There are lots of very good, helpful landlords in the UK who take pride in their properties. Considering the below will help make sure you figure out that you're making the right accommodation choice for you.
Remember: Do your research, pay attention to the property, and read the small print.
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What’s the accommodation like?
When you’re being shown around, whether in person or virtually, you’ll get an immediate feeling about how well a space will work for you. Take your time to check things properly and ask questions.
Ask if you can record with your phone — it’ll allow you to look more carefully later, give an idea of the floorplan, and could be helpful if some housemates or family members can't attend.
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Is it furnished?
There’s a good chance that when you’re viewing the property, the previous tenants won’t have moved out yet, so it might be full of lovely, tasteful furniture that’ll disappear with them. Sometimes, accommodation that’s advertised as 'furnished' might only have a bedframe and old kettle inside. Other times it could be like a home from home.
Make sure you know what’s included – or you may have to unexpectedly buy lots of furniture and appliances when you arrive.
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What bills are included?
Is electricity included in the rental price? What about water? Broadband? Gas? Bills may be included in university-owned accommodation, but in many places, you’ll be billed for these things separately – even limitless things like water (if it’s not metered).
Be clear on what your rent includes, and what bills you will need to cover yourself.
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Is it gas safe?
You need to make 100% sure your home is safe if it has gas, and your accommodation providers should be able to provide proof of this - Ask to see certificates stating that appliances have been professionally installed and maintained, and that the boiler has had its annual service within the past 12 months.
Check there are carbon monoxide detectors as well as smoke alarms — and that they are working.
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What’s the internet and phone signal like?
If you're viewing accommodation in person, you can easily test the mobile signal by trying to make a call in the building. If you can’t get a signal, that could be a problem.
If you're not able to view the accommodation in person, you could look up the broadband speed online by entering the postcode on a website. Don’t forget, that’s the maximum speed you can expect – it is usually slower, especially if you will be sharing a router with housemates.
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What do people say about the area?
Seek out people who may already live in the area, such as existing students who know what it’s like. Some good questions to ask are:
- Is it safe for students?
- Are there good public transport connections?
- What are the shops and entertainment like nearby?
- What’s it like at night?
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What is the deposit?
A deposit will be required to secure your accommodation if you want to book it. A deposit is a one-off payment made before you move in, separate to rent. Deposits exist to protect landlords and accommodation providers against any costs they may incur as a result of you living there, for example if you damage their furniture or carpets.
If there are no issues, your deposit will be returned to you when you move out, but it's an extra cost you need to account for upfront and it may be non-refundable if you change your mind on living there.
A typical deposit is usually the price of one month's rent, but it can be more – so make sure you know what deposit is required before you proceed.
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Do you understand everything in the contract?
Every contract is different, and you need to make sure you have read and understood every paragraph. If anything isn’t clear, ask for it to be explained. It could save you a lot of money and avoid any unexpected issues.
When it comes to signing contracts - ask as many questions as you like so you are 100% confident about the agreement you are entering.