Renting a property through the Accommodation Service is straightforward. Once you are registered with our service you will be able to access and view all the currently available properties from the Accommodation Services' affiliated landlords.
Once you have found a property that you like you can contact the landlord via the details outlined on the property listing, or if you prefer to you can use the enquiry form accessible at the foot of the property advert. This will send an email to the landlord with details of your enquiry.
Important: The University Accommodation Service does not deal with private property tenancies or licences beyond enabling the advertisement of a property. You, as the prospecting tenant, must arrange viewings and tenancy details directly with the landlord. Nor is the UniversityAccommodation Service able to intercede where there are disputes between tenants and landlords after a property has been accepted and an agreement /contract signed. In such scenarios we can only suggest where you might seek support or advice, but tenancy contracts are direct transactions between the tenant and their landlord and the University is not liable where a dispute arises. We do, however, ask that we be informed of any such dispute.
Inside knowledge
The property market in Cambridge moves quickly. There is little point in looking more than a few months in advance, as most private accommodation will be available either immediately or within a few weeks.
It's difficult to find self-contained accommodation for less than 6 months.
We occasionally list College rooms,subject to availabilitybut opportunities are limited. These appear in the property adverts alongside privately offered rooms. Room types and rental periods vary.
It is best to avoid taking private accommodation without seeing it first – if you know someone in Cambridge ask if they can view on your behalf,or visit prior to your permanent move, to search for a home, or book into temporary accommodation for a few days when you arrive so you have time to view properties for yourself. This is particularly important if you’re looking for a room in a shared house; at most times of year, you’ll be able to find a room within a few days once you’ve arrived, so there’s no need for anxiety.
Most prices quoted by private landlords on our website do not include household bills – please read advertisements carefully to check whether bills are included not. To get a rough idea of how much living costs might be, contact the landlords directly. However, rooms in landlords’ own homes are an exception and normally do include household expenses; your rent is likely to be all-inclusive.
When you are in Cambridge looking at properties contact Landlords by telephone where possible – emails may not be checked, or may go to spam folders.
You should expect to pay a deposit (ask about deposit protection) and the first month's rent before you can move in.
Cambridge is a small city – you can live on the outskirts and still only be a short cycle ride from the University.
Please do contact us for any further advice – we are here to assist in finding accommodation and living in Cambridge.
Please let us know once you have secured accommodation so that we can update our records.
