Supply and Demand of Rental Accommodation

The increase in the number of purpose-built predominantly ensuite rental accommodation for letting to students in addition to a good supply of shared student houses/flats ensures Sheffield currently has a surplus of private sector accommodation.

The most common form of student housing to let is for groups of four. There is also a good supply of accommodation for groups of three and five students. Accommodation for groups of two or six or more are in short supply and there is also usually a high demand. Self-contained flats/studios/bedsits and accommodation suitable for couples/families to rent are also in short supply.

There are two peak periods during the year when searching is highest for student rental accommodation. The first is from November onwards each year when many of the larger landlords and letting agents, in addition to propertywithUS, start advertising accommodation for the next academic year. The second is in August and September when new and some current students search for accommodation just before the start of the academic year.

Please note, most landlords will require you to sign a fixed term contract, for between nine and twelve months, which is legally binding, for private housing. Housing Advisors from the Student Advice Centre will be happy to check contracts/agreements with students before they are signed. Those students who require private sector housing for less than an academic year will find it very difficult and are advised to read the publication Looking for Short Term Accommodation (PDF).