Off-campus accommodation
Please note: Warwick Accommodation does not own or manage any off-campus housing for staff or families.
Off-Campus
Relocation Service
Relocation service for new staff and visiting academics
We're here to help new staff members and visiting academics find accommodation in the nearby area. If you're relocating to the University of Warwick, particularly from overseas, it can be a daunting prospect.
Below you can find information and tools that help provide an overview of what you'll need to consider.
Renting a Property
Our guide to renting property in the UK
Which location is suitable for you?
If you have never visited the areas around The University of Warwick it would be a good idea to research which location would work best for you and your family before you start to view.
If you do not have time to explore yourself you could ask a friend or colleague, or check the local area information already available on the website. If you do have children and want them to go to a certain school, it is necessary to make sure that the property you decide on falls within the right catchment area.
Due to new legislation you do need to be able to view properties in person, a time frame of around 4 weeks is advisable. This should give you time to view, apply for properties that you like and go through the referencing process before the date that you need to move in.
Arrange short term accommodation for when you arrive
It is always advisable to arrange short term accommodation for when you arrive. This way you can attend viewings and take time to decide which property would work best for you.
Due to the competitive nature of the market some properties are extremely popular and if you arrange viewings a long time in advance the properties you are interested in may be gone by the time you come to view.
There are a number of options for short term accommodation:
- The University has conference centres on main campus that operate a bed and breakfast service. To check rates and availability please call on 024 7657 3925 or email
- The University also publishes a Lodgings List which is where private residential landlords offer rooms to let in their own homes. To view the current vacancies please visit the website.
- We also advertise a short term accommodation list which has details of local bed and breakfasts, holiday lets and hotels in the local area. It also has links to sites such as airbnb and spareroom.com.
Important Information about Letting Agents
There are many ways to find suitable properties to rent.
Please note it is illegal for letting agents to charge you money just to register with them for property details or just to view a property. There will be costs involved after you decide on a property but these costs should be displayed on any property adverts. Please make sure you ask letting agents about additional costs before parting with any money. Some of the costs involved with securing a property may be non refundable.
You can also start your own search by phoning local agents in the area and registering you details or alternatively you could start your search by looking on the following websites as below:
Letting agents and Landlord differences
- Safeagent (formerly National Approved Lettings Scheme)
- Propertymark (formerly Association of Residential Letting Agents and
National Association of Estate Agents)
- UK Association of Letting Agents
Each of these organisations lists their members on their websites. It is a legal requirement that every letting agent is a member of one of these professional bodies.
Tips for Viewing
The Government website has some useful information in terms of a checklist which can be used when renting in the UK.
The questions below can be used as guidelines to make sure that all of the relevant questions are asked when you attend viewings. This should mean that you have all of the relevant information available to make sure you can make an informed decision.
1. Can you afford the rent?
Including advance deposits and advance rent, monthly bills and council tax.
2. How long is the tenancy for?
Ask if there is a break clause and if there are any costs to renew your contract.
3. Check the exterior or the property
Look for damp patches or any obvious signs of disrepair. If you find anything, check if they will be repaired before you move in.
4. Inspect inside of the property
Is there any damp and condensation or evidence of pests inside the property.
5. Inspect the communal area
Check the garden, entrance hall and stairwell and enquire who is responsible for these areas. Ask if there are any additional service charges for the maintennce of these areas.
6. Focus on heating
Check how energy efficient the property is (all properties should have an energy performance certificate EPC), also check the heating and ask for an estimated monthly bill if possible.
7. Furniture and fixtures
Ask what is included within the agreement, never presume furniture will be staying. Check inventories and that all furniture is in good condition.
8. Check appliances and safety certificates are in place
Make sure all portable appliances are checked every year ensuring the landlord has an electrical safety certificate. Also check if the property has fire alarms, or heat sensors and if they are hard wired or battery operated. Check who is responsible for the upkeep of all appliances.
9. Ask about gas safety
All properties must have a gas safety certificate by law, this will be renewed every 12 months.
