5 Red Flags to Watch Out for When Renting as a Student in the UK

Protect yourself from scams, shady landlords, and unnecessary stress.  

Picture this: you've just got your offer to your ideal UK uni. You're trawling through a thousand of them in search of the ideal student flat — close to campus, not too expensive, with decent Wi-Fi and even some personal space of your own. 

Whatever this high is, it can soon turn disaster-making if you don't keep a weather eye. 

According to the National Union of Students (NUS) Housing Survey 2024, more than 84% of student tenants in the UK experienced difficulties with their living arrangements — ranging from dampness and infestation to ambiguous contracts and inconsiderate landlords. Adding to that, the £4.2 million value of cash students lost due to rental scams they fell for because of Action Fraud UK, it's as clear as the nose on one's face: having secure, safe student housing isn't as simple as it ought to be. 

So how do you keep safe? 

Here are 5 red flags to watch out for — and how sites like Acolyte Living do manage to prevent students from ever even reaching out to them in the first place. 

1. Too-Good-To-Be-True Rent Prices: We all know — London is pricey. With £900 to £1,200 a month for normal student rates, an offer of "large studio with bills" for £500/month must seem like your lucky break. But nine times out of ten, it's a scam. 

These types of ads have one thing on their mind alone: getting students to pay deposits without displaying them the accommodation. There are some that even give actual accommodations but use outdated pictures, taken from the archives of previous ads. 

Always insist on a video visit or meet in person. When booking overseas, attempt utilizing an accredited accommodation website (such as Acolyte Living) whereby the accommodation is pre-accrued and backed up by student ambassadors you are able to contact. 

2. Day-to-day Contracts or Oral Contracts: 1 in 3 students came across contract issues, unexpected charges or shady tenancy terms in 2023. Whatever it is, a rogue private landlord or shifty agency, if you're bullied into signing a contract — or, horror of horrors, not even shown one to look at — that's a red warning flag. 

Your tenancy agreement should be clearly laid out and simple to read. It should include: 

• Rent and payment period 

• Conditions for the deposit 

• Who pays for utilities 

• Duration of tenancy 

• Termination conditions 

Tip: Never sign an oral agreement. And never sign something that you're not sure about. Acolyte Living breaks down each condition before signing, so nothing gets lost in translation. 

3. Not Communicating with Landlords or Poor Communication: When you move out, communication is key. If the guy you're working with isn't around, gives half answers, or is MIA for days — think about how they'll treat you when your shower breaks. 

Unfortunately, 60% of the students in 2024 were left to fend for themselves as much as accommodation was concerned because landlords wouldn't respond. 

Tip: Select locations with robust past support networks and helplines. Acolyte not only finds you excellent accommodation, but also provides aftercare support via WhatsApp, phone, and email — even after you've moved in. 

4. Sneaky Upfront Payment Demands: It's typical for scammers to demand upfront deposits, first month's rent, or "reservation fees" — without even providing you with a receipt or contract. 

One of the most widespread schemes in rental fraud? 

You pay for a room that doesn't exist or already has a renter. 

Tip: Never transfer money until you’ve seen the space or confirmed the agency is legitimate. Acolyte Living ensures all payment processes go through verified, secure channels. You’ll always know where your money is going. 

5. Bad Property Conditions Hidden Behind Polished Photos: You may have heard it occur for another person earlier — gorgeous photographs online, only to find out the house was not so much. Lopsided walls, bathroom mildew, lamp chandeliers cracked, sub-par heating. 

48% of students in the UK last year described an issue of mildew or pests. 

Tip:  Acolyte's campus student ambassador community provide you with real reviews, live video tours, and even let you know exactly what campus community life is really like in real life. Surprise parties — none of that. Straight-up goodness conversation from students like you. 

Why Acolyte Living Keeps You Out of This 

We get it — because we've been there ourselves. Acolyte Living is operated by ex-international students who've experienced the doubt, confusion, and danger of finding themselves in the UK as well. That's why our site is motivated by trust, affection, and genuine student experience at its foundation. 

This is the way we simplify your life: 

✅ Verified listings – No fraud. No deceptive photos. 

✅ Student Ambassadors – Actual mates who assist and guide you. 

✅ Support Teams – WhatsApp, Instagram, email — choose what suits you. 

✅ Post-booking care – We're not disappearing the moment you set foot down. 

✅ Festival-led community building – So you're never on your own. 

Final Thoughts:

To travel overseas to study in the UK as a student is an incredible, exciting leap — and one of hope, not risk. If you listen to these risk warning signs and student-better booking websites, you'll find yourself in a place that's not only safe, but home. 

Book a risk-free, vetted room instead — read on with Acolyte Living today. 

Go to www.acolyteliving.com and we will help you into relocation, worry-free.