Don’t rush to rent – when to start looking for student accommodation

In such uncertain times, it’s important that you consider the implications of starting your property search early or signing a contract for next year.

There’s no rush to rent

It’s a myth that all the good properties go early! There is a surplus of private student accommodation in Liverpool, so you can delay your search until after Christmas and there are always plenty of properties available. It’s better to take your time to make the right choice.

Don’t stress about deciding who you want to live with next year. Given the circumstances, you may not have formed your friendship groups yet. Take time to get to know others and to decide what is right for you.

Tenancy agreements (contracts) are legally binding, so it is not easy to walk away if you change your mind or your circumstances change. You should look for COVID flexible terms in any contracts that you are offered, and you can search for accommodation providers who are offering flexibility on the Liverpool Student Homes (LSH) website.

LSH are not yet advertising accredited properties for 2021/22. Accredited student properties meet a set of quality and safety criteria and also offer a means of redress if something goes wrong during your tenancy. It’s worth waiting until the accredited properties are available.

Need help?

LSH is your university department for private student accommodation, based at 5 Oxford Street. The service is there to support you throughout the time you’re renting private student accommodation in Liverpool and it’s your next stop when looking for accommodation after university halls.

As well as providing free housing rights advice, they have a large database of accredited student properties. This means that to advertise properties on the LSH website, accommodation providers must commit to meeting the strict requirements of the accreditation scheme – the LSH Standards.

Find out more about LSH and their #ChillLikeASloth campaign here.