To assist with your search, you may wish to use our viewing helpsheet
Applying for a property
Once you have found a property that you like, make sure you are prepared to move quickly to secure your new home by having everything ready in advance. The paperwork you will asked to produce may include the following:
- Your bank details
- Recent bank statements
- A letter from your employer confirming that you work for them
- Your pay slips
- Your employment contract
If you cannot produce any of the above documents, please advise your letting agent before you part with a holding deposit.
Right to Rent
From the 1st of February 2016 new regulations state that all residents renting property should be able to prove they have the right to rent in the UK. Right to rent checks are standard procedures that will apply to all tenants. For more information please see the government's check tenant right to rent document.
During a right to rent check you can expect the landlord to check the immigration status of everybody over 18 that will be living at the property. No checks are needed for children under the age of 18. A landlord or letting agent may charge a fee for a right to rent check.
The landlord will do follow up checks if your right to rent in the UK is limited. This will be done at the latest of these dates
- After 12 months at the property
- When your right to remain in the UK expires
- The date you passport expires.
Costs related to renting
- Payment of the Rent
- Payment of a refundable tenancy deposit capped at no more than five week's rent where your total annual rent is less than £50,000, or six week's rent where your total annual rent is £50,000 or above
- Payment of a refundable tenancy holding deposit (to reserve the property) capped at no more than one week's rent
- Payments to change the tenancy when requested by the tenant, capped at £50.00, or reasonable costs incurred if higher
- Payments associated with early termination of the tenancy , when requested by the tenant
- Payments in respect of utilities, communication services, TV licence and council tax
- A default fee for late payment of rent and replacements of a lost key/security device giving access to the housing, where required under a tenancy agreement
- Routine inspections throughout the tenancy
- Anything they already charge the landlord for
Assured shorthold tenancies
Assured short hold tenancies are usually for a term of 6 months to a year. They should give you the right to have your deposit protected and be served notice before eviction.
Please be aware that this guide is for general information only. Should you require official advice on a specific contract or wish to settle a legal dispute, please seek advice from a qualified expert.
Please note - if you live in the same house as your landlord you do not have an assured shorthold tenancy. Lodgers have very different rights to a tenant living in a private residence.
The Contract
Within an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) you should be able to find the rent rate, who is responsible for repairs at the property and how long a tenancy should last.
You are committed to paying the rent for the duration of your contract so please be sure you feel this is affordable before signing the contract.
Tenancy Deposit
If you have an assured short hold tenancy you have the right to have your deposit priotected within a Tenancy Deposit Scheme. The deposit is an amount given by the tenant which acts as an insurance policy for the landlord, he can use this cover any unpaid rent or repair any damage caused by the tenant on departure.
It is a legal requirement for the landlord to protect your deposit in a government approved tenancy deposit scheme.
It is important that when you start your contract that you are happy with the condition of the property. Make sure you have a detailed inventory and that you and your landlord agree on the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy. Always take photos as well. This can be used to settle disputes at the end.
Rent increases
Your landlord cannot increase the rent during the term of the contract unless it stipulates this in the contract.
Repairs
Your landlord should be responsible for the repairs to the roof, walls, windows and doors and the wiring and plumbing. Make sure this is clear from the start of the contract.
If your property needs repairs your landlord has the right to access however must give you notice.
You also have a responsibility as a tenant for the general upkeep of the building, make sure you are clear if this includes the garden etc as well.
Always ask before carrying out any works to the property especially if it includes redecoration of any kind or drilling into walls etc.
Leaving or Staying on
When your tenancy comes to an end you may have a number of options
- Ask your landlord if you can renew, this may involve paying renewal fees and the landlord may also decide to increase the rent.
- You can end your contract but check if you need to give written notice etc and make sure you do this in the specified time.
- Ask if you can have a rolling contract where you contract rolls on from month to month with the same rent.
- You may be able to leave before the fixed term if your contract has a break clause
Cost of Renting
The list below outlines the overall costs associated with renting. It details the initial costs involved with securing the property as well as the on-going costs that are involved throughout a tenancy.
