Congratulations on securing your place at University! Now you have confirmed your study destination, choosing accommodation is your next biggest choice. But why should you choose student accommodation (halls) covered by the National Codes?

Living in a student accommodation development that is covered by the National Codes offers several significant advantages, ensuring a safe, secure, and comfortable living experience.

Here’s why you should consider it:

1. High Standards of Management and Quality

• Code Compliance: Accommodation under the National Codes must meet specific standards regarding maintenance, safety, and management practices. This ensures you live in a well-maintained and properly managed environment.
• External Inspections: Members are inspected regularly by the National Code to ensure ongoing compliance with these standards, giving you peace of mind

2. Safety and Security

• Robust Safety Measures: National Code properties are required to have effective safety measures in place, including fire safety systems, secure access points, and adequate lighting in communal areas.
• Clear Procedures: There are clear procedures for addressing safety concerns and any emergency that may arise, ensuring that any potential hazards are swiftly managed.

3. Fair Treatment and Clear Contracts

• Transparent Contracts: The National Codes require ensure that your tenancy agreement is fair and transparent, with no hidden fees or unfair terms. This includes clear information on rent, deposits, and the conditions for ending your tenancy.
• Fair Dispute Resolution: If any disputes arise, the National Codes provide a fair and independent process for resolution, ensuring that your concerns are heard and appropriately addressed.

4. Support and Accountability

• Responsive Management: Management of National Code properties is required to be responsive and supportive, ensuring services are designed around the needs of students.
• Accountability: If a provider fails to meet the standards, they can be held accountable through the National Codes' complaints procedure, offering you additional protection and recourse.

5. Enhanced Living Experience

• Well-being Focus: Members of the National Codes must have staff trained in identifying mental health issues so you can be linked with appropriate support in a timely way
• Equality of treatment: Students with disabilities who require adapted accommodation will find these adjustments can be made and that rents for these rooms are no higher than the average

6. Reputation and Trust

• Established Trust: Choosing accommodation covered by the National Codes means living in a place that is recognized for upholding high standards, which can provide reassurance to both you and your family.

In summary, living in a student accommodation development covered by the National Codes ensures a secure, well-managed, and supportive environment, helping you focus on your studies and enjoy your university experience to the fullest.

How do I check if a building is in the National Codes?

You can find a list of members here, and the developments covered by the National Codes here. The National Codes cover the majority of privately operated purpose built student accommodation in the UK.

There is a separate scheme for university operated student halls run by Universities UK / GuildHE which covers the large majority of universities and you can find more information here: www.thesac.org.uk