House hunting
The best time to start looking for your house for next year is from February onwards
The list of University Approved accommodation is released on the first Monday in February. Some people organise their accommodation very early in the academic year, but they miss out on some of the better houses that become available later.
Landlords need time to find out whether their existing tenants are going to move out or stay on for another year. And some may be busy refurbishing their properties.
Decide who you want to live with
Before you start to look for a house decide who you'd like to share with, or whether you'd prefer to live on your own.
If you need temporary accommodation while you're house hunting, there are plenty of hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts in Derby and Buxton.
Have a look at the properties that are available
There are lots of properties registered with us that have our seal of approval.
- Search for a University approved property in Derby Search for a University approved property in Buxton
- Guide to student accommodation (PDF, 2.87MB) from Communities and Local Government
- Choosing a home to rent guide (PDF, 653kb) from High Peak Borough Council
- Student's guide to private rented accommodation
You'll find details about each property, including the deposit, retainer and rent you'll need to pay, the number of rooms that are available, and the contact details for the landlord or agency.
You can also find details of other properties in the local newspaper, and through property agencies. But remember, these properties won't have been approved by us.
Are you happy to live in a house with people you don't know yet?
Then look for properties where each room is let out individually, or where there's only one room left to fill.
Looking for a house for two?
Sometimes the landlord will be happy to let a 'shared house for three' to two people after negotiating the rent.
Or you could rent two individual units or bedsits in a larger property.
Looking for a house for your family?
Some landlords will let a house to a family, rather than a group of students - so don't be afraid to ask.
Contact the landlord to arrange a viewing
Many landlords will be able to show you round their property at short notice.
Remember to ask for the house number - we don't display these on our property list for security reasons.
Sign your tenancy agreement
When you've decided where you want to live, make sure you sign a tenancy agreement, between you (the tenant) and the owner of the property (the landlord) or managing agent.