Costs prior to Tenancy
Tenancy Deposit
It is common to be asked to pay the equivalent of 1 to 2 months rent as a tenancy deposit. This will be payable in advance of moving in to the property. If you have an assured shorthold tenancy this money should be help in a secure tenancy deposit scheme and you should get it back at the end of your tenancy if you don’t miss any rent payments or cause any damage to the property.
Rent in advance
The landlord will usually ask for at least one month’s rent in advance however if you cannot produce documentation to prove you can afford the rent you may be asked to pay more, it could be up to 6 months especially if you cannot offer a guarantor.
Letting or Estate Agents fee
From 1 June 2019, tenancy deposits are capped and most fees charged in connection with a tenancy are banned. There are also set procedures in place regarding holding deposits. For more information, please read the government guidance on the ban which will apply to all new lettings from 1 June 2019 and will apply to existing lettings from 1 June 2020.
Moving Costs
You will also need to take into account the removal costs if you are moving locally as well as the shipping costs if you are moving internationally.
If you are moving into an unfurnished property you may also need to consider what furniture you may need.
If you wanted to get a clear idea of what you may need to budget each month you could use the following monthly budget calculator recommended by Shelter. It is hosted by the Money Advice Service here. You can also look on Shelter's website for tips on organising money here.
Costs during Tenancy
Rent
Make sure you can afford the rent for the neighbourhood that you want to be in, by using websites such as Rightmove or Zoopla you can normally calculate the average rent for the property type and size that you want in any particular area or postcode.
Please be aware that the contract usually states that rent is payable on a particular day and is normally payable in advance so you will always be paying for the month ahead.
Council Tax
The council tax may be included in the rent but this should be set out in writing from the start of your tenancy if it is. Normally you would pay directly to your local authority (which is dependent on where your property is). If you are living alone or are a pensioner you may receive a discount and normally households that only have full time students living in them are exempt of council tax however you need to confirm this with your local council.
Service Charges
These are normally payable in blocks of flats where you have shared hallways and external areas, this money pays for the upkeep of the building. Again make sure you are aware if any service charges apply before you sign the contract.
Household Bills
As well as rent and council tax please take into account other bills such as gas and electricity, broadband/phone, water rates and television licence
Tenants rights and Responsibilities
Private renting advice can be found on the GOV.UK website. The webpage explains a tenant's rights and responsibilities in addition to a range of other information in the property process.
Disputes
There are often legal protections in place for the most common problems that you may experience during the tenancy – the following points provide guidance and information where to seek help:
- If you are having financial problems, or are falling into rent arrears, speak to your landlord as they may be helpful, and are likely to be more sympathetic if you talk to them about any difficulties early on. Should you need further help contact Citizens Advice or Shelter as soon as possible.
- If the property is in an unsafe condition and your landlord won’t repair it – contact your local authority. They have powers to make landlords deal with serious health and safety hazards.
- If you have a serious complaint that has been checked by your local authority, your landlord cannot evict you for six months, and must repair the fault.
- Unannounced visits and harassment from your landlord – contact your local authority, or if more urgent dial 999.
- If you are being forced out illegally , contact the police . If your landlord wants you to leave the property, they must notify you in writing, with the right amount of notice – you can only be legally removed from the property with a court order.
For further information please refer to GOV.UK's advice on the checklist for renting in England webpage.
Need help with terminology? See our glossary of terms webpage for support.
Local Letting Agents
Coventry
Benburys
20 Parkville Highway
Holbrooks, Coventry
West Midlands
CV6 4HZ
+44 (0)24 7666 1553
enquiries@benburys.co.uk
Payne Associates
20 New Union Street
Coventry
CV1 2HN
+44 (0)24 7622 2022
city@payne-cov.com
Leamington Spa
EHB Residential
Somerset House
Clarendon Place
Leamington Spa
Warwickshire
CV32 5QN
+44 (0)19 2688 1144
info@ehbresidential.com
Accord Lettings
1 Newbold Terrace
Royal Leamington Spa
CV32 4EA
+44 (0)19 2643 7807
Kenilworth
AP Residential
11 High Street
Kenilworth
Warkwickshire
CV8 1LY
+44 (0)19 2685 4458
ap@apresidential.co.uk
Boothroyd and Company
19 The Square
Kenilworth
Warwickshire
CV8 1EF
+44 (0)19 2685 1451
Warwick
Central Relocation Services
Offers a personlised service that covers many aspects of relocating including property searches in Leamington, Kenilworth, Coventry and Warwick.
