University halls, private halls or a rented house? Deposits, guarantors, contracts and scam warnings
Published: Last checked: October 20264 min read
Short answer
UKCISA says you usually apply for university housing before arriving and often find private housing after you arrive; arrange temporary stay for the first nights. A deposit is usually one month's rent; get proof of payment. Private renting: at most one month's rent in advance.
Who does this apply to?
- This is general information. It does not assess anyone's personal situation and does not recommend a particular hall or company. It is for university students in England and their families. It is based on the UKCISA, Citizens Advice and GOV.UK housing pages (October 2026).
The options (UKCISA)
- University halls: arranged by the institution; usually shared flats of five or six with a private study bedroom. Bills and internet are often included.
- Private halls / student villages: run by private companies; more services but usually higher cost.
- Private rental: studios (often the most expensive), shared houses (cheaper, but bills often extra), lodging with a family (common in London), hostels and homeshares.
When and how?
- For university housing you usually apply before you arrive and meet the deadlines.
- For private rental UKCISA suggests that you often look after you arrive; arrange temporary accommodation such as a hotel or hostel before you travel.
Halls (Citizens Advice)
- In halls you are an "occupier with basic protection"; your rights are limited. There may be a deposit and often a non-refundable booking fee. Bills are generally included and students in halls do not pay council tax.
- Universities that provide halls must belong to a code of standards.
Deposits
- UKCISA says a deposit is usually one month's rent, and can be higher in London. A landlord can deduct for damage, cleaning, unpaid rent or lost keys, but not for fair wear and tear. Never pay a deposit without getting proof of payment, especially in cash.
- GOV.UK says in private renting the deposit must be put in a government-approved scheme (Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits or Tenancy Deposit Scheme) within 30 days. The same rule applies if someone else, such as a parent, pays. UKCISA says institutions and shared rooms are exempt from this protection.
- At the end of the tenancy the landlord must return the deposit within 10 days of both agreeing the amount.
Guarantors and rent in advance
- Large private developments often ask for a UK-based guarantor; universities rarely do. Without a UK guarantor you may be asked to pay the full rent up front. Some institutions may act as guarantor in difficult cases and some companies act as guarantors for a fee. Limit the guarantor's liability to rent and damages.
- GOV.UK says that in England since 1 May 2026 at most one month's rent can be asked in advance in private renting, and only after the agreement is signed; rent cannot be asked before signing. This rule is for privately rented homes; check separately for hall contracts.
Scams
- UKCISA: fake landlords ask for deposits on properties that do not exist and target international students. Do not pay before verifying the listing and the landlord. Check that the landlord or property is in a recognised accreditation scheme. Agencies cannot charge a fee just for registering.
The contract
- Contracts are binding; read them before signing. In a joint tenancy each tenant is liable for the full rent; ask for an individual let if you prefer. Hall contracts usually cover the full academic year with limited flexibility.
- Check what is included (bills, internet, insurance) and whether you must move out during holidays such as Christmas. Keep dated photos and written records at move-in.
Points to watch
- Official pages and rules change. This post is a general summary.
What can you do?
Official sources
This answer is based on the pages below. Check the source yourself before you decide.