Got your offer to uni in Leicester? That’s awesome. But now comes the tricky part finding somewhere to live.
Getting into university is one thing. Figuring out where you're going to sleep, study, and spend your downtime for the next year? That’s a whole other challenge.
As soon as you start browsing student accommodation Leicester, you’ll be swimming in a sea of halls, house shares, private rooms, and confusing contracts. It’s enough to make anyone feel stuck. And the truth is, your accommodation affects way more than just your rent it impacts your health, your studies, and your sanity.
So, before you rush into a contract that sounds decent online but turns out to be a nightmare in real life, give this list a read. These are the 10 crucial things you need to check beforehand because trust me, avoiding one regret is already a big win.
1. Closeness to Campus Isn’t Just About Postcodes
Just because a flat says it’s nearby doesn’t mean the walk is short or easy. A place that’s “only 1 mile from campus” could still take 25 minutes if there’s no direct route or the public transport is unreliable.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Use Google Maps to check the actual route to your building, not just the university in general.
- Do a time check for Monday mornings arrival by 9:00am to see the real commute.
- Check what amenities are nearby too, like shops, gyms, or bus stops.
That 20 minutes each way adds up fast when it’s cold, wet, and your 8:30am seminar wasn’t optional.
2. Always Ask What the Rent Actually Includes
“Bills Included” might sound like peace of mind, but it can easily be misleading. I’ve seen ads where “bills” meant just water, with electricity and heating added later as extras.
Key things to confirm upfront:
- Is broadband covered in the rent?
- Are gas and electricity unlimited or usage-capped?
- Do you get free laundry or is that a pay-per-wash setup?
Winter heating costs on a budget plan can crush you if you're not prepared.
3. Tour the Property Pictures Aren’t Enough
No matter how great the room looks online, don't sign a lease unless you've had a proper look, either virtually or in person.
Ask for:
- A full walk-through, especially of the exact room you’ll be moving into.
- Close-ups of shared spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, and corridors.
- A recent video not one from 2017 when the place was freshly painted.
Photos lie. And filters lie even more.
4. Safety Isn’t Optional Check the Neighborhood at Night
Leicester's got loads of student-friendly areas, but it’s still a city and not every street feels safe when you're walking back after class or a night out.
Here’s what to do:
- View the property at more than one time of day if you can.
- Ask current or former students (especially locals) what areas they trust.
- Google the local crime rate or look up Leicester student forums for feedback.
Your flat shouldn’t just feel safe at noon it needs to feel safe whenever you come and go.
5. You Won’t Just Live in the Room You’ll Live With the People
It may seem minor now, but your housemates will shape your entire experience. Some places let you get to know them beforehand, others don’t.
Ask your letting agent or landlord:
- Can I meet or message the other tenants?
- Is the house mixed gender?
- Are they all undergrads, postgrads, or mixed levels?
It’s nothing personal but sharing a kitchen with five loud 19-year-olds when you’re a quiet MSc student usually doesn’t end well.
6. Read the Terms. All of Them.
Yes, it’s boring. Yes, you should do it anyway. That contract is your safety net, and skipping over the details can cost you.
Pay attention to:
- Lease dates start, end, and any gap in between
- Refund and cancellation policies
- Deposit terms, and where it’s stored (it should be in a government-approved scheme)
- What happens in case of damage, delays, or early departure
If something in the agreement doesn’t make sense, ask someone like your university housing support team to explain it before you commit.
7. Be Cautious With Social Media Listings
Facebook groups and marketplaces are filled with options and unfortunately, scams too. Random listings with no contracts, people insisting on bank transfers right away… it’s risky business.
What’s safer?
Use verified sites like Student Accommodation Guide, where all listings are double-checked and you can compare over 25 trusted providers in one place.
I found my second-year flat through them and saved myself from another round of awkward emails with someone calling themselves “LandlordDave123.”
8. Your Deposit Should Be Safe Like, Legally Safe
If you’re paying a deposit (usually 4–6 weeks' rent), make sure it’s protected. By law, private landlords in the UK need to register your deposit in a tenancy protection scheme.
Ask them:
- Which scheme they use (MyDeposits, TDS or DPS)?
- When will I get confirmation of protection?
- What would cause deductions and how do appeals work?
No scheme = no go.
9. Budget Beyond the Hostel Price Tag
Don’t let the rent figure fool you. Other costs add up quickly even in a student city like Leicester. You’ll need to think ahead about monthly expenses you might forget.
Here’s a sample monthly budget to get you started:
| Item | Avg. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared) | £400–£600 |
| Ensuite room | £600–£750 |
| Bus pass | ~£50 |
| Food + essentials | £150–£200 |
| Laundry, printing | £30–£50 |
It’s better to be slightly over-prepared than fall short in the middle of term.
10. If Something Feels Off, It Probably Is
This one’s the simplest and most important. If a landlord avoids key questions, the price feels “too good,” or the communication just seems off it’s okay to walk away.
That little hint of doubt in your gut? It's usually right.
Wrapping It Up
Finding student accommodation Leicester that’s reliable, affordable, and actually fits your needs may not be easy but it’s 100% doable if you approach it with a plan.
Figure out your top priorities be it location, price, privacy, or housemate vibes and use that as your compass. Take your time. Don’t rush into anything just because others are booking quickly. And don’t be afraid to ask questions housing is a big part of your uni life, and it matters more than you think.
Need some help getting started?
- I’ve created a student checklist you can download before viewings
- Want to compare ensuite vs shared room options? I have a breakdown for that
- Or check out Student Accommodation Guide to browse verified places with real reviews (highly recommend)
You’ve got this. Now, let’s find that perfect place you’ll call home in Leicester.