Private rental accommodation guide
Renting in London: what you need to know
Finding private accommodation in London can feel fast-moving and competitive – especially if you’re new to the UK. This guide gives you clear, practical steps to help you budget, choose an area, view properties safely and sign a contract with confidence. This is general guidance for private renting in England. Individual landlords may have additional requirements.
Budgeting
Work out what you can afford
Before you start searching, set a realistic monthly budget.
You’ll need to factor in:
• rent
• utilities (gas, electricity, water)
• internet
• food and household essentials
• travel
• study materials
• socialising and lifestyle costs
Generally aim to spend no more than 50% of your income on rent and utilities.
Managing bills
Depending on your tenancy, bills may be included – or on top of your rent.
Council Tax
Full-time students living only with other full-time students are exempt from Council Tax.
Utilities
You may pay:
• bills directly to suppliers
• a service charge
• or have bills included in rent
Check this carefully before signing any contract.
Some further useful advice on managing utility bills can be found on the Shelter housing advice page.
Internet & TV Licence
Internet is not always included. In shared properties, choose a package with sufficient bandwidth.
You need a TV licence (£180 annually) if watching terrestrial channels or BBC iPlayer.
Choosing Where to Live
Location affects:
• rent prices
• commute time
• lifestyle
• community
Key areas Northeastern University London students often consider
East London (Tower Hamlets, Newham)
More affordable than central areas, with fast connections into Zone
1. Expect a dynamic mix of cultures, street food, markets and new developments alongside established communities. Popular with students and young professionals who want value and energy.
Greenwich & Lewisham
Mid-range pricing with a strong neighbourhood feel. Greenwich offers riverside views, parks and a historic setting; Lewisham is well connected and residential with growing café culture. A good balance of space, community and access to central London.
Central London (City & Westminster)
Premium rents in exchange for walk-to-campus convenience and proximity to major cultural landmarks, business districts and nightlife. Fast-paced and compact — ideal if you prioritise minimal commute and being at the heart of everything.
Camden & Islington
Creative, lively and well connected. Think music venues, independent shops and canal-side walks. Often a good compromise between central access and slightly more manageable rents. Popular with students seeking character and atmosphere.
South London (Wandsworth, Clapham, Brixton, Peckham)
Vibrant and social with strong food, music and arts scenes. Mid-range pricing and good transport links. Offers a mix of shared houses and flats, often with a more residential feel than Zone 1.
Outer London (Zone 3+)
Lower rents and more space, often in quieter neighbourhoods. Expect longer commutes but potentially larger rooms and better value. Suitable if budget and space are priorities.
Check rental prices
Use the London Rents Map to compare average monthly rents across boroughs.
Transport costs
Northeastern University London campus is in Zone 1.
A Student Oyster photocard gives you a 30% discount on a monthly pass.
CTA Apply for a Student Oyster photocard.
Zones Student Oyster Monthly Cost
1-2 £119.90
1–3 £141.00
1–4 £172.50
1–5 £205.10
Bus fare: £1.75 per journey.
Always check TfL for latest pricing.
Finding a Rental Property
Property websites
Adverts from real estate agents listing properties on behalf of landlords.
Room finding websites
For those looking to rent a room in an existing shared house.
Spareroom.
Private student accommodation resources
For university students looking to secure a place in unaffiliated halls of residences or student-specific accommodation. uhomes.com
(Northeastern University London does not endorse third-party platforms.)
When to start looking
London moves fast.
Properties are usually listed 1–2 months before availability.
Start your search 4–5 weeks before moving.
Weekly vs monthly rent
If rent is listed weekly:
(Weekly rent × 52) ÷ 12 = Monthly cost
There are not exactly four weeks in a month – budget accurately.
Viewing a property
Always view before signing a contract or paying a deposit.
During a viewing:
Check:
• the property is well maintained
• room sizes and layout
• heating & electrics
• water pressure
• locks and security
• signs of damp or mould
• appliances
• is the property furnished
Ask:
• how long has the property been on the market?
