Living independently
Many students prefer to live independently in the local area rather than in halls of residence. You might choose to rent a room in a house or flat with other students, for example.
Don't forget that Accommodation Services is available to help if you need advice on contracts or have any other concerns about where you live. You might also like to view our list of frequently asked questions or our househunting overview.
Finding somewhere to live
- How do I find a property using a letting agent?
Lettings agents can help you find a suitable property, set up contracts and inventories for you. Download a list of letting agents (PDF).
- What is the daily vacancy list and how do I use it?
Our free daily vacancy list advertises the latest room and property vacancies for Kingston students. It is usually available from June onwards. Read more.
- What is the student-to-student noticeboard and how do I use it?
The student-to-student noticeboard lets you get in touch with other students who are looking for flatmates. It is usually available from June each year. Read more.
After you've moved in
- How do I get a smoke detector?
You can contact London Fire Brigade for a free home fire visit. They will offer fire safety advice and fit a free smoke detector if needed. Read more.
- What is council tax exemption and how do I get it?
Most full-time students are exempt from paying council tax. To prove you are exempt, your local council will normally require you to have a council tax exemption certificate. You can get one from any of the information points (located in any University LRC) or from Cooper House reception once you've completed your enrolment. Read more.
- Do I need to take out insurance?
Yes, we strongly advise that you take out personal possessions insurance to cover any belongings you bring to Kingston. We accept no liability for loss or damage to personal property. Read more.
- What are my rights and responsibilities as a tenant?
Your tenancy agreement is a legal contract, which sets out the terms upon which you can occupy a property. You have the right to live peacefully in your flat or house. Read more.
- Can I get a discount on travel?
Yes, if you are a full-time student, you can apply for discounted travel on the Transport for London (TfL) network. Once you have enrolled, you'll be able to apply via My Kingston, our student intranet (remember you can't apply for the discount until after you have enrolled so please don't contact us yet!).
Some part-time students may also be eligible – visit the TfL site for more information.
Even better, we also run a free bus service between Kingston University campuses. Plus check out our information about sustainable travel.
"I was unable to get a place in halls but the accommodation staff at Kingston were very helpful and put me in touch with other first years who hadn't got a place in halls either. They also gave me a list of suitable properties in the area."
Emily, Human Biology
student
"I used the daily vacancy list to find my first flatshare when I came to Kingston. It's very easy to use and I was able to find a place within a couple of weeks."
Horace, Forensic Science
student
"I shared a flat right from the beginning of my time at Kingston – I liked the independence it gave me."
Marketa, Sociology and Business
student
Top tips for housesharing
- Sharing household jobs is a big part of living with others. You might want to decide whether to have a cleaning rota before you move in, for example, and discuss who will be responsible for what.
- Have regular house meetings to make sure everything is going smoothly and talk about problems before they become serious.
- Remember that you'll have to pay bills for gas, electricity, water and (if you have one) the shared phone/internet line. When you move in, check the meters and note down the readings.
- It's a good idea to make sure you're all named on the utility bills to avoid being individually liable for payment. Think about setting up a joint account with direct debits for your utility bills.
- If you have a television, remember that you will need a TV licence.
- You can make savings by shopping and cooking together. And don't forget to contribute towards household products – nobody wants to run out of toilet roll!