Housing checklist: tips and tenant rights when studying in Europe

Have you decided to study in Europe or are you still exploring your options? Either way, finding the right student housing is a crucial step.

In this article, we'll provide you with information and tips to ensure you to start your search for student housing well-informed.

First things first: contact your university

Reach out to your host university's housing or international office. They are best placed to provide you with information on available housing options, both on-campus and off-campus, and guide you through the process.

Before signing a contract

Common contract types in Europe include

• indefinite period contracts (no fixed end date)
• definite contracts (fixed end date)
• short-term contracts (temporary stays)

Contracts often include information about the amount of rent and charges, the security deposit, and the notice period.

Before signing, ensure you read the contract thoroughly. If it's in a language you don't understand, ask national authorities or your host institution for help.

Security deposit

Renting also requires paying a security deposit. Often, this could amount to one or several months worth of rent. Rules vary depending on the country so make sure to check what rules apply to you.

The security deposit will be refunded to you if you leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in.

Notice period

If you decide to move out, you must notify your landlord in advance or you risk losing the security deposit. The landlord must also give notice in advance if they want you to move out.

Make sure to read the rental contract carefully and check what are the notice periods and how to submit it (for example, by email or registered mail).

Other considerations

• always view the property before signing a contract
• check whether your accommodation is furnished
• consider taking out property insurance
• never send money until you’ve signed a rental contract and had direct exchanges with the property owner or agent
• you may need a guarantor, so if you're planning to rent a private apartment, it's advisable to have a letter from your guarantor ready

Where to look

Some useful platforms to start looking for student accommodation are

• HousingAnywhere: an international booking platform where students going on an exchange or an internship abroad can sublet their room or rent a room
• Uniplaces: on online marketplace for booking student accommodations with thousands of verified properties
• ErasmusU: student housing platform and online community for students