HMO vs. PBSA: Which student accommodation is right for you?
You’ve found your perfect university – now you now need to find somewhere to stay. With so many options, it can be hard to know what’s right for you. Understanding the difference between purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) can help you make the right choice, and save you money, time and stress before the academic year.
Learn the differences between PBSA and an HMO.
Understand the pros and cons of PBSAs and HMOs
Find out what different types of student accommodation can offer.
What is PBSA?
PBSA stands for “purpose-built student accommodation”, which is housing created with university students in mind. That means everything from location to layout and amenities is designed to benefit student living and the student experience.
It’s ideal for undergrad, international, and postgraduate students who are looking for a social and secure living environment without the hassle of managing things like their own bills.
PBSA accommodation comes with a range of benefits, including:
Great proximity to campus. Most PBSA accommodation is almost always within close proximity to campus locations.
24/7 support. As fun as it can be, University can be difficult – especially living away from family. Unite Students offers a 24/7 wellbeing helpline for support when necessary.
Secure living conditions. Security teams and gated access mean your PBSA residence is safe and secure, so you can spend more time concentrating on your uni experience.
Study spaces. Want to get out of your room? Many PBSA residences offer dedicated study spaces – whether that’s for a group project or a change of scenery.
Great social scene. PBSA accommodation gives you more opportunities to meet people in similar circumstances to you.
All-inclusive utility bills. With PBSA accommodation like Unite Students, your bills are included in your rent. Say ‘no thanks’ to that admin life so you can focus on what matters.
Amazing amenities. From cinema rooms to common areas, gyms and more, PBSA accommodation is more than just a room. Why not check out some of the amazing amenities Unite Students has to offer?
What are HMOs?
HMO is short for “house of multiple occupancy” – a private rental cohabited by several people. This could be you and a group of mates, or a bunch of young professionals. They’re not a common choice for first-year students, but you may choose HMO student accommodation as you get to know people in your second or third year. Some post-grads may choose an HMO instead of a PBSA depending on the experience they’re after.
Some things HMOs offer include:
Independent living. HMOs tend to have fewer rules or restrictions than PBSAs – although that depends on who you live with and rent from.
More responsibility. As a tenant, you may need to handle estate agents, juggling bills, and coordinating for things like repairs – things you won’t have to do in a PBSA. Additionally, communal spaces will be a joint responsibility – although some landlords may assist with things like garden maintenance.
Cost savings. Renting a room can sometimes be cheaper than an individual studio or PBSA – however, you need to keep track of your bills to ensure this is the case.
Did you know you can book with friends with Unite Students? Find out how and book today.
What’s the difference between HMO accommodation and PBSA?: Head-to-head comparison
PBSA and HMO living are different in a lot of aspects, where one offers a streamlined experience, the other offers a bit more freedom – for better or worse. You probably won’t be able to throw parties at all hours in a PBSA, for example.
To understand whether HMO or PBSA accommodation is best for you, it’s a good idea to compare what they offer:
Cost and bills
PBSA: PBSAs can be more expensive on average, especially for a studio or ensuite room, but they offer more. In a PBSA, bills are included, rent won’t go up, and they offer more amenities for the price, which could be a net positive.
HMOs: HMOs can be cheaper but rarely include bills. That also means prices aren’t necessarily fixed, and it’s on you to stay on top of things like water and energy usage. You’ll also need to find and assess deals. This can make it trickier to budget. Additionally, if someone leaves the property, depending on the type of rental agreement you have, you may end up paying more than you expected.
Amenities and services
PBSA: PBSAs come with amenities such as gyms, onsite security, and study spaces. They’re also fully furnished with basic furniture, such as a bed, sofa, dining table, wardrobe and desk for studying.
HMOs: HMOs can vary in what they offer; while you almost certainly won’t get things such as an on-site gym, you may get a garden. Quality can vary in HMOs, and some landlords may take issue with repairs if something is functional but not ideal. It’s a bit more “hit and miss” on what you’re getting for your money, so always view the property first.
Location
PBSA: PBSA accommodation is almost always built closer to campuses and city centres, as they’re designed for students. This can be ideal, especially if you want to be within walking distance to uni.
HMOs: HMO accommodation can vary by location; you may get one close to a university, or others may be further. The closer you are, the more you can expect to pay. Compared to a PBSA, an HMO isn’t necessarily designed for students first, and there are only so many locations close to uni.
Social experience
PBSA: PBSAs give you access to a community in a similar position to you, helping you meet new people. With community events, shared common rooms, and access to other communal amenities, it can be a great way to meet new people and establish friendships.
HMOs: If you’ve got an intimate group of friends, an HMO could be a great option. You’ll rely more on housemate dynamics, muck in together with chores, and have those all-important house movie nights. It can be a great experience for established friend groups, but it can come with more social strain.
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Pros & cons: Key takeaways
Want the TLDR? We’ve got you. Here are the key pros and cons to take away on your accommodation search:
PBSA
Pros
Great social scene
Bills included – easy budgeting
Rent won’t go up
Convenient living
On-site amenities
24/7 security
Community events and social nights
Fully furnished and managed
Flexible leasing
Made for study
Great locations
Onsite Wi-Fi.
Cons
Can be more expensive
Less “homey” feeling
Smaller living areas
Seasonal vacancy
Shared facilities and amenities
HMOs
Pros
Affordability
Good for life experience
Social environment with friends
Sense of independence
Often come with a garden
Cons
Possible tenant disputes
Higher chance of wear and tear
Less privacy, high risk of noise
Lower standards
Location can vary
Lack of amenities
More bill and house admin/maintenance
Frequently asked questions
Still got questions? Get answers to help you decide between PBSA and HMO accommodation.
Is Unite Students private accommodation?
Yes, Unite Students is private, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), with rooms in 22 cities. While our accommodation is private, we do sometimes partner with universities to provide secure, managed halls.
Can first-years stay in HMOs?
Yes, first-years can stay in HMOs, but many choose not to, as it can feel intimidating to live with people you don’t know in a city you’re not familiar with. However, if that doesn’t bother you, or you’re moving with friends, it can be a great choice.
Does student accommodation count as an HMO?
No, student accommodation does not count as an HMO. Rather, an HMO is a house with multiple occupants – be they professionals or students. Student HMOs do exist, but not as a default.
Is student accommodation covered by the Building Safety Act?
Yes, student accommodation is covered by the Building Safety Act, assuming it’s classified as a “higher-risk building”, which covers buildings of a certain height.
What are the different types of student accommodation?
PBSA and university halls are two types of student accommodation, although HMOs can be purpose-built for students sometimes.
