Common mistakes students make when renewing or transferring accommodation
October 30, 2025
By The Stay Club London
Common Mistakes Students Make When Renewing or Transferring Accommodation
There’s a great feeling of relief when you’ve made it through the year, coursework completed, new friends made, and great experiences shared. But one common question during renewal season is:
Do I renew my student accommodation or move somewhere new?
When you’ve been settled in your home away from home for a while, it isn’t something that crosses your mind. For some, it may feel like a small decision, but actually renewing or transferring your student housing can have significant implications. From cost to convenience, you also need to assess your overall student wellbeing and social life. It’s easy to rush the process and miss key deadlines as it’s the last thing on your mind, but thinking about it early takes away any unnecessary stress and unexpected expenses.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common mistakes students make when renewing or transferring student accommodation. Not only will this guide you on what to avoid, but arm you with all the right advice for a smooth, simple and smart move.
Mistake 1: Waiting Too Late to Decide
How many of us are guilty of leaving things to the last minute? One of the biggest student accommodation renewal pitfalls is leaving your decision too late. We understand that you have other priorities, such as exams, so it falls off the to-do list. Also, you may be unsure what your next semester actually looks like. It’s not unheard of that your current room may already be booked by someone else if you haven’t decided in time, or your preferred alternatives might already be fully occupied by other students who were more on the ball. By delaying the process, not only are you limiting your options, but you’re also reducing your negotiating power. Prime student properties are always in high demand, and renewal windows can close fast. So by waiting, you may miss out on renewal discounts, leading to higher rates later on.
How to avoid it:
Set yourself calendar reminders for renewal deadlines as soon as your provider announces them.
Review your current lease and look at your plans at least two months in advance.
Research other accommodation options early, so you can make an informed decision instead of a rushed one.
Being proactive and getting ahead of the curve gives you more flexibility and ensures you get the best room at the best price.
Mistake 2: Overlooking Contract Terms and Renewal Clauses
Another common renewal issue is not reading the fine print in the terms and conditions. Students often assume that the renewal contract will be exactly the same as their current one, but sadly, this isn’t always the case. In the last few years, we’ve seen changes to rent rates, new payment schedules, and updates to notice periods and break clauses, which could impact your flexibility. Contract details can lead to misunderstandings if you ignore them. For instance, you might discover later on that the renewal term is longer than expected, or that you’re not allowed to leave mid-semester without a penalty. How to avoid it: - Read the full renewal agreement carefully before signing, and if in doubt, get a parent or guardian to check it as well.
Look for any changes in rent, inclusions (like utilities or cleaning), and cancellation policies.
Confirm whether you’re signing a fixed-term or rolling tenancy.
Don’t hesitate to ask your housing provider to explain anything unclear or to clarify if certain terms can be adjusted. Knowing exactly what you’re committing to prevents unwelcome surprises later.
Mistake 3: Ignoring the Condition of the Current Property
When you’re comfortable in your accommodation and have been there for a few months, it’s not uncommon to overlook any scuffs, wear, or maintenance issues. Sadly, if you don’t address them before your renewal is up, this can lead to deposit disputes or repair frustrations later on. This is a common student housing mistake because students can be accustomed to living with their parents, and any wear and tear will be automatically fixed or ignored. If any damage does go unreported, then this might be attributed to you when your tenancy comes to an end.
How to avoid it
Carry out a fresh inventory check before signing a renewal or transferring rooms.
Take photos or videos that are timestamped of your current space as evidence of its condition.
Submit any maintenance requests in writing for issues you notice, regardless of how big or small they are, from a leaky tap to damaged furniture or scuffed walls. This not only protects your deposit but also ensures your next term begins in a well-maintained, comfortable living space.
Mistake 4:Failing to Reassess Location and Lifestyle Needs
One of the biggest pitfalls when changing accommodation is not reviewing your current location and set up, and seeing if it works for your lifestyle. Perhaps your next classes have moved to another campus, or your internship is in a completely different part of the city or town. Maybe you want a quieter room, better nearby amenities, or a more social environment. University is only a short time in your life, so you want to make the most of it. Staying in the same place by default can hold you back from other opportunities you haven’t thought of yet.
How to avoid it:
Reflect on what you need for the upcoming term. Is it proximity to university, transport links, and social or study balance?
Visit new accommodation options or talk to current residents about their experience.
Consider whether upgrading your space or moving closer to key facilities might make day-to-day life easier. The Stay Club, for instance, offers flexible locations and room types designed to adapt to different student lifestyles. A great option if your priorities evolve over time.
Mistake 5: Misjudging Cost Changes and Hidden Fees
Another frequent student accommodation renewal mistake is assuming that rent and fees will stay the same as last time. Many students forget to look for any rent increases, additional charges, or changes in what’s included in the bottom line price. Take utilities or the internet for example. Although they were part of your rent previously, are they now a separate cost for the new term? Also, check to see if there are any admin or cleaning fees for transferring student housing that aren’t obvious at first.
How to avoid it:
Ask for a full cost breakdown before renewing or transferring.
Clarify whether prices are all-inclusive and what exactly that covers (utilities, Wi-Fi, laundry, etc.).
Compare total yearly costs between staying and moving. Sometimes paying slightly more for convenience and included services can actually save money long-term.
Where you live has a big impact on your student life for both study and downtime. Understanding your financial commitments early on ensures that you can budget confidently and avoid any unwanted admin mid-semester. Planning and attention to detail are key for an stress-free renewal or transfer process. Avoiding the points mentioned can save you time, money and headaches later. With any contract, check it over, pause to review your options, and evaluate whether the housing still fits your needs before signing anything.
Thankfully, if you’re looking for flexibility and reliability, The Stay Club provides modern student accommodation across multiple locations with transparent pricing. Plus, our helpful staff are always on hand to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re renewing, transferring or exploring new options altogether, The Stay Club is a smart choice for your future student accommodation. Explore our options at thestayclub.com
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