My uni friends have signed for next year's house without me. Can I do anything?Beta*

Legally, no. You aren't tied to a house until you sign, and nor are they. What you can do is protect yourself: don't pay a holding deposit or sign anything until everyone in the group has agreed in writing. Don't rush. Student landlords push for early signing, but there's usually plenty of housing later in the year. Your students' union advice centre and the university accommodation office can help you find a room, often in a house looking to replace someone.

Sources: Shelter: renting as a student