Finding accommodation off campus
National student housing survey
Finding accommodation off campus
The Kent Hospitality Accommodation Office publishes the official list of off-campus accommodation offered by private landlords on 25 January.
All of the properties on the list are registered with the local accreditation scheme
Canterbury Student Housing which means that the landlords have voluntarily agreed to follow a code of conduct to ensure that their properties are managed properly and meet health and safety standards.
We would encourage all students to rent accredited properties.
However there is no need to rush!
The large number of students in Canterbury leads many to believe that there are not enough properties to go round, when in fact there is a surplus of rented accommodation. Although we would advise you against leaving your search for accommodation until the last minute, neither would we advise you to rush out and sign up for the first place you see. Take your time and make sure that you have found a place that is, among other things, affordable, in good condition and in the right location. You also need to be confident that, come September, you will still be on speaking terms with the people you are planning to share with!
Before you start looking for accommodation, take some time to read the Renting FAQs and the information available through the links below.
National student housing survey
Are you happy with your housing or have you had problems? Whether you are living in university or private rented accommodation, take part in this nationwide student survey.
Paying a deposit
A new Tenancy Deposit Scheme came into force on 6 April 2007. If you signed a tenancy and paid a deposit before then, your deposit is not covered by the scheme.
Council Tax
If a property is occupied entirely by full time students it is exempt from council tax. In order for the property to be exempt you must each get a certificate from Student Records and send it to the local council tax department. If you do not do this you will get a council tax bill.
Download an NUS leaflet on students and Council Tax.
Housing Benefit
This is paid by local councils to help pay the rent. Most full time students are not entitled to Housing Benefit, but there are some exceptions, these include:
- students who are lone parents
- students with disabilities
- students who are taking time out from their studies due to illness
You can find out more about this from NUS Online
If you think you may be entitled to Housing Benefit please contact us for further advice.
Kent Union and university information
What to Look for When Renting a Property
Government publications
Assured and assured shorthold tenancies
Harassment and illegal eviction
Renting rooms in someone's home
Tenants: Does your landlord need a licence?
Tenants' rights and responsibilities
Unfair Terms in Tenancy Agreements
