Private accommodation

Your guide to renting in Brighton & Hove.

Aerial view of houses in Brighton.

Advice on private renting

Our Housing Services team provides tailored support for students renting in the private sector. We can help you by:

  • supporting you to search for student rooms and houses
  • advising you on what to consider before signing a tenancy
  • reviewing your rental agreement, and clarifying terms and conditions
  • sharing practical tips on living in Brighton & Hove across areas like recycling, bin collections and being a considerate neighbour.

We also offer specific guidance for students with families, including advice on renting family-friendly homes.

Finding a student room or house

There are many resources to help you find a student room or house in the private sector.

Social media groups

The University of Sussex House Hunt Discord group is a great way to find housemates and discover available rooms in student houses.

Remember: always be cautious when communicating with people online, and never transfer money without viewing the property or confirming its legitimacy.

Property search websites

Popular sites for finding private accommodation in the UK include:

The University does not review or verify the content on these websites.

Private student halls

Private student halls are owned and operated by third-party providers, not the University. These residences offer similar facilities to campus accommodation, and typically include a mix of shared, ensuite and studio rooms, along with access to communal spaces such as kitchens and social areas.

Rent usually covers utility bills, including energy, water and internet. Most providers offer a 50/51-week contract, although some may offer a 44-week option too.

There are a range of private student halls across Brighton & Hove. As they’re external to Sussex, you’ll need to contact each provider directly for details.

Lodging

Lodging means renting a room in someone’s home, usually with access to shared kitchen facilities. Some lodging arrangements may include meals, and should be discussed with your landlord.

Lodging can be a more affordable option for students, and may suit you if you’re looking for a quieter or more homely environment.

Community engagement

If you’re a local resident, you can report any concerns with students in your area using our community feedback form. 

Depending on the nature of the issue, you may be able to make complaints to Brighton & Hove City Council, Sussex Police, or the landlord/letting agent. While the University of Sussex doesn’t have any enforcement or statutory powers, we may pass serious allegations onto the University’s Student Discipline team for review.

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