Can I share with non-students?
As a university student in the UK, it is generally allowed to share private accommodation with non-students. However, there are a few important things you've got to remember.
Firstly, you should ensure that your tenancy agreement allows for non-student tenants. Some accommodation is student specific so are only be available to students. It is often quite easy to see if it is student only too, as some letting agencies are called ‘student accommodation’ or ‘student lettings’ - the clue is in the name!
Council tax is also something you should be aware of. If you are living with non-students you will have to pay council tax. Those in full-time education don't have to pay, but if someone in your household is not then council tax will apply (you may still get a discount, so research this beforehand!).
Also there may be some local regulations that may apply. Some places actually have restrictions on who can live together, so it's important to check with your local council or housing authority before making any arrangements.
Although this may sound boring, you should also consider the impact this may have on your studies. Living with a non-student may mean that you have different schedules and priorities, which could affect your ability to study effectively. Or if you are someone that likes to go out and they work, it may not be a great setup! It's important to have open and honest communication with your potential roommate to ensure that you can both respect each other's needs and priorities. For more top tips on who to live with, have a look at our blog on how should I decide who to live with?
Overall, while it is generally allowed for university students in the UK to share accommodation with non-students, it's important to check your tenancy agreement, local regulations, and potential impact on your studies before making any arrangements.
To find the best student accommodation available in your city, search Accommodation for Students today.