Date Published 15 August 2025
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has joined forces with key housing bodies to warn MPs that they face a critical, last-chance opportunity to protect the student housing market—and with it, the future of higher education in the UK. The NRLA, alongside partners including Accommodation for Students and The Young Group, is calling on MPs to support a House of Lords amendment to the Renters' Rights Bill when it returns to the House of Commons on September 8. This amendment is designed to preserve the annual student letting cycle, which is essential for ensuring a steady supply of accommodation aligned with the academic year.
What's at Stake?
Under the Government's current proposals, only landlords of houses with three or more tenants will retain the right to repossess properties for the next student cohort. Smaller student homes—such as one- and two-bedroom properties—are excluded, despite making up around one-third of all off-street student accommodation. Without the certainty that they can re-let these properties in time for the next academic year, many landlords may exit the student market altogether, further reducing supply and limiting choice for students nationwide.
The consequences could be severe: fewer housing options, rising rents, and even barriers to accessing higher education. Research by Knight Frank reveals that 65% of first-time applicants consider accommodation availability a key factor in deciding where to apply. If the student housing cycle is disrupted, students may be forced to choose universities based on housing availability rather than academic preference—a fundamental blow to educational opportunity.
The Growing Concern
Nearly half of all students already say they are worried about a shortage of suitable accommodation. The House of Lords has recognised the urgency, voting in favour of an amendment to include one- and two-bedroom student homes. The coalition is now urging MPs to back this vital change when the Bill returns to the Commons. Letters have been sent to the Housing Minister and the Higher Education Minister, pressing for decisive action.
A Call from the NRLA
Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the NRLA, warns:
'A-level results day should mark the start of an exciting new chapter for thousands of young people. But unless MPs act, future students could see their ambitions blocked—not by grades, but by a lack of somewhere to live. Without this amendment, the Renters' Rights Bill risks breaking the student housing cycle, restricting choice, and undermining social mobility by shutting out students from all backgrounds. MPs have a final chance in September to protect the homes that make higher education possible—they must take it.'
As Reading's leading student accommodation provider, Adams Estates is closely monitoring developments and will keep all our valued clients fully informed as the situation unfolds.
