Student Tenant Rights: What Are They, What You Can, and Cannot Do

The Private Rental Sector (PRS) in the UK is a significant one consisting of 4,6-5 househod or 9 million renters. Of this figure, around 740,000 students are students renting private accommodation or roughly 8% of total PRS. Clearly, students represent an important segment of renters. The rights and responsibilities on private renting also apply to student tenants whether it’s a bed, flat, house, or room that’s being leased from a landlord. However, every renter is also obliged to follow their tenancy agreement including balancing between their rights and the personalization processes of their living space. It is important to respect the property and avoid permanent alterations without making the place an impersonal living space.

Landlords have a vested interest in maintaining their property’s value and ensuring it remains in good condition because a well maintained and aesthetically pleasing property can attract and retain quality tenants. For example, it is their duty and responsibility to ensure that the place you’re renting is in a reasonably good condition meaning it must have plumbing, water, and heating. Hence, it is the owner’s responsibility to undertake significant renovations such as structural changes or major installations. But, the rule is, you must return the property in its original condition as when you first moved into it before vacating the premises. However, as a student, you will also want to personalize your accommodation whether it’s a room or flat that you’re living in.

Small modifications like painting walls or hanging pictures are often permitted but it’s essential to check the lease agreement for specific restrictions before doing anything else. It’s normal that you will want to hang up graduation photo frames, pictures of loved ones, posters, or even a piece of artwork. However, not all proprietors allow you to drill a hole on the wall to hang up your picture frames. The first rule, however, is to ask for permission from the landlord if this is not clearly stipulated in your tenancy agreement. If it is not permitted, there are still ways that you can personalize your walls with photo frames or decor. Stick on adhesives, removable wallpaper, wall decals, and command strips can work without damaging walls or significantly altering the interior of your rented abode. In addition, there are several ways to create a personalized living space. Add area rugs for color, texture, and warmth. Throw pillows and blankets evoke  a special touch to your couch or bed while greenery such as house plants instantly brighten up your space and improve air quality. Moreover, lamps or string lights create a cozy atmosphere whilst shelving units and storage ottomans add an individualised style to your living area.

Currently, the Renters Rights Bill is undergoing an overhaul which will improve the current system giving renters, such as students, greater security and stability while also ensuring that the rights of landlords are protected. If everything goes according to plan, the law is expected to take effect next year in summer or autumn. One of the major provisions under the bill is to abolish section 21 evictions. A simpler tenancy structure will be followed enabling tenants to contest unfair rent increases without fear of being kicked out. The new bill also introduces new safeguard provisions for tenants giving them time to find a home if they are evicted or if the landlord decides to sell their property.

Additionally, the law offers a stronger protection against back door eviction so the tenants can appeal excessive above market prices which might be purely designed to force them out. Currently, landlords can increase rents based on market prices for their properties. In addition, tenants can also request a pet in their dwelling which the landlord must consider and cannot unreasonably refuse. The decent home standard will be applied to the PRS to give renters safer and better value homes. Relatedly, ‘Aawab’s law’ is relevant creating a clear legal timeframe within which landlords must take action to make rented spaces safe, if serious hazards are identified. Another important feature of the bill is to end the practice of rental bidding by not allowing landlords and agents to ask or accept offers above the advertised rent. These are just some of the major features of the overhaul to the current renting bill law.

Overall, a clear understanding of the rights of student tenants and landlords is essential to create a harmonious living environment balancing personal style with property preservation. Open communication between tenants and landlords is also vital the resolve any potential disputes or misunderstandings.