Let's look at budgets and deciding who to live with

Getting prepared is key to a successful private accommodation search. Start by thinking about who you want to live with, your budget, and what you’re looking for in a home.

Be honest and realistic with yourself about how much you can commit to rent without putting unnecessary strain on yourself and your finances.

Evaluate your financial situation

Calculate how much you can realistically afford to spend on rent each month based on your income sources. This might include:

• Savings: Money you’ve set aside specifically for living expenses.
• Part-time or full-time employment: Regular income from a job.
• Student loans or grants: Funds intended for educational and living costs.
• Financial support: Contributions to your finances from parents, guardians, family members, partners, friends etc.

Factor in Additional Costs

Rent is only part of the equation, make sure to budget for:

• Utilities (water, gas and electricity)
• Internet and phone bills
• Contents insurance
• Transportation (to and from University)
• Household items and furniture
• Maintenance and moving costs.

You might choose to live with friends from your course, a club or society, current housemates, or people you meet at a housemate finding event.

Do not rush into decisions about who to live with, as you will entering into a legally binding agreement with them. A good housemate has a similar lifestyle to you, is trustworthy and isn’t afraid of some washing up. You will have been supported with the shared living agreement in University accommodation. For further guidance on living together, visit our living together section.

Do not worry if you don’t want to live with the people you live with now. Societies, course mates are also options and there will be events throughout the year to help you find housemates. We have networking sites available to students too:

• ResLife programme - is a great way to meet other students and explore your new home.
• Students' Union events - the SU and our groups host events all through the year, such as music events, food fairs and cultural trips.
• Studentpad message board - use the message board to find available rooms and flatmates, or to let students know if there is a room spare in your student house.
• Discord Student of Bath Community - search for student flatmates with other students from University of Bath, Bath Spa University and Norland College. Contact reslife@bath.ac.uk
• Book an appointment with Reslife – we hold a list of students that we are supporting in their search in the private sector.

When choosing where to live, think carefully about your priorities and preferences. There are a few key factors to consider like location, type of accommodation, and number of housemates.

Types of Housing

Different types of housing offer unique living experiences. Think about what suits your lifestyle best:

Renting a shared or whole property (HMO)

This is an option that many students choose, with four to five bedroom properties being the most common size. Studios and one bedroom flats are available but considerably more expensive.

Options vary, but you can expect a 11-12 month contract.

Landlords and agents usually look for groups of students, not individuals, so it is likely you will need to get together with a group you want to live with.

Renting with a resident landlord

Renting a room in a landlord or host family’s home is the most flexible option. Contract lengths are more negotiable, with no minimum length and rent is often more affordable. This makes lodgings a good option for a single semester only.

Purpose built student accommodation

The most similar option to University managed accommodation, but managed by a private company, usually including bills/utilities in the rent.

Rooms can be booked individually, and you’d live with other students, although they may not be from the University of Bath. Several providers offer studios only, which can be expensive, so consider your budget before applying.

Number of Housemates

The size of the household can make a big difference in your experience. Small Groups of 1-3 housemates can be more intimate and easier to manage shared responsibilities like cleaning and bill payments. Larger Groups of 4+ housemates are often more social and potentially lower rent and bills, but may involve more compromises on cleanliness, noise levels, and personal space.

Most Common Option: In many student areas, shared housing with 4/5 tenants is the most typical arrangement. These often strike a balance between affordability and social opportunities.

Location

Where you live can significantly impact your experience as a tenant. Ask yourself:

• Proximity to campus: Would you prefer to live close enough to walk or cycle to lectures, or are you happy to rely on public transport?
• Access to amenities: Being near supermarkets, pharmacies, and other essential services can make day-to-day life easier.
• Social life: Consider whether you want to live near popular student hubs with cafes, bars, and nightlife or in a quieter area.