Finding somewhere to live, and feeling comfortable there, is an important part of university life. Whether you are applying for halls, looking for a shared house or having problems in your current accommodation, we can help you understand your options.
Whether you’re living on-campus or off-campus there are lots of services available to support you.
Our Advice team provides free, independent and confidential advice to all St Mary’s students on academic and housing matters. Our advisers are happy to look at a housing contract before you sign it, to see if there is anything unusual or concerning, and to answer any questions you have.
We operate remotely and can provide advice and support by email, telephone or Teams/Zoom appointments.
Advice.smsu@stmarys.ac.uk
The University advises arranging next year’s accommodation well in advance, preferably in the spring. Our advisers cannot search for accommodation on your behalf.
In University halls: contact the Student Life Team on 020 8240 4048 or studentlife@stmarys.ac.uk, or the Accommodation Service. On campus, Security is available 24/7 on 020 8240 4335.
In private housing: for repairs, damp or mould, housemate disputes or problems with a landlord, contact our Advice team. Shelter and GOV.UK also have guidance on getting repairs done.
Your tenancy or housing contract is a legally binding document, and you are responsible for the rent you agreed to pay. If you are having trouble paying, get advice early, before arrears build up.
Our Advice team can talk you through your options in confidence, and our Financial Support page lists support available inside and outside the University.
What you can do depends on your agreement and the type of accommodation you live in. Tenancy rules for most private renters in England changed on 1 May 2026, and halls contracts work differently.
Speak to our Advice team before you give notice or commit to another property, especially if you share a tenancy with housemates.
If you need an accessible room or have disability-related requirements for your accommodation, tell the University’s Accommodation Service as early as you can.
The University’s Wellbeing Service can advise on disability and mental health support.
If you are homeless or at risk of losing your home, get help straight away. Contact the University’s Accommodation Service and the Student Life Team (020 8240 4048), and our Advice team. Your local council can help if you are homeless or about to lose your home.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
Links to other organisations are for information. SMSU and the University are not responsible for their content. Information on this page was checked on 12 October 2026. If anything is wrong or out of date, please tell us at smsu@stmarys.ac.uk.
