Information on the Student Accommodation Code
The UUK Code of Practice for Student Accommodation has changed its name and website address. The new name for this code is Student Accommodation Code, and it's website address is
www.TheSAC.org.uk. Please ensure you update your websites accordingly. This is one of three Government approved codes - the other two being the
ANUK National Codes for Educational and Non-Educational Properties (
www.nationalcode.org) - which together cover the vast majority of student accommodation, provided both by universities and colleges and private suppliers.
For some background, the Codes are important as often a student's time in accommodation is their first time of living independently and away from home. So making sure accommodation is safe, good quality and caters for their needs is crucial.
Many first year students will be in university-managed housing and, to make sure this accommodation is of a good standard, the Student Accommodation Code has been developed.
The Code protects students’ rights to safe, good quality accommodation, wherever they are studying, and makes sure they get the best out of their time living in university or college residences. It outlines everything students can expect from their accommodation as well as their responsibilities as tenants.
Many university accommodation buildings are signed up to The Code, which was introduced in 2006. The Code has already raised standards of accommodation and aims to continue to enrich the residential experience for students across England and Wales.
The Code covers six main areas, designed to protect students’ rights to:
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A healthy, safe environment - this section covers students’ rights to information on essential fire safety precautions; accommodation security; and details on what furniture and facilities should be provided for them.
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Timely repairs and maintenance – this section explains what repair and maintenance is the responsibility of the university or college and what timescales they should work to when carrying out emergency or planned maintenance work.
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A clean, pleasant living environment - this section outlines the services and utilities students can expect in their accommodation, including standard utilities such as heating and lighting, but also services and facilities such as rubbish and recycling collection and bicycle and car parking.
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A formal, contractual relationship with the university or college landlord – this section details the information students can legally request from their landlords including rent payment schedules, cleaning schedules, and details on how to report a problem.
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Access to health and wellbeing services – this section outlines the requirements for universities to provide information on where students can find welfare support, medical help, financial advice and counselling services.
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A living environment free from anti-social behaviour – this section covers measures that universities and colleges should take to help ensure that their residences are happy and respectful environments.
For more information on The Code or to see a full list of the university and college accommodation that it covers please visit
www.TheSAC.org.uk. If your accommodation is not covered here, then check out the membership list for the two ANUK Codes at http://www.nationalcode.org/