There are different places students might live during their time at university.
The most common choices are:
The type of accommodation a student chooses, depends on their situation. The following information is for those who are considering renting in the private sector, either directly or through an agency.
Before you start looking
The most important message is don't sign too early. Each year, letting agents and some landlords begin encouraging students to sign tenancy agreements. You might be told that you'll miss out if you don't sign for a house early, however there is a plentiful supply of student accommodation in Worcester.
For guidance on what to consider before you start looking for somewhere to live, read our ‘Before you start looking’ guide.
Finding people to live with
You can Join our official Facebook Housemate Finder Page (only available to current students) to advertise your properties/spare rooms and find potential housemates.
Where do I look for accommodation?
You can find accommodation either by making an appointment with an agency or by searching online. The University of Worcester has their own property search website called Student Pad. Information (including passwords) for accessing StudentPad are released annually in February. To request the password for the property search please contact the university by phone 01905 855137 or email j.bick@worc.ac.uk
Please note that the University of Worcester do not accredit or endorse landlords. Student pad is a search engine only.
Not all letting agents have complaints policies to report landlords who do not follow the rules of the tenancy. Book an advisor appointment to find out more about different types of tenancies and what they mean.
I’ve found a property I like. What next?
Once you have found a property you like, you should contact the landlord and book a viewing. Try to view the property face to face (not virtual), during daylight hours, and never let anyone view a property on your behalf. It is important that you find out as much information about the property during your visit. To help you, check out our guide ‘Viewing a potential rental property’.
The landlord said I must pay a deposit into a new scheme. What does this mean?
All deposits taken by landlords and letting agents for Assured Shorthold Tenancies in England and Wales, must be protected by a tenancy deposit protection scheme, this includes students letting rooms or properties during their studies.
The schemes allow tenants to get all or part of their deposit back when they are entitled to it and encourages tenants and landlords to make a clear agreement from the start on the condition of the property.
To find out more about Tenancy Deposit Schemes, read our 'Understanding Tenancy Deposit Schemes' guide.
Remember:
Make sure anything you agree is in writing and don’t be afraid to walk away if something seems odd.
To find out more about housing and accommodation while at University of Worcester and where you can find help, you can browse the following webpages or book an appointment with an advisor.
Confidentiality
The Help & Advice service is confidential - nothing you tell us will be shared with the University of Worcester or any other organisation or individual without your permission. There are rare occasions where a breach of confidentiality may be deemed necessary. A breach of confidentiality will only occur if staff have evidence to believe that someone is at risk of harm and abuse. Further details can be found in our Confidentiality Policy. If a decision is made to breach confidentiality, the client will be informed in advance of the breach.
Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to ensure that all information contained on the Help & Advice webpages is both current and accurate. However, information within these pages is subject to change without prior notice. Please seek professional guidance for the latest information. Any advice given by members of staff is based on the information available and to the best of their knowledge. No liability can be accepted for any errors or misleading information. Please note the Help & Advice service is a member of AdviceUK.