How to Create a Safe Environment for Students

Providing a safe environment for student tenants is a top priority for property managers. Beyond meeting legal requirements, ensuring safety in student accommodation fosters a sense of security, well-being, and trust, all of which contribute to a positive renting experience. Whether it's basic property maintenance or implementing security measures and emergency protocols, there are several ways to create a safe and compliant space for students.

Here’s how to improve safety and make your properties as secure as possible.

Conduct regular safety inspections

Regular inspections help identify and address potential safety hazards before they become bigger issues. Ensuring compliance with property safety regulations is not only a legal responsibility but also a way to protect tenants and prevent costly repairs.

During routine inspections, focus on:

• Fire safety: Test smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure all fire doors and emergency exits are functioning.
• Electrical and gas safety: Carry out yearly Gas safety checks and ensure Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) are up to date.
• Structural integrity: Look for any cracks, leaks, damp, or signs of damage that could pose a risk.
• Plumbing and heating: Check for water leaks, ensure adequate heating, and confirm that tenants have access to hot water.

By staying on top of inspections and scheduled maintenance, you reduce risks and provide a safer home for your tenants.

Implement secure access systems

Keeping students safe starts with strong security measures. While it’s important to allow tenants to feel independent, ensuring that they can enter and leave the property securely is crucial.

Ways to improve security:

• Install secure locks on all external doors and windows. Multi-point locking systems or smart locks add extra protection.
• Consider keyless entry systems for HMOs or PBSA, so only tenants can access the property.
• Install CCTV cameras at entry points for added security, particularly in communal areas.
• Fit outdoor lighting around entryways, pathways, and parking areas to improve visibility at night.

Tenants should also be encouraged to lock doors and windows whenever they leave the property. Providing clear guidance on security expectations as part of the check-in process can help prevent issues.

Maintain common areas and outdoor spaces

Shared spaces such as hallways, staircases, kitchens, and lounges should be regularly maintained to ensure they are safe and hazard-free.

• Lighting: Ensure all communal areas are well-lit, including staircases and outdoor pathways.
• Fire exits: Keep all emergency exits clear and easy to access.
• Furniture and fittings: Check for broken or damaged furniture that could cause injury.
• Outdoor maintenance: Keep pathways clear, and ensure fencing or gates are in good condition.

Provide clear emergency procedures

Students living away from home may not be familiar with emergency procedures, so it’s important to ensure they know what to do in case of fire, gas leaks, or other emergencies.

• Display emergency contact details prominently in the property, including fire safety instructions and local emergency numbers.
• Provide an emergency contact for maintenance so tenants know who to reach if urgent repairs are needed.
• Ensure fire safety compliance by clearly marking fire exits and placing fire extinguishers in accessible locations.
• Consider emergency drills (particularly in PBSA) so tenants are prepared in the event of an emergency.

Foster open communication with tenants

Good communication with student tenants ensures that issues can be raised and resolved quickly. Students should feel comfortable reporting maintenance problems, security concerns, or any health and safety risks.

Ways to improve communication:

• Use digital maintenance request systems to allow tenants to report issues easily and track their progress.
• Respond quickly to any concerns raised and provide clear updates on repairs or safety measures.
• Offer safety guidance when tenants move in, including how to lock doors, use appliances safely, and report issues.

Providing multiple ways for tenants to reach you - whether through an online portal, email, or emergency phone number - ensures problems are addressed efficiently.

Stay updated with safety regulations and compliance

Student accommodation safety isn’t just about installing the right equipment - it also means staying compliant with legal requirements.

Key areas of compliance include:

• Gas safety: A gas safety certificate (CP12) must be obtained annually for all rental properties with gas appliances.
• Electrical safety: An EICR must be conducted every five years.
• Fire safety: Smoke alarms must be installed on every floor, and carbon monoxide detectors must be fitted in any room with a solid fuel-burning appliance.
• HMO licensing: If you manage an HMO, check your local council’s licensing requirements.

Staying ahead of compliance not only keeps tenants safe but also protects you from fines and legal issues.

Prioritise student safety with Concurrent

Ensuring a safe environment for students requires proactive management, strong security measures, and clear communication. With Concurrent, you can track safety inspections, manage maintenance requests, and resolve issues efficiently - all from one platform.

Want to streamline your property management process? Book a demo today to see how Concurrent can help.