Renting in Cosham
Rental properties and the lettings market
The rental market in Cosham is active and diverse, driven by demand from young professionals, hospital workers at QA, students, families and people relocating to the area. Cosham offers some of the most affordable rents in the Portsmouth area, making it a practical choice for those who cannot yet afford to buy or who prefer the flexibility of renting.
Two-bedroom terraced houses in central Cosham are the most commonly let properties, and rents are generally lower than for comparable properties in Southsea, Old Portsmouth or the city centre. Three-bedroom semis are available at moderate rents and appeal to families who need more space. Flats and converted flats are also available, particularly in the streets around the High Street where some Victorian houses have been subdivided.
QA Hospital is one of the largest employers in the area, and hospital staff form a significant part of the rental market in Cosham. Nurses, junior doctors, healthcare assistants and other staff often rent in Cosham because of the proximity to the hospital and the relative affordability. Landlords in the area benefit from this steady demand.
Lettings agents with offices on or near the High Street manage a significant proportion of rental properties in the district. Online platforms including Rightmove, Zoopla, OpenRent and SpareRoom also list available properties. Tenants should check that any agent they deal with is a member of a recognised professional body and holds client money in a protected account.
Since June 2019, the Tenant Fees Act has prohibited most fees charged by landlords and agents to tenants in England. Deposits are capped at five weeks' rent for annual rents below a set threshold. Deposits must be protected in a government-approved deposit protection scheme.
Housing benefit and the housing element of Universal Credit can help with rent for those on low incomes. Local Housing Allowance rates, which set the maximum housing benefit payable, are based on the broad rental market area and the size of property needed.