Requesting a rent reduction

Who can request a rent reduction 

You can request a rent reduction if: 

• you are disabled, as defined in the Equality Act 2010
• need a studio or adapted room because of your disability.

This could include needing a room that:

• is step-free and has wider doors, extra floor space and rails 
• has an accessible wet room and lowered surfaces, such as a sink. 

You cannot request a rent reduction if:

• you do not need a studio room or adapted room 
• you have couples or family accommodation 
• you have emergency accommodation 

We don’t offer rent reductions on rooms that cost less than £231.28 per week. 

A disability is a physical, mental, neurological or sensory impairment. It has lasted or is likely to last 12 months or longer and has a sizable impact on your day-to-day life. 

Rent costs for 2026/27

If you get a rent reduction, you will pay £231.28 every week for your room.  

Your total rent is based on the tenancy length: 

• 38 weeks: £8,788.64 
• 42 weeks: £9,713.76 
• 50 weeks: £11,564 
• 51 weeks: £11,795.28.  

If your accommodation is catered, there is an extra cost for food. 

How to request a rent reduction 

You can request a rent reduction:

• when you apply for accommodation
• by emailing student-accommodation@bristol.ac.uk. 

Your request must include: 

• a summary of how your disability affects your accommodation needs 
• relevant supporting documents that confirm a diagnosis or working diagnosis for your condition. 

You cannot request a rent reduction after your tenancy ends. 

Supporting documents guidance

Your supporting documents could include:

• letter or statement from a doctor or health professional 
• report from a psychologist, educational psychologist, or specialist teacher 
• Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or Special Educational Needs (SEN) plan 
• confirmation of referral for a diagnostic assessment or test for a condition such as
  • ADHD
  • Autism
• Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA) study needs assessment report. 

Your supporting documents should be on headed paper and include:

• the date 
• your printed name  
• the position and signature of the health professional 
• a diagnosis (or working diagnosis where a firm diagnosis is not available). 

 Your documents should state that your condition:

• has lasted or is likely to last 12 months or more 
• has a substantial impact on your day-to-day life, in the opinion of the health professional. 

We may ask you for more supporting documents if needed. 

Find out how to get a diagnosis. 

Documents must have an English language version. Translations should be done by the health professional or a certified translator.

After you submit your request 

If you request a rent reduction by 30 June and are successful, the reduction will be in your accommodation offer 

If you get a rent reduction after 30 June, we can backdate your rent amount to the start of the tenancy. We will update your invoice within 15 days.