Accommodation

Dossing

Most people end up dossing (sleeping on a friends sofa until you find a place of your own) when they arrive in England. If you are dossing, it is important to respect the house that you are staying in, and help out where possible.

Hostels

If you have run out of friends, try a friendly hostel

Rooms/Flat shares

A room in a flat share is often the cheapest, and more interesting way to living in England. Here are a few sites that advertise rooms to let. Loot advertises a lot of other items, and if you buy the hard copy - make sure you get the accommodation edition. It is often better to try online, as the adverts are posted here first. Rooms let in flat shares are often arranged informally. While this does give you more freedom, beware of unscrupulous landlords and tenants who will try and take advantage of these. If you have been a victim, check out the legal advice below.

Estate agents

If you would like a bit more security, and a formal lease agreement it is worth using an estate agent. You may pay more, but you should have a better service, especially if things go wrong. Estate agents are also a good resource if you choose to buy. Be sure to shop around for a good lawyer, mortgage etc and don't necessarily use the providers your estate agent recommends.

Legal advice

It is important to know your rights. The government has recently introduced legislature protecting the rights people renting accommodation.