accommodation mid-term if I’m not happy?
Ans: Yes, but it depends on your contract terms. Early termination may involve notice periods or replacement of the tenant requirements.
Ques 5: Do I need to pay council tax as an international student?
Ans: Full-time students are usually exempt from council tax, but you may need to apply for an exemption through your local council.
