Student Housing Rights Guide
Specific rights for students renting from universities, private halls, or private landlords.
Students have the same basic tenancy rights as other renters, but there are some special considerations depending on where you live.
Private Rented Accommodation
- Same rights as any other private tenant
- Deposit protection rules apply
- Section 21 and Section 8 eviction rules apply
- Landlord must provide safety certificates
University Halls
If you live in university-managed accommodation:
- May not have full AST rights - check your contract
- Usually a licence not a tenancy
- University has different eviction procedures
- Deposits may be handled differently
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
- Usually operates as a licence
- Less tenant protection than AST
- Check what protections your contract offers
- May have accreditation schemes (ANUK, UUK)
Students renting a whole house or flat from a private landlord have full tenant rights. Don't let landlords tell you otherwise.
Official Sources
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