Looking to book your room? Click here to see our live availability.
We’ve updated how bookings work at urbanest to include the new Renters Rights Act. These changes are designed to make the process clearer and give you more time and flexibility when choosing your room.
Below is a simple step-by-step guide to how the updated booking journey works, followed by some quick FAQs.
Your Step-by-Step Booking Journey
1. Find your perfect room
Click here to browse our buildings, explore the different room types, and choose the one that suits you best.
2. Put the room on hold
If you need some time to think, you can place the room on hold for a short period. This gives you breathing space without worrying that someone else will take it.
3. Complete the Booking Request Form
When you’re ready to go ahead, you’ll fill out the Booking Request Form. This shows you want to reserve the room, but it doesn’t create a tenancy yet.
4. Pay the £300 holding payment
After submitting the form, you’ll make a £300 holding payment. This payment holds the room for you and will be credited towards your account once your booking is confirmed.
5. Receive your tenancy agreement
Before 1st May 2026, we’ll send you your tenancy agreement. You’ll need to read it carefully, sign it, and return it.
6. Submit your guarantor information
You’ll also need to provide details for your guarantor at this stage, and they will be asked to sign their part of the agreement too.
7. Your tenancy is confirmed
Once both you and your guarantor have signed and returned the required documents, your tenancy is officially confirmed - and your room is secured.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the £300 payment a deposit?
No. It’s a holding payment that reserves your room and is credited to your account once your booking is confirmed.
Does holding a room create a tenancy?
No - holding a room simply reserves it temporarily. A tenancy only begins once the tenancy agreement has been signed and returned.
When will I receive my tenancy agreement?
You’ll receive it no later than 1st May 2026.
What if I decide not to sign the tenancy agreement?
If you choose not to sign, no tenancy is created. The holding terms apply, and these will be clearly outlined during the booking process. You will receive a refund for your £300 holding payment.
When is my booking officially confirmed?
Your booking is confirmed once you’ve signed and returned your tenancy agreement, and your guarantor has completed their part.
What if I decide to cancel my tenancy after signing?
As a student staying in student accommodation, your tenancy is now covered by special terms set out in the new Renters Rights Bill and is defined as a common law tenancy.
urbanest is an approved member of the National Code for Students which means special terms apply to your tenancy guaranteeing a fixed length of stay, giving you peace of mind throughout your studies (just like staying in a University Halls of Residences).
The terms and conditions in your tenancy will detail the full cancellation policy. urbanest operate a 14-day cooling off period for you to cancel with no obligations. After this you can only cancel for specific reasons which can be found on the National Code of Students website . This will usually mean you need to find a suitable replacement tenant before we can cancel your tenancy.
I’ve booked with you before, why has this changed?
The Renters’ Rights Bill has been introduced by the UK Government to improve Tenant Rights. As a student staying in student accommodation special rules apply.
The overall experience should still feel simple and familiar, just with a few extra steps to protect you as a renter.
Need help?
📧 [email protected]
📞 +44 207 042 7890