Student accommodation providers face unique challenges because of the needs of their residents, and the special regulatory framework which applies to student accommodation.

Universities have a dual role – as education providers and housing providers – and we understand the practical and legal issues this can cause. Our specialist property lawyers can help university accommodation managers find solutions to the problems they encounter, and we provide training and strategic advice to help universities manage their accommodation effectively.

Private-sector accommodation providers also have to deal with the challenges of vulnerable residents, and complex regulations. We are recognised for our expertise in houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and property licensing, and we experienced applying this to the student market.

Who we can advise

• Universities and other educational bodies
• Private providers of student accommodation, including purpose-built student accommodation
• Private landlords with student accommodation

What we can advise on

• We can advise you on the correct type of rental agreement and help you keep it up to date to comply with changes to the law. Good drafting of agreements helps prevent conflicts before they become more serious.
• We can assist with challenging situations, for example, a student not paying their accommodation fees or refusing to leave the hall at the end of their contract. We can also help if a student breaches the terms of their agreement or engages in anti-social behaviour while staying in halls.
• We can provide advice to landlords and property managers on health and safety issues including fire safety and repairing obligations. We have extensive experience with regulatory issues relating to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and local authority licensing.
• We can also provide training to property managers.
• We can advise you on your policies relating to vulnerable students and students with disabilities to ensure you are meeting your obligations under equality legislation.
• Where accommodation is being used to house staff, bed-and-breakfast accommodation or is let to non-students, we can advise on the legal implications and prepare bespoke contracts.
• We can help you plan for changes in the law, making sure that you are ready to deal with new regulatory obligations and changes to landlord and tenant law.

Our solicitors are highly experienced in this very technical and specialist area of the law. You can make an enquiry with our firm or any of our lawyers with no obligation to instruct us. We will always agree on a price for our services with you in advance, so you can be confident you know what to expect.