Renters' Rights Act

Information for students with a Licence Agreement (not an Assured Shorthold Tenancy) 

 

 

There are major changes to legislation coming on 1 May 2026, that affect how you rent private student accommodation. It’s important that you understand these changes as they could impact your living and financial situation.  

 

If you have a Licence Agreement or living in a Homestay (when the owner also lives in the property), the changes in legislation will not apply to you.  

 

 

 

Checking if you have a Licence Agreement 

 

Some accommodation providers offer this type of agreement instead of an Assured Shorthold Tenancy.

 

You can check which type you have by looking at the language used on the contract. If you are referred to as a ‘tenant’ then you are likely to have an Assured Shorthold Tenancy. If you have this type of contract and live in a private hall, please see this page and if you are living in a house or flat please view this page. 

 

If you are referred to as a ‘licensee’ on the contract, then you are likely to have a Licence Agreement. 

 

 

 

What is a Licence Agreement? 

 

A Licence Agreement: 

  • Gives personal permission for you to occupy a property or room but with limited rights, although there is some protection against immediate eviction. 
  • Is used when the occupier does not have exclusive occupancy of their property or room. 
  • Can be a fixed term agreement, with a start and end date. 
  • May state that the accommodation provider can request rent upfront.  
  • This is most likely to be used when you are sharing a property with the owner (homestay).  

 

 

Sham Licence

 

It is possible that some accommodation providers may start to issue License Agreements in order to try and avoid the requirements of the Renters’ Rights Act. This is known as a ‘sham licence’.


If you have a Licence Agreement and you believe that you have exclusive occupancy of your property or room, then you should have the agreement checked by an appropriate advisor.

 

If you are offered a License Agreement, ask why it is not a Tenancy Agreement and then get advice before signing it (unless you are sharing the home of the landlord).

 

 

 

Getting advice 

 

If you currently have a Licence Agreement with your private accommodation provider or you have been offered a new Licence Agreement, you should seek advice, as this type of agreement can limit your rights as a tenant. 

 

You can get support from your University, Students’ Union and Liverpool Student Homes.