What Is Included in Student Accommodation?
If you are moving into student accommodation for the first time, it’s important to understand exactly what is included in your rent.
Different types of student housing in the UK — including shared houses, flats and purpose-built student accommodation — can vary significantly in what is provided.
This guide explains what is typically included in student accommodation in Newcastle and across the UK so you know what to expect before signing a tenancy agreement.
What Is Usually Included in Student Accommodation?
Most student accommodation in the UK includes a basic set of essentials designed to make student living easier.
Typically included:
- Furnished bedrooms (bed, desk, chair, wardrobe)
- Kitchen appliances (oven, fridge/freezer, microwave)
- Bathroom facilities
- Heating and basic utilities (depending on contract)
- WiFi or internet connection (in many cases)
- Safety features (smoke alarms, locks, etc.)
However, what is included can vary depending on whether you rent a private student house, flat, or purpose-built accommodation.
Are Bills Included in Student Accommodation?
One of the most important things students need to check is whether bills are included in their rent.
In the UK, there are two main types of arrangements:
Bills included
Some student accommodation includes utilities such as:
- Gas and electricity
- Water
- Internet
- Sometimes contents insurance
This makes budgeting easier because costs are fixed.
Bills not included
In many traditional student houses, especially in areas like Jesmond and Heaton, rent does NOT include bills.
In this case, tenants usually:
- Split utility bills between housemates
- Set up accounts for gas, electricity and internet
- Pay monthly based on usage
What Is Included in Furnished Student Houses?
Most student houses in Newcastle are fully furnished to support student living.
A typical furnished student house includes:
- Bed and mattress
- Desk and chair
- Wardrobe or storage space
- Sofa and communal furniture
- Dining table and chairs
Furniture quality can vary depending on the property, which is why viewing before renting is important.
What Is Included in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)?
Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) is often more modern and includes additional features.
These properties may include:
- Fully furnished studios or en-suite rooms
- On-site gym or study spaces
- Security services or reception desk
- Utility bills included in rent
- Maintenance and cleaning services in some cases
PBSA is usually more expensive but offers more convenience and facilities.
What Is NOT Usually Included?
It’s just as important to understand what is not included in student accommodation.
Common exclusions:
- Personal items (bedding, kitchen utensils, etc.)
- TV licence (if required)
- Food and groceries
- Transport costs
- Laundry (unless on-site facilities are provided)
- Personal contents insurance (sometimes optional)
Students should budget for these additional costs when planning their accommodation.
Student Accommodation in Jesmond
If you are looking for student accommodation in Newcastle, Jesmond offers a wide range of well-furnished student houses close to Newcastle University.
Our student houses in Jesmond provide long-term accommodation designed for student living, with convenient access to campus and local amenities.
Browse available properties to find your next student home.
FAQs About What’s Included in Student Accommodation
Sometimes, but many student houses require tenants to pay bills separately.
Yes, most student accommodation in the UK is fully furnished.
Usually a bed, desk, chair and storage in bedrooms, plus basic living room furniture.
It depends on the property; some include WiFi in rent, others do not.
Personal items like bedding, kitchenware, clothing and electronics.