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Student Accommodation

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Finding the right place to live is an important part of preparing to study in London.

The University of Sunderland in London does not own or manage student accommodation, but our students have access to specialist accommodation search and housing support through University of London Housing Services.

Whether you're looking for a room in student halls, a flat share or your own rented property, there are plenty of options across London.

University of London Housing Association

Start your accommodation search

As a University of Sunderland in London student, you can use University of London Housing Services to help you find accommodation.

Their online Property Platform includes student accommodation from private landlords, letting agents and private student halls across London.

You can also access specialist housing advice, including help with:

  • checking your tenancy agreement before you sign

  • deposits and fees

  • problems with landlords or letting agents

  • repairs and maintenance

  • private student halls avoiding accommodation scams.

You can register using your University email address, student ID or offer letter.

Search for accommodation (opens in new tab)

Types of accommodation

Private student halls

Purpose-built student accommodation usually offers an individual bedroom, often with an en-suite bathroom, alongside shared facilities such as kitchens, social spaces, study areas or gyms.

Bills are often included in the rent, although this varies between providers.

Private halls can be a good option if you're moving to London for the first time and would like to live with other students.

Flat and house shares

Sharing a flat or house can be a more affordable way of living in London.

You'll normally have your own bedroom and share facilities such as the kitchen and bathroom with other people. Depending on your tenancy, bills may either be included in your rent or paid separately.

You could live with other students or with working professionals.

Renting your own flat

You can also rent a studio or whole flat privately.

This gives you more independence, but it can be considerably more expensive than sharing, particularly in areas close to central London and Canary Wharf.

Remember to budget for any bills that aren't included in your rent.

What will I need to rent accommodation?

The documents requested will depend on the landlord or accommodation provider, but you may be asked for:

  • proof of your student status or University offer
  • passport or other identification
  • proof of your right to rent in the UK, where applicable
  • bank statements or evidence that you can pay the rent
  • references
  • details of a guarantor.

Some landlords ask students for a UK-based guarantor. If you don't have one, speak to University of London Housing Services before agreeing to alternative arrangements.

Deposits, rent and fees

Make sure you understand what you're being asked to pay before sending any money.

For most private tenancies in England:

  • a holding deposit can normally be no more than one week's rent
  • a tenancy deposit can normally be no more than five weeks' rent where annual rent is below £50,000
  • landlords and letting agents cannot charge most administration or tenancy fees
  • qualifying tenancy deposits must be protected through a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.

Rental rules can change, so check current government guidance or contact University of London Housing Services if you're unsure.

Check your rights when renting in England

Avoiding accommodation scams

Take extra care if you're arranging accommodation before arriving in the UK.

Before making a payment:

  • check who you're renting from
  • make sure you understand exactly what is included in the rent
  • ask to see the property in person or by live video if possible
  • read your tenancy agreement carefully
  • check independent reviews of the landlord, letting agent or accommodation provider
  • be cautious if you're pressured to transfer money very quickly
  • don't send money if you're unsure whether the property or provider is genuine.

University of London Housing Services can provide advice and may be able to check your contract before you sign it.

Letting agents

Other ways to search

You may also want to compare accommodation using established student and property websites, including:

These are independent websites and accommodation advertised through them is not owned or managed by the University of Sunderland in London.

Always carry out your own checks before entering into a tenancy or making a payment.

Before you book

Think about more than the weekly or monthly rent. Check:

  • how long it takes to travel to campus

  • whether bills are included

  • the length of the tenancy

  • whether the property is furnished

  • internet costs

  • laundry facilities

  • what you'll need to bring, such as bedding and kitchen equipment

  • the amount required before you move in.

 

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Need accommodation advice?

University of London Housing Services provides specialist private housing advice to University of Sunderland in London students.

They can help with finding accommodation, checking contracts and dealing with problems during your tenancy.

Get housing advice(opens in new tab)