Nearly half of student landlords plan to market their properties later than usual following the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, according to research covering approximately 7,400 student properties.
The survey by Accommodation for Students found that 45% of landlords intend to delay their traditional marketing schedule, representing a significant departure from established practice in the sector. Historically, student properties have been marketed in October and November for the following academic year, almost 12 months in advance.
Ground 4A provisions drive change
The shift is attributed to Ground 4A, a new student possession ground that prevents landlords from signing tenancy agreements more than six months before the tenancy start date if they wish to rely on this provision for regaining possession. The research found that 73% of landlords intend to use Ground 4A, whilst 65% were aware that early tenancy agreements could affect their ability to use the provision.
The change follows wider reforms to the eviction process affecting the private rental sector. Some landlords are expected to continue autumn marketing whilst delaying contract signing until within the six-month window, though this approach presents operational challenges.
Operational implications
Holding deposit rules limit how long prospective tenants can reserve a property before signing a tenancy agreement, creating uncertainty about bridging the gap between securing interest and completing compliant tenancies.
Simon Thompson, director and founder of Accommodation for Students, said: “The student lettings market has operated in broadly the same way for many years, with landlords traditionally marketing properties almost a year before students move in. Our research suggests many landlords are now reviewing that approach as they adapt to the new legislation.”
The findings indicate that whilst October and November are likely to remain important months for student property searches, more accommodation could become available later in the academic year as landlords adjust their strategies. The changes add to ongoing shifts in the lettings market as operators adapt to regulatory changes.
The traditional advance marketing model has historically provided landlords with certainty that properties would be let before the academic year begins. The six-month restriction under Ground 4A requires a recalibration of these long-established practices across the student accommodation sector.