Private Accommodation FAQs
When should I start looking for private rented accommodation?
It is essential to start looking early for private rented accommodation, as soon as you have firmly accepted a place on a course. Demand is highest in the summer so if you are coming to London for the first time, you should be prepared to spend some time and effort in finding somewhere to live.
Please remember that the choice of accommodation available becomes very limited towards the start of term and although the private rented team is here to help you, the final responsibility for finding somewhere to live rests with you. Do not hold unrealistic expectations and make sure you can afford what you are renting.
What is the difference between 'home stay' and 'lodgings' accommodation? And do you offer these types of accommodation?
In both home stay and lodgings the accommodation is shared with the owner and possibly their family. The only difference is that meals are provided in home stays whereas most lodgings are self catering with use of the household kitchen facilities and this is reflected in the cost of rent.
Home stay accommodation is provided by a private company called Britannia. Their contact details are:
tel: +44 (0) 207 436 7738
fax: +44 (0) 207 436 7739
E-mail: info@britanniatravel.com
How do I locate property addresses?
We recommend using online resources like Google maps or Bing maps to locate streets, or alternatively a printed map like the London A to Z. We encourage students to allow themselves time to visit several properties before making a choice.
I have a family or partner, can you accommodate me?
Typically, student accommodation is available to single people, so look in newspapers and use local letting agents to help you in your search.
Students may also wish to contact Nansen Village, a Housing Association which provides accommodation for postgraduate students and their families.
The academic year has started and I’m looking for somewhere to live, can you help?
We can still help you. Log on to Middlesexstudentpad where accommodation information is updated all year round.
What about rents, expenses, and council tax?
Average weekly rents vary between £85 and £115 depending on the area, the facilities available and the general standard of accommodation. Unless you’re living in lodgings, bills for gas, electricity and water are unlikely to be included so you will be expected to pay these separately.
Students sharing a property are exempt from paying Council Tax providing the house is occupied by students only and that no person in the house is a wage earner. Students sharing a property are exempt from paying Council Tax providing the house is occupied by students only and that no person in the house is a wage earner. You will be required to provide confirmation of student status to the owner or Local Authority to obtain exemption or reduction in your bill.
