After the eagerly anticipated A-level results declaration, a considerable portion of students are bracing for a demanding venture in securing suitable living spaces.
Sources have disclosed that several universities are mulling over temporary lodging arrangements such as hotel stays or shared rooms equipped with bunk beds.
Within the realm of private student rentals, a pressing issue is unfolding due to a lack of available accommodations coupled with a surge in demand. This, coupled with the introduction of the Renters Reform Bill, many students will now struggle with the difficult task of locating suitable lodgings.
Shifting Landlord Landscape; Problems after A-Level results
Recent insights from Save the Student reveal that approximately 46% of students opt for accommodations managed by private landlords during A-levels term time—a noteworthy increase of 6% compared to 2022 figures.
However, the decreasing number of landlords specialising in student housing has made the situation worse, leaving students in confusion when it comes to securing living spaces.
Experts have stressed the urgency for immediate support for renters in the months ahead and have underscored the difficult challenges tied to the annual influx of A-level students into the private rented sector. This year’s circumstance is further complicated by a reduction in available landlords.
Concerns Over the Renters Reform Bill; A-Level Students in a Crisis
Complications are heightened by the impending enactment of the Renters Reform Bill, featuring a ban on fixed-term tenancies. This change could prompt student landlords to exit the rental market. It’s noteworthy that purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) providers are exempt from this proposal, retaining the ability to offer fixed-term contracts.
Ben Beadle, CEO of the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), contends that fixed-term tenancies should be an option within the private rental sector.
In a Twitter post, he expressed, “Students could be left to start term in hotel or bunk beds. The Renters’ Reform Bill will only worsen this supply crisis. It is important that the provisions allowed for the PBSA sector are extended to the student PRS.”
Conclusion
The pursuit of suitable student accommodations post A-level results is taking a challenging turn. This intricate balance between demand, supply, and legislative changes, emphasises the need for proactive measures to ease the pressure on students seeking housing for their educational journey.
