Accessible Student Accommodation: What to Ask Before Booking

Finding the right home is a major milestone in your university journey. At Prestige Student Living, we believe everyone deserves a space where they feel comfortable, supported, and part of the community. We offer accessible student accommodation options across the country, all designed to help you focus on your studies and social life without unnecessary stress.

Feature	What to Look For	Why it Matters
Room Layout	Step-free access and wider doorways	Ensures ease of movement for wheelchair users.
Bathroom Design	Wet rooms with grab rails and emergency pull cords	Provides safety and independence for daily routines.
Kitchen Access	Lowered worktops and accessible appliances	Allows for comfortable meal preparation and socialising.
Building Entry	Automated doors and lift access to all floors	Removes physical barriers when entering your home.

What features should I look for in an accessible room?

When browsing options, it is helpful to look for specific modifications that suit your daily needs. Many purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) buildings offer rooms with more space than a standard studio or en-suite to accommodate mobility requirements.

You might want to check if the desk is height-adjustable or if there is enough space under the bed for storage of medical equipment. Accessible rooms are usually located near lifts or on the ground floor to make getting in and out as seamless as possible. Due to every individual’s requirements being completely unique, we recommend discussing your specific needs with our team early in the booking process.

How do I ensure the building is fully accessible?

Accessibility does not stop at your bedroom door. It is important to consider how you will benefit from the range of amenities in your building and how you will bond with your fellow residents. A truly accessible property will often feature step-free access to all social spaces, such as the cinema room, gym, or study lounges.

Ask whether the reception desk has a lowered section for easier communication and if there are accessible toilets in the communal areas. At Prestige Student Living, we aim to create inclusive environments where you can join in every social event. Therefore, checking the path from the entrance to your room and all of the facilities on offer is a logical step to ensure a smooth daily routine.

What should I ask the provider before I book?

Getting clear answers early on helps you make an informed decision with confidence.

You may want to ask the following:

• Can I view the room? Requesting a physical or virtual tour of the exact room is a great way to verify the layout.
• Are there emergency systems? Ensure there are visual or audible fire alarms and emergency pull cords in place.
• Is there parking? Some properties offer blue badge parking spaces, although these are often limited.
• Can I bring an assistance animal? Most providers have specific policies for registered assistance dogs.

Advice for a Smoother Move

• Book early: Accessible rooms are in high demand and limited in number, so starting your search as soon as you have your university offer is a smart move.
• Speak to the site team: They often have detailed knowledge of the local area, including the best accessible routes to your campus.
• Check the local area: Use digital maps to see if the pavements leading to your university are level and well-maintained.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are accessible rooms more expensive? 

Generally, accessible rooms are priced similarly to standard rooms of the same type within the building. On occasion, rooms can be more expensive due to the supply versus demand in some properties.

Can I live with friends in an accessible flat? 

This is possible in properties that offer dual occupancy. If you choose an accessible room within a shared flat, you can still enjoy the social experience of living with your chosen flatmates while having the specific facilities you need.

Discover Your Perfect Student Home

Now you know how to make sure your provider offers accessible student accommodation, it’s time to make your move. Discover our fantastic range of properties across the UK and the Republic of Ireland today, and take your university experience to the next level.