We know that trying to find accommodation can be a very stressful experience at the best of times, but when you add in trying to prepare for a new academic year into the mix too it can all prove to be a bit much.
Whilst we at the University of Plymouth Students’ Union cannot provide a property for you, we can offer you some advice on what to do and where to look.
It can be a bit daunting to understand some of the basics, including what is meant by private-sector accommodation for students.
The below link to a page on the University website gives you a bit of help in trying to get your head around that: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/accommodation/private-sector
When looking for a property we would always suggest that you undertake an internet search of accommodation providers/letting agents within the Plymouth area. Rightmove and Zoopla are two such examples of places to go to search for student accommodation.
Social Media can also prove to be a useful tool in hunting a room, often for single occupancy. Spareroom is one such site but there also pages on Facebook that are run by us at UPSU, which allows students to advertise rooms they no longer need, or put out posts asking if anybody knows of one going free.
You can find them at:
University Halls
As things stand University-managed halls are fully booked, and they currently have a large waiting list for accommodation for either University-managed or rooms in the private sector. But if you wish to be added to the waitlist, you can call them on 01752 588644 (between 10am – 2pm weekdays) where they will be able to take your preferences. If they can offer you a room, they will be in contact.
Short term accommodation
You could consider obtaining short term accommodation whilst waiting for something more permanent, but you need to be aware that could prove far more costly if it takes longer than you would hope to find that place you are looking for.
If short-term accommodation is a route you would like to go down, you may wish to look over the following link detailing guesthouses and B&Bs in Plymouth, many of which are within walking distance of the university
Platforms worth considering for searching:
If you are considering booking through a site such as Amber Student, we would recommend that you ensure that you read reviews on a verified site, such as Trust Pilot
Checking your contract
It is important that you also know that as a Students’ Union Advice Team, we do offer a free contract checking service. If that is something, you would like to take advantage off then please forward us a copy of your tenancy agreement to advice@su.plymouth.ac.uk and we will be happy to read through it and offer comment.
Considerations when looking
We would always say that it is best to view somewhere in person, if possible, to ensure you are happy with the property and the location. Photographs of properties posted on the internet may not be accurate.
Last Updated: February 2024