During September, the private housing support service decamped to a stand on the first floor of the Saw Swee Hock Building. This marked a more visible focus on private housing advice for LSE students, and a new venture within the building space. As part of this improved service, the Residential Services Office held two “Find a Flatmate” events on the 17 and 23 September.

Both days were well attended, with about 100 new LSE students taking part. Community and welfare office Sebastian Bruhn and education officer Thomas Maksymiw represented he LSE Students’ Union. LSESU catering provided a resplendent array of croissants, pains-au-chocolat and beverages to help keep up everyone’s spirit.

Each attendee was asked to give a brief introduction: Where were they looking, What was their budget,  and which single thing did they find the most frustrating part of their search?

Top private housing queries were: How to get a UK based guarantor? Can I avoid agency fees? What are the best areas in London?

By the end of both days, new households were formed, new friendships forged and more successful tenancies created allowing all to settle into the raison d’être for their time in London: To study.

Following on from the success of “Find a Flatmate”, the private housing support service is planning a series of events over the Michaelmas Term, which will help prepare undergraduate students for the experience of looking for private housing once their stay in halls is over. Details will be available online at: Private housing advice

Trevor Murtagh,
Residential Services Officer
Private Accommodation Lead