What to expect on the private market
If rooms in halls of residence are booked out, it will be necessary to look for alternatives. Some students gain enriching experiences staying in private accommodation, e.g. staying with a family, sharing a flat rented from a private landlord with other students.
You should usually expect to pay between about €260 - €400 per month for a room with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. It is advisable to check whether the room is furnished or not as many German students rent unfurnished accommodation.
When signing a contract, it is important to check with the landlady / landlord whether there will be any extra costs in order to avoid misunderstandings and nasty surprises. For example a bill for water, heating, electricity, the Internet or phone connection could come separately...
In Germany most landladies / landlords expect their tenants to pay a deposit of the equivalent of up to three months rent. This deposit is then returnable to you when you move out, assuming that you have fulfilled the conditions of the rental contract, incurred no damages and have left the facilities clean.
It is a legal requirement that rental contracts should be terminated with three months notice unless an agreement is made to the contrary. All agreements should be made in writing and signed by both parties.
Please check the leaflet: Finding a Room in Hamburg for sources of private accommodation in Hamburg.