Many student landlords may not be surprised to hear it, but a study has found big deficiencies in the financial and renting understanding of student tenants.
The research from Housing Hand found that while 71% of students believe they are financially literate regarding renting, many lack essential knowledge.
The rental services provider's Understanding Renters in 2025 report, highlights that 48% of students are unaware of how their credit score affects their ability to secure a property.
And 20% don't understand the concept of a credit score.
Students need to understand the process
The firm’s sales and business development director, James Maguire, said: "We need to ensure that student renters understand their legal commitments and responsibilities in terms of contracts and notice periods.
“With the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill moving rapidly towards becoming law, there is an opportunity that we must not miss to better support students throughout the rental process.”
He added: “Providing them with timely, relevant information in a clear, easily digestible format should be a core part of the rental service that all those in the sector deliver, from landlords and letting agents through to purpose-built student accommodation operators.”
Students don't understand deposit protection
The survey of 932 students also found that 70% of them are unaware of deposit-less rental schemes, and 38% didn’t know what a guarantor is when asked to provide one.
Tenancy deposit protection schemes also pose a challenge, with 53% of students being unclear about how they function and 67% were unaware of how long it takes to recover their deposit.
Housing Hand says these gaps create unnecessary stress and delays for students at the start of their rental journey.
However, the difficulties persist beyond securing a student property.
Setting up a utilities contract
More than half (53%) of student renters do not know how to set up utilities contracts and 28% are unfamiliar with establishing a direct debit.
Plus, 53% are unaware that contents insurance is their responsibility.
Looking towards the end of tenancies, 33% lack clarity on the process, and 44% are unsure about the notice period required.
Legal uncertainties further complicate matters as a third (33%) of students are unaware whether their tenancy is joint or individual.
Worryingly, 35% do not understand the distinction between the two.
Impact of RRB for students
With the Renters' Rights Bill set to have a huge impact on student accommodation, 76% of students are uninformed about how it will affect them.
That, the firm warns, raises concerns about their preparedness for upcoming legislative changes.
The managing director at Housing Hand, Graham Hayward, said: "There are fundamental differences between student renters and other tenants.
"Our latest research provides exceptional insights into the nuances and surprising differences of the student rental market, showing clearly why a tailored approach is so important when renting homes to students."
The firm says it is addressing these challenges by offering tailored support, including step-by-step guidance through its guarantor service application process and an online help centre.
Student landlords can help
Simon Thompson, the managing director of Accommodation for Students, said: "The report highlights that student landlords have a role to play in bridging the financial literacy gap among student renters.
"With nearly half unaware of how credit scores impact renting, over two-thirds unclear on tenancy deposit protection, and many lacking basic knowledge about utilities and direct debits, means the renting process becomes confusing."
He added: "The impending Renters' Rights Bill further amplifies the need for clear, tailored support and that being a landlord isn't just about handing over the keys.
"Student landlords have a unique opportunity to enhance the rental experience by providing accessible guidance and fostering informed tenancies, ultimately reducing stress and disputes."
