The Renters Reform Bill suggests moving private student lets onto the system of periodic, Assured Tenancies. This blog will discuss the debate surrounding student lets in the Renters Reform Bill.  

Student let properties are usually either:  

– private rented properties, in which the property is shared between multiple students 

– or a purpose-built property which tends to be owned by universities 

The Renters Reform Bill has caused some controversy as it suggests that most tenancies will move to a system of Assured Tenancies or periodic rolling contracts. This will allow tenants to provide 2 months’ notice to move out and property owners will no longer be able to use section 21 “no fault” evictions.  

How will it impact students? 

Most students start looking for properties around January – March to ensure that they are ready for the start of their courses (which usually start in September each year). However, the Renters Reform Bill proposals for student lets and the introduction of rolling tenancies is likely to disrupt the pattern and impact students significantly. If students can provide two months’ notice before moving out, this will make it more challenging for new students to secure a property earlier on before the start of their academic year.   

This would not only negatively impact students, but it will also make it more difficult for property owners to find new students to replace tenants who decide to move out in the middle of the year. Currently, students are signing 12-month contracts, but a periodic tenancy would mean that there will be longer void periods during the summer. As a result, property owners may decide to rent properties to professionals which would limit students’ options.  

The information in this post is valid to the best of our knowledge on the date of posting. It is advised that you seek independent advice based on your individual circumstances. 

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