63% of homeowners would consider offering room to student

Interest in hosting a third-level student is particularly high among homeowners under 35, at 82%, research shows

The findings are included in new research from Amárach, carried out for the Department of Higher Education. File picture

Almost two-thirds of homeowners would consider offering up a room in their house for a college student, research shows.

Interest in hosting a third-level student is particularly high among homeowners under 35, with 82% saying they would consider offering accommodation.

The findings are included in new research from Amárach, carried out for the Department of Higher Education.

Findings show that 63% of people who have a spare room and live within 5km of a college would consider offering up accommodation.

The biggest reason for opting against offering digs, chosen by 68% of respondents, is concern over having a stranger in their home.

It found that both sides have largely reported positive experiences, with homeowners being the happier of the two. 

The data showed 65% of homeowners were positive about providing accommodation, with 22% reporting no negative side.

This is not the same for students, however, with 36% reporting a positive experience and 52% saying they were neutral.

In particular, students raised concerns about their loss of personal space, rather than any direct complaint about their host.

“However, experience improves attitudes, with half of students coming away more positive about digs, and three-quarters saying they would recommend it — digs work better in practice than its reputation suggests,” the research report says.

The research finds that ground rules are agreed in 88% of digs accommodation agreements, which covers rent, expectations around tidiness and behaviour, and whether friends are allowed in the house.

“Among the minority who went without one, 68% think an agreement would have helped, a clear sign that a simple template would be welcomed,” the report states.

It found that homeowners mostly find students through family friends (45%) or university advertising (41%), while just over half opt to meet both the possible tenant and their parent ahead of a decision.

The research found there was a lack of knowledge surrounding the availability of the rent tax credit, with 27% of homeowners being unaware while 55% of students do not know they can claim it.

Mr Lawless said the research shows that renting out a room has a positive impact for both parties.

“Digs are often a budget-friendly option, giving students a comfortable home away from home while they also give homeowners a chance to make some extra money, which is important,” he said.

“But, as part of this research, we have heard many stories of how people have made lifelong and meaningful connections after opening up their home to students. I’d encourage anyone who has a spare room close to a college to consider it.”