Please contact Jenny Dawe at the company direct to confirm details and costs related to your tailor made relocation package.
+44 (0)19 2649 2644
information@centralrelocation.co.uk
Fax: +44 (0)19 2649 4926
Local areas in the region of the University of Warwick
Coventry
Coventry City centre, a few miles from the University, is currently undergoing a major regeneration programme.
The area in general, having cheaper accommodation than South Warwickshire, is now benefiting from substantial investment in the development of new two new civic squares, public gardens, new bars and upmarket apartments, close to all existing amenities right in the City centre.
The City is a mix of the old and the new, retaining many buildings of historic interest, including cathedrals, churches, medieval guildhalls, almshouses, timber-framed pubs and shops, art galleries and museums. Coventry has its own Theatre that has recently been extended.
With a population of 300,000, Coventry is a city that has the feel of a big town and well worth checking out. Coventry's mainline railway station has around 4 trains an hour running to London Euston, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Earlsdon
A popular suburb in South Coventry that was once a village in its own right. Only 1.5 miles away from the University and within a mile from the Centre of Coventry.
It's a mixed area popular with students, but is also home to professionals and families alike. It has a Victorian feel and the houses date from the turn of the century onwards. It has a few shops, bars and restaurants along the High Street.
Properties tend to be quite reasonably priced but go quite quickly with Landlords buying them up to rent. Similarly, Chapelfields and Coundon are nearby.
Cheylesmore
There are shopping facilities and of course good access to the City Centre.
Stivichall and Finham
A few miles from the University, are very nice residential areas situated on the outskirts of the City, on the favoured south side. The areas are situated quite closely together and a popular choice for families because of the excellent schools and large parks in the area.
Tile Hill
Very reasonable properties, its own railway station with good links to Coventry and Birmingham and well situated for the NEC. The shopping facilities are fairly limited, but are within easy reach of the facilities at Coventry and Solihull.
Eastern Green and Mount Nod
Small affordable residential areas on the edge of the City and very close to the University. There are a few local shops but the bulk of the amenities are nearby in Coventry City Centre.
Leamington Spa
Leamington Spa, eight miles from the University.
Leamington Spa is an old market town made up of mostly Georgian and Victorian housing, with some new-build areas.
It's the more lively neighbour of Warwick, Stratford and Kenilworth, with good shopping on the Parade and a good selection of restaurants, bars and nightlife.
The Jephson Gardens and Pump Rooms at the bottom on the Parade are popular with locals and tourists alike. Leamington has its own theatre and sports facilities.
Housing
Property prices vary greatly from the more favoured north side of the town, to the more reasonably priced, but still accessible, south side.
Schools
The schools are generally very good in Leamington and offer a good selection of public and comprehensive schools.
Leamington is an easy 15 minute drive from the University and is well serviced by the X12 bus that will take you directly into the University. There is a mainline station at Leamington with the Chiltern Line providing a good service to Marylebone London and Birmingham. Virgin Trains also run via Coventry.
Useful Websites
Kenilworth
Kenilworth, 2 miles from the University, is an historic market town with a beautiful park in the centre, and the famous Kenilworth Castle ruins.
There are good local leisure facilities and a range of local shops, boutiques and an excellent selection of pubs, bars and restaurants. The town itself offers a good selection of public and private schooling from nursery to secondary level.
Useful Websites
Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is 19 miles from the University. This country market town is the birthplace of William Shakespeare and is of course a very popular place with tourists. Stratford is steeped in history and has its own theatre, good shops and easy access to larger towns.
