Why PBSAs beat HMOs for Students
As a student, you’ll have various options when it comes to choosing where to live during your university years. You may have heard the terms HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) and PBSA (Purpose-Built Student Accommodation) thrown around, but what do they really mean? And which one is better suited for your lifestyle and needs? In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between HMOs and PBSAs, with a focus on why PBSA might be the best fit for you.
What Are PBSAs?
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) are designed specifically for students. These residences are built to meet the needs of the student lifestyle, offering private rooms or studios in a well-maintained environment. PBSAs often provide a range of facilities and services designed to create a comfortable living experience, making them a popular choice among students.
Key Characteristics of PBSAs:
- Designed for Students:
- PBSAs are built with students in mind, incorporating features that cater to their lifestyle, such as individual study areas, communal spaces, and social hubs.
- PBSAs are built with students in mind, incorporating features that cater to their lifestyle, such as individual study areas, communal spaces, and social hubs.
- Variety of Accommodation Types:
- PBSA typically offers a range of living arrangements, from ensuite rooms (bedrooms with private bathrooms) to studio apartments, allowing students to choose the setup that best fits their preferences and budgets.
What Are HMOs?
HMOs, or Houses in Multiple Occupation, are residential properties rented out to three or more tenants who are not part of the same household. Typically, these tenants share communal facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms. HMOs are commonly associated with student housing, young professionals.
Key Characteristics of HMOs:
Shared Living Spaces: Tenants in an HMO generally occupy individual bedrooms but share common areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and living rooms.
Multiple Tenants: An HMO must have three or more tenants who are not from the same family living together. This characteristic differentiates HMOs from traditional single-family rentals.
Licensing: In many regions, including the UK, HMOs may require specific licenses from local authorities to ensure that the property meets safety and living standards.
Types of HMOs:
- Standard HMOs: These usually consist of converted family homes where rooms are rented out separately.
- Large HMOs: Properties with five or more tenants, often located in city centres, may have additional licensing requirements and safety measures.
PBSA
Bills (PBSA): One of the significant advantages of living in a PBSA is that most accommodations offer all-inclusive rent. This typically means that utilities like water, gas, electricity, and high-speed internet are bundled into the rental price, making budgeting easier for students. This can help avoid unexpected expenses and simplifies financial planning.
Modern and Diverse Amenities (PBSA) : PBSAs offer various amenities designed to enhance the student experience. Common features include:
- High-speed internet
- Communal study areas
- Functional kitchens
- Fitness centres or gyms
- Social activities and event spaces
- Laundry facilities on-site
Maintenance: PBSAs generally have dedicated on-site management teams who are responsible for maintenance and repairs. This means that issues can often be resolved quickly, enhancing residents’ comfort and quality of living. Students can usually report any maintenance needs directly to staff, ensuring a timely response to any problems. Maintenance is an important feature for students to think about when choosing their university home.
Security: PBSAs typically prioritise safety and security, often featuring secure entry systems, CCTV surveillance, and on-site staff or security personnel. This creates a safer living environment and offers peace of mind to both residents and their families. Additionally, the presence of management teams on-site contributes to a secure community feel.
HMO
Bills: In many HMOs, tenants are responsible for their utility bills, which can vary greatly depending on usage throughout the year. Renters may have to set up accounts with utility providers for gas, electricity, and internet, leading to potential fluctuations in monthly costs. This can make budgeting more challenging compared to PBSAs.
Amenities: HMOs typically provide the essentials, such as shared kitchens and bathrooms, but may lack the additional amenities that PBSAs offer. The quality and availability of amenities can vary significantly depending on the property and the landlord’s investment in upgrades.
Maintenance : In HMOs, maintenance responsibilities can vary widely depending on the landlord and the rental agreement. While some landlords may be prompt in addressing repair issues, others may not be as responsive. Tenants might have to communicate repairs through the landlord or a property manager, which can lead to delays, particularly if they have to coordinate with multiple tenants to address shared facility issues.
Security: Security in HMOs can vary widely from property to property. Many HMOs may have standard locks on doors and windows, but they generally do not offer the same level of security features as PBSAs. Tenants often must take personal responsibility for their security measures. This can result in many problems for students, adding stress upon their university experience.
So… Which Should You Choose?
While HMOs may seem like an attractive option for some due to potentially lower costs and a more independent lifestyle, Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) offers a comprehensive living experience that prioritises security, convenience, and community. By choosing PBSAs, students can enjoy a supportive environment tailored specifically for their needs, allowing them to focus on their studies and make the most of their university years. In the end, investing in a PBSA often leads to a more enjoyable and fulfilling student experience.
We hope that this blog has helped you come to an informed decision of which student property to pick, HMOs or PBSAs. From an outward perspective, PBSAs are more beneficial to students compared to HMO’s. As a graduate I would recommend to think past just bills for the time being and incorporate factors such as security and especially maintenance! If you do choose a HMO, be sure to check the procedures for filing a maintenance issue. Whatever may be your choice, choose wisely!
