There is a good opportunity in renting to international students, but there are special challenges related to it. This guide considers the most prevalent errors that landlords commit and how to prevent them to make tenancies perfect and to secure a stable flow of revenues. StudentTenant.com links international students with UK landlords so that it becomes easier to rent a property with trusted tenants.
What common mistakes do landlords make when renting to international students?
It’s easy to assume international students know how UK renting works, but many are unfamiliar with deposit rules, council tax exemptions, and utility setup. Without clear guidance, confusion quickly leads to disputes.
Assuming students know deposit protection rules
Not explaining council tax exemptions for full-time students
Overlooking utility set-up responsibilities
Using complex legal language in contracts
Tip: Always use plain-language documents. Include deposit scheme details, council tax guidance, and utility instructions in step-by-step format. Clear and simple communication reduces misunderstandings and fosters trust. For additional clarity, see Essential Tips for First-Time Landlords in the United Kingdom.
How do landlords fail to communicate effectively with international students?
Long emails and heavy legal jargon can overwhelm students who are still adjusting to life in the UK. Essential details often get lost.
Sending lengthy, confusing instructions
Failing to confirm understanding
Ignoring helpful formats like visual guides or translations
Tip: Break down instructions into short steps. Provide simple visuals or short videos on topics such as recycling or appliance use. Always confirm students have understood key points.
Why do landlords lose trust by neglecting cultural differences?
Different cultures have varying habits regarding heating, noise, and shared spaces. Ignoring these can create tension in student homes.
Not clarifying local noise rules
Failing to explain heating and ventilation
Assuming waste and recycling rules are obvious
Tip: Provide a house guide with clear instructions on noise, heating, and recycling. Explain the “why” behind rules, so students see them as fair and reasonable.
What payment mistakes do landlords make with international students?
Rigid payment structures often block students who lack UK guarantors or face bank delays.
Demanding only monthly UK transfers
Rejecting students without UK guarantors
Offering no flexible payment schedules
Tip: Offer alternatives like termly payments, larger upfront deposits, or recognised guarantor services. Flexibility expands your applicant pool and reduces late payments.
How do landlords overlook safety and comfort?
Safety and comfort are priorities for students and their families, yet these are sometimes overlooked.
Not emphasising gas safety and fire compliance
Poor security or lighting
Worn or unsuitable furnishings
Tip: Keep safety checks up to date, test alarms, and enhance locks and lighting. Fix worn furniture before move-in. Promote these features in listings for added appeal.
Why is furnishing important and how do landlords get it wrong?
Students travel light. They expect a ready-to-use space, not an empty flat.
Advertising “furnished” without listing actual items
Forgetting essentials like a desk or cookware
Expecting students to buy basics on arrival
Tip: Provide a complete inventory of furniture, including desks, beds, wardrobes, and basic kitchenware. Add starter packs for cleaning. This avoids disputes and boosts positive reviews. For a full checklist, see Steps to Take Before Listing Property for Rent.
How do landlords damage listings?
Students abroad rely heavily on listings. Poor photos and missing details reduce interest.
Using low-quality or few photos
Leaving out bills or unclear costs
Not including the distance to universities or transport
Tip: Use bright, clear photos of every room. State rent, bills, deposit, and contract length clearly. Add travel times to universities. Transparency speeds up enquiries.
What legal and tenancy mistakes do landlords make?
Outdated agreements and inadequate documentation often lead to disputes.
Using generic contracts without student-specific clauses
Skipping inventories
Not clarifying responsibilities
Tip: Use agreements tailored for students. Document everything with signed inventories and photos. Set clear repair processes and timelines.
What pastoral mistakes push students to leave early?
International students often require additional support when adjusting to their new environment. Failing to address this can lead to early lease breaks.
Not sharing local or health info
Not pointing to support networks
Staying distant instead of being approachable
Tip: Provide a concise local guide that includes GP registration information, supermarkets, transportation details, and emergency contact numbers. Direct students to support services. Being approachable reduces early terminations.
What pricing mistakes affect student properties?
Mispricing is a common issue, often resulting in lengthy voids or disputes.
Ignoring academic-year demand cycles
Hiding or adding unclear charges
Not considering local affordability
Tip: Research demand cycles and local pricing. Be transparent about bills. For deeper advice, see Factors to Consider When Setting Rental Prices: A Guide for UK Landlords.
Conclusion
Renting to foreign students may be a good and consistent market, as long as landlords do not fall into these pitfalls. Culture awareness, clarity, right pricing, and appropriate safety ensure that tenancies run well and vacancies are reduced. This is where StudentTenant.com makes a real difference. By listing with Student Tenant, landlords connect directly with international students who are actively searching for housing across the UK. The platform improves visibility, attracts reliable tenants, and reduces voids. In short, Student Tenant helps landlords secure better tenants, fill properties faster, and maximise rental outcomes.