The Chiltern railway line runs from Stratford's train station to Marylebone in around an hour and 40 minutes. Stratford has two grammar schools one for boys one for girls, and generally a good reputation for education. The house prices in the area are higher here than in the surrounding areas.
Useful Websites
Warwick
Warwick, 7 miles from the University, is a medieval market town, home to many cafes, bars, restaurants and specialist shops. Warwick Castle is the most famous medieval castle in England, which has a wealth of events happening throughout the year.
The housing is a mix of old and new-build, with two large estates in the area, where reasonably priced properties can be found. At the higher end of the market you will find the medieval and Georgian properties situated in the town centre. Prices are generally on par with Leamington Spa and Kenilworth.
Warwick has a good selection of schools including, three senior (state) schools, and two private schools; Warwick School and Kings High (for girls).
Leisure facilities include Warwick Racecourse, Warwick Boat club, with tennis and squash, situated on the River Avon with excellent views of the castle. There is a theatre situated in the Warwick School which is open to the public. Leamington Spa facilities there are within easy reach.
Useful Websites
Solihull
Solihull is a half an hour drive from the University (15 miles), either via the A45/M42 or through country roads back through to Tile Hill. Solihull has a pedestrianised town centre with an attractive High Street and some great shopping centres.
The countryside is easily accessible from Solihull and there are some very pretty surrounding villages such as Knowle, Dorridge, Henley-in-Arden, Tamworth-in-Arden and many others to investigate.
The house prices in the area reflect the excellent amenities available, but as there is a large variety of properties available there should be something for everyone.
The schools in the area are excellent and it has been said that you move to Solihull to buy a catchment area rather than a house.
The Chiltern line runs from Solihull Station to London Marylebone in around 2 hours. The City of Birmingham and its international facilities are within nine miles and the NEC, Birmingham International Rail and airport are four miles away.
Useful Websites
Short term Accommodation on your arrival
Hotels & Guest Houses
There are a large number of hotels and guest houses in the Coventry, Kenilworth, Leamington Spa and Warwick areas.
The list below is for information only and does not necessarily imply recommendation.
Information and rates are subject to change, individuals need to confirm rates when booking
Distances given are from the University to the hotel or guest house and are estimated time to drive.
Other hotels and guest houses may be found through an online search.
Campus B&B
Warwick Conferences have high standard hotel-style accommodation on the University of Warwick campus.
Find out more and book at Warwick Conferences B&B.
| Address & contact |
Price per night (approx) |
Distance from the University of Warwick |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Warwick 024 7657 3925 |
POA | On the University of Warwick campus |
|
| Mile Lane 024 7625 0500 |
£45 - £75 per night | 4.3 miles (11 mins) |
|
| London Road 024 7630 1585 |
POA | 6.6 miles (17 mins) Situated on eastern outskirts of the city. |
|
| Dolomite Business Park 0871 222 4582 |
|
2.3 miles (7 mins) On main bus route. 4 star hotel with gym facilities. |
|
| Windmill Village | Birmingham Road 024 7640 4040 |
|
4.4 miles (12 mins) On main road link to the University. |
| Fairfax Street 0871 221 0095 |
From £45 per person per night | 4.7 miles (12 mins) 4 star hotel in the city centre. Good bus link to the University. |
| Address & contact |
Price per night (approx) |
Distance from the University of Warwick |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Abbrymar | 39a St Patricks Road 024 7622 5969 |
POA | 4.4 miles (11 mins) |
| 39 St Patricks Road 024 7622 1378 |
POA | 4.4 miles (11 mins) | |
| Acacia | 11 Park Road 024 7663 3622 |
|
4.1 miles (11 mins) |
| Ashleigh House | 17 Park Road 024 7622 3804 |
|
4.1 miles (11 mins) |
| Camp Farm |
Hob Lane 01676 533804 |
|
