New Rules for Student Housing Management in England: What You Need to Know

The UK government has introduced new regulations aimed at improving the management of student accommodations across England. Here’s a breakdown of what this means for students, universities, and local councils.

Overview of the New Legislation

The Student Accommodation (Codes of Management Practice and Specified Educational Establishments) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 updates the guidelines for managing student housing. A significant part of this legislation is the approval of a new code of practice specifically designed for university housing, replacing the previous version. This code is set by Universities UK and GuildHE, organizations that represent UK universities, and aims to ensure high standards in student housing.

Key Changes and Their Implications

1. New Standards for Student Housing: The revised code introduces updated requirements to ensure that student accommodations meet modern standards, including sustainability, environmental impact, and student wellbeing.

2. Exemption from HMO Licensing: Certain educational institutions will be exempt from Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing for their student accommodations. This means that universities adhering to the approved codes won’t need local councils to inspect their student housing for licensing purposes, reducing the administrative burden.

3. Focus on Purpose-Built Student Accommodation: The regulations emphasize the use of specific codes of practice for purpose-built student accommodations (PBSA), as opposed to generic housing standards. This tailored approach aims to maintain high living standards for students.

Consultation and Development

The revised code was developed after extensive consultation with stakeholders, including universities, student bodies, and housing experts. The process, which began in 2022, involved feedback from various educational and housing organizations to ensure the code aligns with current practices and legislative requirements.

Impact on Institutions and Students

For educational establishments, adherence to the new code is voluntary but crucial for exemption from HMO licensing. This encourages universities to maintain high management standards in their accommodations. For students, the changes promise improved living conditions and clearer expectations from their housing providers.

Monitoring and Future Updates

The department responsible for housing will monitor the implementation of these regulations through reports from the code administrators. Updates to the legislation will be made as necessary to reflect changes in membership of the approved codes.

Conclusion

These new regulations represent a significant step towards ensuring that student accommodations in England are safe, well-managed, and fit for modern living. By focusing on specific standards for student housing, the government aims to reduce regulatory burdens while maintaining accountability and high living standards for students.