The most important thing to know about student housing in Durham is that support is available to you throughout your housing journey.

Much of this support is provided directly by Durham University, Durham Students’ Union, Colleges and Common Rooms. The College Membership & Accommodation Office is the home of off-campus housing work at the University and works closely with the Community Relations team, Durham Students’ Union and student representatives on housing-related matters.

There are many activities, resources and sources of advice available throughout the year to help you make informed decisions about renting and to support you in getting the most from your time in private rented accommodation.

Our Renting in the Private Sector student housing guide provides practical information and signposts to support you at every stage of your housing journey. The guide covers key considerations including affordability, location and housemates, as well as advice on searching for, securing and settling into accommodation. A useful ‘fast access’ links section is also included. You can download the guide here.

Housing Talks and College-Based Activity

College student officer teams typically arrange housing talks during the first term of the academic year. These sessions are designed to give you plenty of time to consider your housing options before deciding where and with whom to live. Contact your College Common Room, Welfare team or Livers Out Representative to find out when your housing talk will take place.

Colleges may also organise additional events and activities for students beginning to explore accommodation options. Make sure you stay connected to your College through email and social media channels so that you do not miss updates.

Student Community Wardens

Durham University’s Student Community Warden service provides advice and information about living out in the local community, including practical guidance on sustainable living. The team regularly shares information and resources through its social media channels:

• Instagram - DU Student Community Wardens - Instagram
• Facebook - DU Student Community Wardens - Facebook
• Email – community.liaison@durham.ac.uk
• Web - Student Community Wardens - Durham University

Learning About Your Housing Experience

Understanding students’ experiences of housing is important to us, and there are regular opportunities to take part in surveys, focus groups and research activities relating to accommodation and renting.

Each year, students living in College accommodation are invited to complete surveys about their experience. This work is currently managed in partnership with Global Student Living (GSL). The survey for livers-in for 2025/26 has now closed, and we would like to say a big thank you to the more than 1,000 students who took part this year.

During May and June 2026, we also sought to learn more about students’ experiences of renting in the private sector, particularly for those living beyond Durham city centre. This work was carried out in partnership with Cushman & Wakefield. Research staff were on site in Durham on Thursday 28 May, Monday 1 June and Tuesday 2 June, and in Newcastle on Thursday 4 June 2026.