How can you find private accommodation?

Southampton has a thriving Private Rented market, and a large student population - whilst at first the idea of finding accommodation in private sector may seem daunting, once you have equipped yourself with some basic knowledge about how everything works you should be able to find a suitable property.

Once you have been through the previous steps and thought about when you are going to look, whereabouts you would like to live, who you would like to live with and what sort of property you are after you should consider the following:

  • If you don't already have housemates in mind, use the Message Boards on www.sassh.co.uk.
  • Get a feel for the areas in Southampton - look at what is on the Uni-Link bus route, and where local amenities are situated
  • Check www.sassh.co.uk to view the SASSH Housing lists for available property - contact the landlord and arrange a viewing before agreeing to take a property
  • Do several viewings before deciding on a property - do not feel pressured into taking the first thing that you see. Make sure that you use the Viewing Checklist.
  • When you find a property that you like make sure that you are clear on the rent and any additional costs. The landlord/letting agent will ask you to sign a contract - read our Contract Guide and then read your contract carefully and ask the Accommodation Service to check it for you before you sign - letting agents should always supply a "sample agreement" even if it doesn't have your name and details on it.
  • When you sign the contract you will probably be asked to pay a deposit. New legislation means that this now has to be paid into a government run scheme, offering you protection from unfair deductions. Please see our leaflet on the Tenancy Deposit Scheme for further details.
  • Ask people you already know in private rented accommodation. Would they recommend their landlord/letting agent?