If you’re starting to think about where you’ll live next academic year, you may have heard that renters’ rights are changing. While this might sound a bit daunting, understanding the basics can actually help you feel more confident when searching for student accommodation.

Here’s a simple overview of what’s coming and what it could mean for you as a student renter.

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Why Are Renters’ Rights Changing?

The government is introducing reforms aimed at making renting fairer, safer and more secure for tenants. These changes are expected to affect much of the private rented sector — including student housing — although some details are still being finalised.

The key takeaway?
👉 The reforms are designed to improve standards and protections for renters.

What Could Change for Student Renters?

While the exact rules are still developing, here are some of the main areas that may affect students.

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🏠Tenancies

Traditional fixed-term tenancies may move towards more flexible arrangements in the future. This could change how long you commit to a property and how notice periods work.

What this means for you:

• You may have more flexibility
• It will be important to check tenancy terms carefully before signing

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💷 Rent and Rent Increases

There will be clearer rules around how rent is advertised and how increases are handled.

What this means for you:

• More transparency around rent
• Fewer unexpected changes during your tenancy

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🔧Property Standards

Landlords will continue to be responsible for keeping properties safe and in good condition, with stronger enforcement where standards aren’t met.

What this means for you:

• Better quality housing
• Clearer routes to raise concerns if something isn’t right

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⚖️ Fair Treatment

The reforms aim to improve fairness across the rental process and reduce poor practice.

What this means for you:

• Clearer rights
• More confidence when dealing with landlords

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What Hasn’t Changed?

Even with reforms on the way:

• You will still need to read your tenancy agreement carefully
• You should only rent from trusted, reputable landlords
• Asking questions before signing is always encouraged
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That’s where using a university-backed platform like Studentpad can really help.

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How Studentpad Supports You

Studentpad helps you navigate the student housing market by:

• Advertising properties from trusted local landlords
• Providing clear property information upfront
• Helping you plan early, compare options and set alerts
• Supporting safer renting and good practice

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Using Studentpad doesn’t just help you find a place — it helps you feel more informed and confident throughout the process.

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What Should You Do Now?

If you’re planning for next year:

1. Start early — even just browsing helps
2. Create a free Studentpad account
3. Set up property alerts so you don’t miss new listings
4. Look for housemates if you’re planning to live with others
5. Take time to understand your rights before signing anything

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Being prepared puts you in the strongest position — whatever changes come next.

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Here are some useful Links:

https://www.unipol.org.uk/advice/students/renters-rights-act-2025/

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/guide-to-the-renters-reform-bill?

https://housing.london.ac.uk/get-advice/renters-rights-bill-faq

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If you are still looking for your Student and Post Grad accommodation head to the Studentpad search tools to find your university's accommodation search site to help you find your new student accommodation, then get searching for your off campus shared house, room, or apartment.

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Post by Laura Walker (Marketing and Research Manager)