If the Student Accommodation Gives You the Ick... Run
And if you're the red flag tenant? Don't be surprised when accommodation providers say, "No thanks."

The truth is, great student accommodation works both ways. Students want a safe, clean place to call home, and property owners want respectful tenants they can trust.

Here's how to spot the green flags, and how to be one.

-Transparent Listings

The photos should match reality, pricing should be clear, and there shouldn't be hidden costs. If an accommodation provider is honest from the start, that's a great sign.

-Safe and Secure

Look for features like access control, CCTV, secure parking, good lighting, and proper fencing. Feeling safe where you live should never be optional.

-Close to Campus

Living near your university or reliable public transport saves time, reduces travel costs, and makes student life a lot easier.

-Fast Wi-Fi

Let's be honest—you can't survive varsity without good internet. From online classes to assignment deadlines (and yes, Netflix too), reliable Wi-Fi is essential.

-Well-Maintained Property

Clean communal areas, working appliances, and quick repairs show that the owner actually cares about the property and the students living there.

-Good Communication

Questions and maintenance requests shouldn't be ignored. A responsive accommodation provider makes life much less stressful.

-Clear Lease Agreements

Know exactly what you're paying for before you sign. Your lease should clearly explain rent, deposits, utilities, and house rules.

Be the Green Flag Too

Great student accommodation works both ways. Landlords appreciate students who respect the property and the people around them.

-Pay Rent on Time

If there's ever a problem, communicate early. Honest conversations are always better than silence.

-Respect Your Space

Treat your room and shared areas like they're your own. Looking after the property benefits everyone.

-Respect Your Housemates

Clean up after yourself, keep shared spaces tidy, and don't leave someone else to deal with your mess.

-You're Part of a Community

University is meant to be fun—we get it. But if there's a party every night, constant noise, litter everywhere, or neighbours constantly complaining, that's not a green flag.

Remember, it's usually the property owner who gets the late-night phone calls from frustrated neighbours.

Enjoy student life, but respect the people living around you.

-Save Water and Electricity

Small habits make a big difference.

• Switch off lights when you leave.
• Don't leave taps running.
• Take reasonable showers.
• Report leaks quickly.
• Use electricity responsibly.

Using utilities wisely helps keep accommodation costs lower for everyone.

Find Student Accommodation You Can Trust

The best student accommodation isn't just about the building, it's about mutual respect.

At Student Accommodation SA, we help students find trusted accommodation providers across South Africa. Whether you're searching for accommodation near your university or listing your property for students, we're here to make the process easier.

Choose accommodation that's safe, transparent, and student-friendly, and be the kind of tenant every landlord hopes for.