Why Purpose-Built Student Housing Might Be the Smarter Move
Choosing where to live at uni isn’t just about how close you are to campus or how good the price looks. It’s about how safe you’ll feel, how supported you’ll be, and whether your home is actually set up for student life.
Private rentals might seem flexible or familiar, but they often come with hidden stress. Think unresponsive landlords, unclear safety standards, and no one around when something goes wrong.
Here’s why purpose-designed student homes like YourTRIBE student accommodation are built differently, and why it might just be the safer, smarter choice for you.
Support: Who’s Got Your Back?
In most private rentals, if something goes wrong, you’re relying on your landlord (or a letting agent) to sort it out. That might mean waiting days for repairs or having no one to call outside working hours.
In contrast, purpose-built student homes usually have a trained on-site team available 24/7. These aren’t just security guards—they’re people trained to help with everything from locked doors to wellbeing concerns.
At YourTRIBE, students regularly mention how knowing their team by name made them feel more secure and looked after.
In the recent Investor in Students survey, our properties scored the highest in the country staff friendliness.
Security: What’s in Place to Protect You?
Private homes vary. Some will have good locks and alarms. Others… not so much. And with multiple tenants or shared entrances, it can be harder to control who’s coming and going.
PBSA buildings are designed with student safety in mind. That often includes:
- Fob-only access to the building and individual flats
- CCTV in communal areas
- Regularly reviewed safety protocols
This setup isn’t just about reacting to issues; it’s about preventing them. At YourTRIBE, we go a step further with a team on-site round the clock.
“There’s always someone on site and that helps.” YourTRIBE Resident 2024
In the recent Investor in Students survey, our properties scored 12.5% above the national benchmark for how safe students felt on site and in surrounding areas.
Wellbeing: Is There Mental Health Support If You Need It?
Private landlords aren’t expected to offer wellbeing support, and most don’t.
Purpose-built providers like YourTRIBE are increasingly recognising how vital mental health is. That’s why teams are often trained in Mental Health First Aid, and work with national organisations like Student Minds or MHFA England.
That doesn’t replace professional counselling, but having someone who knows how to respond (and when to refer) can make a real difference.
Safety Standards: Who’s Checking the Checks?
With a private rental, safety standards can be inconsistent. Gas certificates, fire alarms, repairs, it’s all down to individual landlords. Some are brilliant. Others aren’t.
Purpose-built student accommodation is usually accredited by independent bodies like the ANUK National Code, which sets clear standards for:
- Fire safety and risk assessments
- Repairs and maintenance
- Complaint handling and resident rights
YourTRIBE is proudly accredited under the ANUK National Code, we follow these standards across all buildings. But even if you’re looking at other providers, we recommend checking for ANUK or equivalent accreditation.
Costs & Clarity: What’s the Real Deal?
Many private rentals require:
- A large security deposit
- A UK-based guarantor
- Upfront rent payments
- Admin or reference fees
PBSA providers are more likely to offer:
- Transparent, all-inclusive pricing
- No deposit or hidden charges
- Clear cancellation policies
At YourTRIBE, for example, we don’t take a deposit and we offer free cancellation if you don’t get your place or visa.
“I looked at other places — this is way better for what I pay.” YourTRIBE Resident 2024
Connection: Are You Part of a Community?
Private housing can be isolating, especially if you’re in a mixed or older household. Purpose-built accommodation often gives you access to:
- Shared social spaces
- Events and community programming
- A like-minded student community
That sense of belonging can really shape your university experience for the better.
At YourTRIBE, we know how important it is to feel connected and at home. That’s why we run a full calendar of events year-round, from rooftop BBQs, pizza nights and cocktail masterclasses to art workshops, bookable beauty treatments and wellness walks through the city. Whether you’re into games nights, creative sessions or just want to meet new people over food and drinks, there’s always something going on to help you feel part of the tribe.
“The socials helped at the start of term.” YourTRIBE Resident 2024
So, What’s Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some students love the independence of private renting. But if safety, support and community are high on your list, purpose-built student housing is worth serious consideration.
Whichever way you go, make sure to:
- Ask about safety measures
- Check for independent accreditations like ANUK National Code
- Read reviews from students who’ve lived there
- Get clear on cancellation policies and deposits
Considering PBSA in London?
If you’re looking at purpose-built options in the capital, YourTRIBE could be a great fit. But even if it’s not us, use this checklist to guide your search, and make sure wherever you land, it’s somewhere that feels like home.
Want help comparing options? Explore more at YourTRIBE.com or book a tour of our buildings.