Introduction
Finding student accommodation is an exciting part of preparing for university, but signing a tenancy agreement is a decision that should not be rushed. A tenancy agreement sets out your responsibilities as a tenant and explains what you can expect from your landlord or accommodation provider.
For international students, understanding the agreement is particularly important because rental practices and legal requirements may differ from those in their home country. Before signing, take time to review the following key areas.
Things to Check Before Signing a Tenancy Agreement
1. Check the Rent and Payment Schedule
Make sure the rent stated in the agreement matches what you were originally quoted. Check how often payments are due and whether any rent is required before the tenancy begins. Also establish whether the advertised rent includes utilities, broadband, or other services.
For private rentals in England, current government guidance states that landlords cannot ask for or accept rent before the tenancy agreement has been signed. After signing, specific limits apply to rent requested before the tenancy starts.
2. Understand the Tenancy Terms
Read the agreement carefully to understand the type and duration of your tenancy. Since 1 May 2026, most new private tenancies in England are assured periodic tenancies rather than fixed-term assured short-hold tenancies. Student halls and private halls can operate under different arrangements, so students should check exactly what type of agreement they are signing.
Pay particular attention to:
Tenancy type:
Understand the legal arrangement and how it operates.
Rent dates:
Check exactly when each payment is due.
Notice requirements:
Understand the procedure for ending the tenancy.
Occupancy rules:
Check who is permitted to live at the property.
Property rules:
Look for restrictions relating to guests, pets, smoking, or alterations.
3. Check the Deposit and Other Charges
Find out how much you need to pay as a tenancy deposit and when it is due. In England, the maximum tenancy deposit for many properties is five weeks’ rent where annual rent is below £50,000, with a higher maximum applying to certain higher-rent properties. Deposits generally need to be protected through an approved scheme.
Also check for any permitted charges relating to utilities, tenancy changes, late rent, replacement keys, or other services. Landlords cannot charge tenants arbitrary fees outside the permitted categories.
4. Understand the Guarantor Requirement
Some student accommodation providers require tenants to have a guarantor. Check whether your agreement includes a guarantor requirement and understands what responsibilities the guarantor accepts.
This is particularly important for international students who may not have a UK-based family member who meets the landlord’s criteria. If a professional guarantor service is an option, confirm that the accommodation provider accepts it and understand any associated costs before signing.
5. Confirm What Bills Are Included
Do not assume that the advertised rent covers all living expenses. Check whether electricity, gas, water, heating, broadband, or other services are included. If bills are excluded, find out how they are paid and whether there are separate arrangements with providers. Government guidance states that included utilities and other bills should be reflected in the tenancy terms.
Conclusion
If any clause is unclear, ask the landlord or accommodation provider for an explanation and consider obtaining independent advice before signing. Taking a little extra time to understand the agreement can help prevent unexpected costs and disagreements later, allowing you to begin university with greater confidence.
