Renting and short-term stays in Bristol

Information about different types of rental properties and what's included, estimate costs, accommodation and housing websites and more.

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Short-term stays and estimate costs

You may wish to book temporary accommodation for a few weeks for when you arrive, allowing you to find a longer-term rental once you are in Bristol and have had a chance to familiarise yourself with the city.

There are a number of options: hotels, serviced apartments, rooms in short-stay houses, short-term lets, mid-term lets (1 month - 6 months), Airbnb rentals. 

Short-term stays vary in cost. You may find a cheaper option by shopping around and all prices are dependant on the time of year and the facilities required. You can expect to pay approximately: 

  • hotel - rooms start £80 per night
  • serviced apartment - from £80 - £200 per night
  • room in short stay house - from £200 - £350 per week
  • short-term lets - from £55 per night
  • medium-term lets - from £45 per night
  • Airbnb - from £30 - £70 per night.

Viewing a property

Competition for good rental properties is high and the better properties will be taken quickly. To be sure you don’t miss good properties, you (or your representative) should attempt to be the first to view. It is almost impossible to rent a property without a viewing first. 

If you are looking at a house-share then make sure you meet all yosur potential housemates. First impressions can be very important when deciding.

Furnished and unfurnished property

If you are looking to rent a property, then it may be helpful to know the definition on unfurnished and furnished accommodation.

Unfurnished

Generally, you would expect to see soft furnishings (i.e. floor and window covers) and perhaps some white goods such as a fridge and cooker.

Part-furnished

This would generally include the items as above but perhaps with the addition of items such as a washing machine and perhaps some basic furniture but this will vary from property to property.

Furnished or fully-furnished

In addition to the items above as a general rule you would expect the addition of a sofa or soft chairs, washing machine, fridge and a bed and chest of drawers or wardrobe in each bedroom in order to make a comfortable living home.

Crockery, cutlery, towels, bedding may be included in the more expensive lettings but may be subject to negotiation and not always provided.

Inventories and what is included

When you are viewing properties it is sensible to discuss with the landlord or letting agent exactly what will be included. You can then ensure you have an accurate inventory which is normally drawn up at the start and expiry of any lettings agreement. There may be a charge for this to be compiled.

An inventory is normally easy to understand and will state clearly who carried it out and when. The purpose of this will be to provide an overview of the whole property and list its contents including details of working smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors. It may also contain an up to date record of meter readings. Amendments can be made to add details of anything that is missing, note any damage that has not been recorded and take photos, state if anything is not working and amend meter readings.

Only sign and date the inventory when you are happy it is accurate.

Check the inventory when you move out and try to be present when your landlord or letting agent is taking the inventory. Charges should not be made for normal wear and tear but if you have broken or damaged anything in the property whilst you were living there, your landlord can make tenancy deposit deductions.

Referencing

When you apply to rent a property either the letting agency, the landlord, or a third party referencing company, will put you through a referencing process. This will normally include writing to your employer and previous landlord. If your previous landlord is overseas it can be difficult to contact them so it can be helpful to bring a letter of recommendation with you, including tenancy dates.

A common reason for failing the referencing process is a poor income to rent ratio.

Accommodation and housing websites

Accommodation and housing websites to help you start your search for somewhere to live in Bristol: