Student accommodation tips

Students in Manchester typically start looking for the next academic year’s accommodation around November and December.

There are several factors that students should take into account before making decisions on where and who to live with. This guidance will contain advice that is subject to national and local restrictions as well as leading practice information that shows the commitment of Manchester Student Homes (MSH) registered accommodation providers to protecting the safety of their tenants, their prospective tenants, the local community, themselves and their staff.

MSH can help students find University Approved Accommodation that have been checked and meet their Code of Standards. They provide FREE information, advice and guidance on housing and also carry out contract checks.

What are the things you need to know before looking for your student accommodation?

• How big is your group?
• What kind of accommodation are you looking for? A shared house, flat or private halls?
• Where do you want to live? City Centre, Victoria Park or areas like Fallowfield or Withington?
• What is your budget? Does it include or exclude bills?
• How far are you willing to walk, cycle or get the bus?

Accommodation hunting tips:

Take your time

It is important to take your time and ensure that you have carried out the research on the type of property, the landlord/ letting agent, rental price, the contract and the housemates. Try and look at as many properties as possible to ensure that you have a clear idea on the type of properties available.

Consider who you will be living with

Carefully consider and select who you think that you can live with for extended periods of time. It is best to discuss and agree housing issues such as house rules, cleaning rota and how the bills will be split.

Viewing and reviewing accommodation safely

Once you have shortlisted the properties you wish to view, and viewed any video walkthroughs and/ or photos available, contact the landlord/ agent to book a viewing. If you are looking for accommodation as a group, then you should ideally visit the properties as a group.

You can download the Manchester Student Homes Top Tip and House Hunting Check List to take to your viewings. If you have any queries you can contact Manchester Student Homes on 0161 275 7680 or email them at manchesterstudenthomes@manchester.ac.uk. 

Check your contract with MSH

The tenancy agreement is a legally binding document that is for a fixed period of time. Therefore after signing they can be extremely difficult to cancel or be released from. MSH provides a contract checking service that is free. This will support you with any queries and help in identifying any abnormalities that you should be aware of.

You can get your contract checked via email at manchesterstudenthomes@manchester.ac.uk, booking a virtual appointment, or an in-person appointment.

Is your deposit in a protection scheme?

Deposits are there to cover non-payment of rent and any damage to the property. Landlords are required by law to protect a tenant’s deposit in a government registered scheme. Students should receive a letter confirming the details of where the deposit is protected and how to release the funds at the end of the tenancy.

If you have any housing queries please email them here or call them on 0161 275 7680.