4 miles (10 mins) Includes full English breakfast. |
| Stoneleigh B&B |
24 Stoneleigh Close 02476 697631 07894046406 |
POA |
3 miles (10 mins) |
| Feather Bed Cottage |
Westwood Heath Rd, Coventry, CV4 8GN 02475 079079 |
From £65-£75 per night |
0.3 miles (1 mins) |
| Brinklow Road, Binley, |
|
6.9 miles (14 mins) |
| Address & contact |
Price per night (approx) |
Distance from the University of Warwick |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Queens Road 01926 855388 |
|
3 miles (11 mins) | |
| 45 Priory Road 01926 853214 |
|
3.5 miles (9 mins) | |
| Grounds Farm B&B | Farm Road 01926 864542 |
Rooms from £120 per working week |
6 miles (15 mins) Traditional Farmhouse overlooking Kenilworth castle. |
| Hollyhurst Guest House |
47 Priory Road 01926 853882 |
|
3.5 miles (9 mins) |
| Victoria Lodge Hotel | 180 Warwick Road 01926 512020 |
|
4.2 miles (11 mins) |
| Address & contact |
Price per night (approx) |
Distance from the University of Warwick |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Avenue Lodge | 61 Avenue Road 01926 338555 |
POA | 8.5 miles (18 mins) |
| Charnwood Guest House | 47 Avenue Road 01926 831074 |
|
8.5 miles (18 mins) |
| 8 Clarendon Crescent 01926 429840 |
|
8 miles (17 mins) Continental and cooked breakfast |
|
| Leamington Spa 01926 338477 |
|
7 miles (15 minutes) |
|
| The Courtyard Apartment |
50 Leam Terrace Emailor phone 07773 352816 |
|
8.5 miles (20 minutes) |
| The Parade, Leamington Spa, Telephone: 08719 846239 |
|
7.1 miles (16 mins) |
| Address & contact |
Price per night (approx) |
Distance from the University of Warwick |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 44 High Street 01926 401512 |
|
9.9 miles (21 mins) Continental breakfast included. Parking available by appointment. |
|
| Flowerdale Guest House | 1 Daniell Road |
POA Discount available when booking for more than 1 night |
16 miles (28 mins) |
| Park Cottage |
113 West Street, 01926 410319 |
From £59 per night |
9.7 miles (20 mins) |
A lower-cost option and a little more independence from a hotel or guest-house. Find a short-term let on an apartment, house or even a flat share.
The list below is for information only and does not necessarily imply recommendation.
Houses & cottages
Rooms to let
Local Information and Living Essentials
Visiting the University
- Travel directions to the University
- Traffic and travel updates
- Campus map (includes printable version)
- Car parking
- Access routes
Childcare
- Pre-school information
- University Nursery for children of students and staff.
- Coventry Family Information Service
- Warwickshire Childcare Information Service
- Big Eyed Owl early years experience information and resources.
- Childcare search for local childcare.
Schools
Primary Schools
If you wish to apply for a primary school place, you will need to apply through the local authority to which you pay your council tax, regardless of where the school is situated.
Secondary Schools
To apply for a secondary school place for a year six child who is moving to secondary school in the next academic year, or a child in year seven or above, you can apply to the local authority that manages the school, regardless of the Local Authority to which you pay your council tax.
School Admission Process
Details of the school admission process for both secondary and primary schools in the Coventry City CouncilLink opens in a new window and Warwickshire County CouncilLink opens in a new window regions.
Storage & removals
Warwick Accommodation provide a good resource of local and international removal companies.
Please make sure you are satisfied that the removal company you have chosen. It is important to make sure they have adequate insurance so you do not incur the costs of any damaged belongings.
Utilities
- OfgemLink opens in a new window(information for consumers).
Phone Line
Internet
Driver & Vehicle Licensing
International Office
The University of Warwick International Student webpages are a useful source of information.
Healthcare
Travel Insurance
- Post OfficeLink opens in a new window
- Travel SupermarketLink opens in a new window (travel insurance comparison)
HR Policies
Policies and procedures set out by Human Resources regarding relocation expenses can be found in our HR section of the website.