Are you thinking of moving to a new place next year? It could be almost time to start the search! We know this can often feel complicated and overwhelming, so that’s why your SU Advice Team is here with some tips and guidelines for finding housing for the next academic year.

Where to look

It’s not always easy to find the right place, and with so many housing and real estate websites out there, it can be hard to know where to begin!

Many popular real estate websites such as Rightmove and Spare Room are not regulated and can be subject to scams. Read carefully and be cautious when browsing housing platforms.

We would recommend starting with these two:

1. University of London Housing Services (ULHS)

ULHS provides free private housing advice to students across London. You can also use the ULHS Property Platform to find accommodation from reputable landlords, letting agents, and private halls providers. ULHS have a team of solicitors who can provide legal advice on housing related issues, such as contracts, deposits, disrepair concerns and other issues with landlords or letting agents. This can be a really helpful resource if you find yourself facing more complex problems. The ULHS also host student events like housing talks and webinars.

2. UAL/Arts SU Housing Group on Facebook

We also have our very own platform designed to help UAL students to find housing. Join the group to find listings for accommodation and flat shares.

Is the agent legitimate?

It’s also a good idea to check the legitimacy of the letting agent before moving forward with anything else. This can be done via the Property Agent Checker, where you can find legitimate agents in your area.

All letting agents and property managers in England must join a redress scheme. On the scheme’s website, you can check if an agent is correctly registered, and file complaints regarding unresolved issues with an agent.

Renting with others

If you are renting with others, your shared house may need to be a licensed HMO (House in Multiple Occupation). This usually applies to properties with three or more tenants from more than one household sharing facilities like the kitchen and bathroom. This is important because landlords of HMO properties have extra legal responsibilities.

When to look

It is usually suggested to look roughly 1 to 2 months before your intended move-in date. So if you are planning to move in before the summer break, it can be good to start looking in April. Students looking to move in September may start the search a little later. Occasionally some properties may be listed earlier, so there is no strict rule! It can be helpful to browse housing options earlier, to get an understanding of the market.

What to consider

We all look for different things when house hunting, here are some of the key factors in deciding if the property is right for you:

1. Location

There are benefits to living more centrally in London, but also many benefits to living outside of London! When considering locations, think about public transport- where is the closest station? How frequently does the transport run? How much will it cost to get to university each day?

2. Price range

Renting in London is not cheap, so it can be helpful to set a price range for yourself before you start searching. If you are looking to rent privately, also keep the utility costs in mind. It’s a good idea to ask for a copy of previous utility bills for the property you are viewing, so you have a rough idea of the cost.

If you are looking for a shared house with friends, have an honest conversation about budgets before viewing any properties.

3. Length of tenancy

Make sure you have allowed plenty of time for moving in and moving out, and that you have somewhere to stay both before and after the tenancy. The move-in date, duration of the tenancy, and notice period should be clearly stated in the contract.

Are you looking for housing advice? Book a free appointment with an Arts SU advisor - appointments are available both virtually and in-person.