• what is the surrounding neighbourhood like?
• are bills are included or average costs of utilities?
• any renovation or improvement work carried out?
• internet speed?
• Energy Performance Certificate rating?
Visit at different times of day if possible.
Bring a friend – especially for evening viewings.
Remember to take photos to remind yourself of the rooms and layout.
Avoiding Scams
Never:
• rent somewhere you haven’t viewed in person
• pay anything before viewing
• pay with cash
• share bank details without a contract
Red flags:
• very low price
• no address listed
• pressure to pay immediately
• landlord difficult to contact
• poor state of repair
• mould and dampness
If in doubt, walk away.
Before you sign a tenancy agreement, it’s important to understand what checks landlords carry out, what type of tenancy you’re being offered, and how your deposit is protected. The sections below explain what to expect and what to look out for.
Reference Checks
Before offering you a tenancy, landlords or letting agents will usually carry out checks to confirm:
• your identity
• your right to rent in England
• your ability to pay rent (for example, income evidence or a guarantor)
These checks are standard for most private rentals.
International Students – Right to Rent
Before a tenancy can be agreed, landlords must check that each adult tenant has the Right to Rent in England.
You have the right to rent if you have:
• valid immigration permission (e.g. a Student visa)
• settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
• immigration permission under the UK points-based system (including dependants)
Helpful guidance is available via UKCISA.
If you are unsure about your documentation, seek advice before signing a contract.
Guarantor requirements
Some landlords may require a guarantor, particularly if:
• you have limited income
• you have little or no UK credit history
• you are an international student
A guarantor is usually:
• a UK resident
• financially stable
• legally responsible for covering your rent if you are unable to pay
If you cannot provide a UK-based guarantor, some companies offer paid guarantor services including UK Guarantor and Housing Hand
Please note:
• not all landlords accept third-party guarantor services.
• always confirm this with the landlord or agent in advance.
• Northeastern University London does not endorse specific guarantor providers.
Types of Tenancy
Understanding your tenancy type is important, as it affects your rights.
Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST)
The most common type for private student rentals.
An AST usually means:
• the property is your main home
• the landlord does not live in the property
Other Tenancy Types (Less Common for Students)
• Excluded tenancy (lodger arrangement) – where you live with your landlord
• Assured tenancy – longer-term tenancy with stronger security
• Company let – where a company rents the property on someone’s behalf
If you are unsure which type you are being offered, seek advice before signing.
Deposits & deposit protection
You will usually pay a deposit before moving in. This is typically up to 5–6 weeks’ rent.
By law:
• your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme
• you must receive prescribed information within 30 days
• this explains how your deposit is protected and how it will be returned
You can check approved schemes and guidance on GOV.UK.
Signing a Tenancy Agreement
Most students sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST).
Before signing:
• read the full contract
• confirm rent, duration and notice periods
• ensure names and address are correct
• check what bills are included
You should receive:
• the government How to Rent guide
• deposit protection scheme details
Your rights & responsibilities
Your rights:
• a property meeting legal safety standards
• deposit protection
• protection from unfair eviction
• fair rent increases
Your responsibilities:
• pay rent on time
• report repairs
• respect the property
• pay agreed bills
Find out more about your rights and responsibilities here.
Renters’ Rights Act (From 1 May 2026)
Key changes:
• no “no-fault” evictions
• most tenancies become rolling (periodic)
• rent increases limited to once per year
• greater tenant flexibility
Inventory
Before moving in, check the inventory carefully.
Photograph:
• furniture condition
• appliances
• existing damage
Report issues immediately to avoid deposit deductions later.
Need Help?
Planning where to live is an important step in preparing for life at Northeastern University London. If you’d like personalised guidance, contact us to arrange a housing appointment and explore your options with a member of our team or seek independent advice.
Northeastern University London is a charity
registered with the Charity Commission for
England and Wales (charity number 1189858).
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58 St Katharine’s Way
London E1W 1LP, UK
+44 20 7637 4550
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