Ways of finding accommodation

Word of mouth
Tell everyone you know that you are looking for somewhere to live and ask them if they know anybody who needs a flat mate or lodger.

Notice Boards
Look in shop windows, such as newsagents, supermarket or at a youth centre or workplace notice board.

Newspapers and Magazines
Look up the ‘property to rent’ section. These are in local papers, specialist magazines and sometimes in national newspapers. Your local library should have reference copies so you don’t have to buy them yourselves.

Accommodation Agencies
These nearly always charge for their services. For a fee, they will give you a list of landlords in the area.

Housing Aid Centre, Advice Centre or Telephone Helpline
These services are usually free, independent and confidential. They can give you details and lists of landlords and landladies in the area that you want to live in, refer you to a hostel or housing association, and can sometimes take up your case with the council for housing you.

Be clear about what you want e.g. which area that you want to live, your budget and if you want to share. Be flexible, if what you want is not available.

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