The market for student housing is changing, and the rental law reforms may limit the ability of students to secure a residence. The UK Renters’ Rights Bill, aimed at protecting tenants more, has been causing concern, particularly regarding the fate of student housing.
The developments could affect the way students, especially international students, get housing. It may lead to a smaller number of properties for sale, higher rents, and greater competition. This blog will dissect the major alterations in the Renters’ Rights Bill and discuss what it will do to students seeking to rent houses.
Key Changes in the Renters’ Rights Bill
The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces several major changes to the rental market. Here are the key points:
Abolishing Fixed-Term Tenancies
Traditionally, students sign fixed-term contracts that match the academic year, giving them a stable place to live for a set period. However, the UK Renters’ Rights Bill proposes a shift to open-ended tenancies. This means students could stay in a property indefinitely—if the landlord agrees.
Why is this an issue?
- Landlords may be less inclined to let students due to the uncertainty of when students will vacate.
- This could interfere with the normal turnover of student homes, making it more difficult to secure housing that fits the university calendar.
Ban on Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
Nowadays, Section 21 enables landlords to evict tenants without specifying a reason. This can at times be used to prepare the property for new tenants when students vacate it. The new changes would, however, abolish this provision.
What does it mean for you?
- Some landlords might be less willing to rent to students if they cannot quickly repossess the property.
- There might be fewer properties on offer, causing more competition between students.
Restrictions on Rent in Advance
Some international students pay rent well in advance, as they would not necessarily be able to afford a UK guarantor. The Renters’ Rights Bill recommends restrictions on how much advance rent a landlord should be able to demand, something that might serve to deter some international students from finding a property.
Why is this a concern?
- Landlords might hesitate to rent to international students without a UK guarantor.
- Some students may end up looking at more expensive, purpose-built student accommodation.
Read more: Find Your Perfect Student Accommodation in Liverpool City Center
Minimum Housing Standards
The new bill also establishes regulations to make rental properties of better quality. While this is good for tenants, as it should ensure more comfortable and safe living conditions, it can also cost landlords more. Due to this, students might find themselves paying more for rent.
How Will These Changes Impact Students?
If the Renters’ Rights Bill is passed as is, students may face:
- More competition for available properties
- Longer waiting times to find accommodation
- Higher rent due to fewer available properties and more demand
- Challenges for international students, who may find it harder to meet rent payment requirements
These reforms, says Propertymark, a prominent property organization, have the potential to cut the supply of student rental properties by a considerable amount.
What Can Students Do?
It’s necessary to begin searching for accommodation in advance. Following are a few tips for securing a place:
- Get a head start – The earlier you start looking, the greater your chances of securing the appropriate property.
- Look at university-managed housing – Some universities provide their own accommodation or have partnerships with approved landlords for student housing.
- Use bona fide letting agencies – Reliable letting agencies can assist you in identifying suitable accommodation that suits your requirements.
- Explore alternative payment options – If rent in advance is limited, speak with landlords about alternative options, like paying a deposit instead.
FAQs
How will the UK Renters’ Rights Bill affect student accommodation?
The bill could make it harder for students to find rental properties as some landlords may choose to rent to long-term tenants instead of students.
Why are landlords concerned about abolishing fixed-term tenancies?
Without fixed-term contracts, landlords may face uncertainty about when tenants will move out, making it more difficult to plan for future renters.
What challenges will international students face under the new bill?
International students, who often pay rent in advance, might struggle to find accommodation if landlords can no longer ask for large upfront payments.
How can students find accommodation despite these changes?
Start looking early, consider university housing options, and use reputable letting agencies to help you secure a place.
Final Thoughts
Student housing is changing, and these new regulations could potentially make it hard for students to secure a spot. While the Renters’ Rights Bill would improve life for tenants, it could lead to fewer rental houses and higher prices.
How Deen House Can Help
It does not need to be a hassle finding the right student accommodation. Deen House offers a wide range of secure, fully-managed student properties to suit your needs. Whether you are a home student or a foreign student, Deen House can help you find accommodation suitable for your school schedule.
Start looking today and find the comfortable, affordable housing offered by Deen House. Their knowledgeable staff is ready to help you find the ideal home for you.
For more information or to book a view, ring Deen House, 0151 319 0000, or email info@deenhouse.co.uk.
