Choosing off-campus housing

Whether you choose to live in Coventry, Leamington Spa, Canley, Tile Hill, Kenilworth, Warwick, or other surrounding areas, the step-by-step process for choosing off-campus housing is generally the same. This page provides useful information and guides to help you make a decision. For all of the information below, be sure to search which options are available in the specific local area that you're considering.

The information provided by the University of Warwick regarding off-campus housing options is intended solely for informational purposes to assist students in making informed decisions about their living arrangements. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date information, the university does not endorse any specific properties, landlords, or housing services. Students are encouraged to conduct their own research, visit potential residences, and thoroughly review lease agreements before making any commitments. By utilising this information, students acknowledge that the university is not liable for any issues arising from their choice of off-campus housing, including but not limited to safety concerns, property conditions, or landlord disputes or areas.

Types of off-campus accommodation

When it comes to off-campus living, there are a few options to explore. Whether you're looking to share the rent in a student house with other people or to live more independently, we've got the details to help find the best fit for you.

Student homes

Student homes are usually regular houses or apartments rented out specifically for students. They offer a more independent living experience and are often located within the local areas around campus.

Here’s what you can expect:

More independence Homier feel Integration with the community Option to share a home with friends Potentially lower cost

Image of terraced houses with a small front garden and path leading up to the white door

Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSAs)

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) are accommodation blocks specifically built and designed to host students. Similar to the accommodation blocks you would find on campus, you can expect to rent a room in the accommodation block.

Here’s what makes them unique:

All-inclusive bills

Utilities like electricity, water, gas and internet are typically included in the rent for a room.

However, this may not always be the case: check with the PBSA if they offer bills-inclusive rooms (you may be able to find this information on their website).

Important to note: All types of PBSA tenancies have a cap attached to their all-inclusive bill clauses. You need to be aware of the electricity, gas and water rates cap as, if exceeded, extra costs will be added on top of their rent, either monthly or at the end of their agreement.

Explore room options

Some PBSAs offer a variety of room options to suit different student preferences. You may be able to choose from options like shared flats with communal kitchens and bathrooms, en-suite rooms for more privacy, or self-contained studios for complete independence. Note that more self-contained options, like en-suites and studios, tend to come at a higher price compared to shared flats.

Be sure to check what type of room options are available at the PBSA you’re considering.

On-site facilities Security Social opportunities

Finding somewhere to live

If you have decided whether you would like to stay in a student home or a PBSA, the next step is to find somewhere to live that will satisfy all of your needs. The resources below are there to help guide you into making a decision that’s right for you.

Looking for accommodation: don't rush to rent!

Finding the right accommodation is the first important step in starting your off-campus experience. Don't rush to rent, there is plenty of time, and accommodation, in the local areas! The SU has created a helpful Looking for AccommodationLink opens in a new window page with detailed guidance and advice on starting your search. We’ve highlighted some key points to help you get started:

Decide if you want to live alone, or with other people.
- If you want to live with other people, think about how many people you'd like in your group and choose your flatmates carefully. Check out the 'Choosing Flatmates' section on our Off-Campus Living Advice page for more guidance.
Choose where you want to live.
- Learn more about the local areas around campus that could be compatible with your lifestyle and commute preferences. You can start by visiting our Local Areas page to learn more about the local towns around campus.
View multiple properties in person, don’t settle for the first option.
- Be sure to check out the House Viewing Inspection checklistLink opens in a new window by the SU to learn what to look out for when visiting properties.
- Check if the purpose-built student accommodation also provides room viewings.
Talk to the current tenants about the property or PBSA.
- Ask the students who currently live there about their experience with the property and landlord. You may have a chance to do this when viewing a property in person.

You can also find out more detailed advice about landlords and which websites to use to look for accommodation on the SU's 'Looking for Accommodation' page. Check out their Renting AccommodationLink opens in a new window page for further information and guidance for renting accommodation in the private sector.

Student in discussion surrounded by various laptops

Warwick StudentPad

Warwick Studentpad is a student property portal exclusively for Warwick students, advertising properties local to the University. You can browse properties, liaise directly with the landlord(s) and connect with other Warwick students to find housemates and/or chat about your property experiences, all in one place.

Designed to take the stress out of your property search, we recruit landlords with properties in the areas you want to live, to advertise directly to you, offering you a wide range of choice.

Experienced professionals run the service and can provide guidance on local areas, what to look for in a property and what you need to know about your landlord. We encourage you to carry out your own due diligence before entering a tenancy with the landlord.

Warwick StudentPad

Guarantors

A guarantor is someone who agrees to cover your rent if you’re unable to pay. Most landlords and agencies will require a UK-based guarantor for student rentals. Before signing a contract, make sure your guarantor understands their legal responsibilities.

Guarantors for international students

If you don’t have a UK-based guarantor, you can also explore guarantor services which act as your guarantor for a fee. Here are some organisations that offer guarantor services to students:

Be sure to ask your landlord or letting agent about their guarantor requirements early on, so you have time to make arrangements.

2 people shaking hands with a house key being held up between them.

Housing contracts

Lastly, if you have chosen somewhere you would like to live, that's great!

Don’t rush to sign your contract! A housing contract is a legally binding agreement between you and your landlord. Once signed, you are committed to the contract, so it’s important to carefully review all details, including rent, deposit, the group you are staying with, and tenancy duration.

We recommend checking out the SU’s ‘Signing the Contract’ page for a checklist of important things to consider, as well as a lot of useful information to help you or your group fully understand your housing contract before signing.

Having an independent review of your contract can also be incredibly helpful to ensure you don’t miss anything. Consider getting your contract checked by a member of the SU Advice Centre Team who are there to help you make an informed decision.

Check your contract

Student blog: understanding your housing contract