Can you change accommodation at university?

Whether you’re not getting on with your housemates or planning to transfer universities, there are lots of reasons why you might need to change accommodation while at uni.

Unfortunately, leaving student accommodation can be tricky and time-consuming. This blog will cover the 3 main types of student accommodation and the best way to leave or change accommodation wherever you’re living...

Types of student accommodation

If you’ve chosen to live away from home, there are 3 main types of student accommodation you can choose from:

University halls of residence

This is the most popular type of student accommodation for first-year students. Most first-years will be offered a place at university halls of residence, but you’ll typically only live there for your first year. 

Privately rented accommodation 

This is the most popular type of accommodation for second and third-year students. Although you’ll likely be further away from campus, you’ll get to choose your group of friends to live with! 

Privately rented student accommodation is usually in the form of shared houses. Many landlords now offer student accommodation with all bills included to make it easier for students.

Private sector halls of residence

These are very similar to university halls of residence, except they’re owned and managed by commercial companies rather than the university. They’re usually located in the city centre or nearby to the university. These halls are purpose-built and can offer premium student living with extra amenities, including gyms and cinema rooms.

Can you leave or change university halls of residence?

It might be possible to leave your university halls of residence part way through the academic year if you’re leaving, transferring university or taking a leave of absence. Your university will most likely ask you to fill out a form to tell them that your situation has changed. 

However, you’ll still typically be required to pay rent until a replacement tenant can be found. You might also be required to pay for the next term, depending on how far it is through the academic year. You should check your contract thoroughly and speak to your accommodation services.

You'll likely have to submit a request if you just want to swap rooms or move to private accommodation. You'll also likely need to find a replacement tenant before the university accepts a room transfer.

Some universities will only consider a room change if there are extenuating circumstances, and you might have to pay an administration fee. Check your university’s website to find out what their policy is. 

Can you leave or change private university accommodation?

If you want to leave privately rented student accommodation or private sector residence halls, you’ll need to end your accommodation contract early. If your landlord refuses, you or your guarantor will be liable to pay rent for the remaining academic year.

How to get out of a student accommodation contract

If your landlord agrees to let you leave before the end of the academic year, they’ll likely require you to find a replacement tenant. Make sure you talk to your existing housemates about this, as they’ll be the ones living with them! You can advertise for a replacement tenant on social media, your university’s website, or sites like Spare Room. 

How UniHomes can help

If you’re currently unhappy with your current accommodation and thinking of moving, UniHomes can help. 

We advertise thousands of student properties across the UK (from experienced and trusted landlords). The best part? Every single one of them comes with all bills included!

You won’t need to stress about setting up and paying complex utility bills or even your TV Licence! Everything is included in one neat monthly payment. 

Have a look at our range of fantastic properties and find the perfect home to move to without unnecessary hassle – or just use us to manage your utilities.