The National Union of Students has revealed that “84% of renters” have experienced “some sort of issue in their accommodation” in their autumn 2024 student housing and rent survey.
The report focussed on three main categories: search, experiences, and costs.
The report includes issues such as “mould, damp, plumbing, and noise,” amongst others. The report also details that “48% have experienced mould or mildew, 44% issues with heating or cooling, and 20% with pest infestations”.
In 2024 The Mancunion revealed that there were 140 reports of “rodent activity” at Oak House, in the period of January 2021-March 2024.
The survey was done in line with a mass student campaign across the UK described by the NUS as being against “discriminatory practices, extortionate rents, poor conditions and other inequities in the housing system which are causing hardship, distress and suffering”.
Other statistics found that those in rented accommodation were 22% more likely to disagree with the statement ‘my accommodation is in good condition’ and 40% more likely to disagree with the statement ‘I feel part of the local community where I live’.
A total of 3163 students and apprentices from across the UK were consulted via an online survey. The survey was promoted via Nationbuilder and NUS nation promotion.
The report detailed that out of the 40% of students that live in the private rented sector, 60% required a guarantor while 40% reported they had difficulties securing one.
The report detailed that international students found it particularly difficult to find a UK guarantor, as did those from low-income backgrounds.
Housing costs were also a subject of the report, one which the NUS also confirms as an ongoing problem for students. 36 per cent of students reported having difficulty with the cost of housing, the report also stated that “almost 40% of those report going without heating, and 17% have used a foodbank”.
Greater Manchester Student Renters Union, which helps students with their renting issues including guarantors, holds regular ‘know your rights’ sessions. They are also holding their own survey on issues student renters face in Greater Manchester.
Jason Lee, Chair of Greater Manchester Student Renters Union, says “Guarantors are discriminatory barriers for students who are working-class global majority, queer, disabled or, who may be estranged from their parents. They are in effect a judgement on who is deserving of housing, which we believe to be a right for everyone and that this housing should be safe, accessible and affordable for all”.
Lee also mentioned that “As a European country we are one of the only ones without rent controls”.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority have also introduced the Manchester ‘Good Landlord Charter‘, in an effort to support renters in the Greater Manchester area.
