Finding the perfect student home can be an exciting yet challenging experience. To help you make the right choice, Your Students' Union have put together the ultimate checklist! Whether you’re renting for the first time or looking for an upgrade, use this guide to ensure your new home meets your needs and keeps you comfortable throughout the academic year. 

Budget 

Make sure to consider your monthly budget. Ensure the rent fits within your budget without stretching your finances too thin. Check for hidden expenses like utility bills, internet, or maintenance fees. Also, it's helpful to understand the deposit requirements and any upfront agency fees before signing agreements!

Location 

Location is crucial when considering your next student home. Is the property within walking distance or a short commute to university? Be sure to check out the transport links too; look for nearby bus stops, train stations, or bike routes. Check for grocery stores, pharmacies, gyms, and cafes in the area, and research the neighborhood for crime rates and general safety. 

Condition of the Property 

You want to make sure your living environment is as pleasant as possible. Ahead of moving in, things lik cleanliness are important. Is the property clean and well-maintained? Ensure the furniture (beds, desks, chairs, etc.) is in good condition, check for functioning heaters, double-glazed windows, and proper insulation and look for any damages (e.g., broken locks, cracked walls, or leaking taps) and ask if they will be fixed before you move in. It is the landlord's responsibility to be actioning these for you.

Room Size and Layout 

You may spend a lot of time in your room, so ensure you are happy with it! The room needs to be big enough for your needs, with adequate storage for clothes and belongings. As well as your room, check the size and condition of shared spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room.

Safety Features 

It is important the property is safe ahead of moving in. Some housing providers will do these checks, but it's good to know yourself what to look out for. Look for smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, make sure all doors and windows have secure locks and check for adequate lighting in and around the property, especially entrances. 

Utilities and Internet 

Some rented houses come with bills included in the price, so it's worth asking what is covered in the price. Electricity, water, gas, and internet may be included in the rent. When you look around, test or inquire about the internet speed and reliability, especially if you rely on it for studying. Finally, ensure appliances like the fridge, oven, washing machine, and microwave are in good working order once you move in, and report any faulty appliances as soon as you can!

Tenancy Agreement 

Your SU Advice Service can support with tenency agreements, but three key things to remember:

• Read through the tenancy agreement carefully and understand the terms. 
• Make sure the lease period aligns with your academic year or planned stay. 
• Check for any restrictions, such as rules on pets, guests, or noise levels. 

All of these points can help to avoid issues down the line!

Housemates 

University living can be some people's first time away from home, and sharing with others can be testing. If sharing, meet potential housemates before you agree to anything to ensure compatibility in lifestyle and habits. Discuss expectations for things such as cleaning schedules and noise levels - everyone should be on the same page before moving in together. 

Landlord or Agency 

Ask current tenants about their experience with the landlord or letting agency; this will give you a true feel for what the landlord/agency are like. Good checks to run past landlords/agents are things like how quickly repairs and maintenance requests are handled, if the landlord or agency is registered with a recognised accreditation scheme and how other student renters have found them in the past. 

View the Property 

If you can, visit the property or request a virtual tour to see the space firsthand. A couple of photos may not tell the whole story of a property! Don’t hesitate to ask about anything unclear, such as council tax, parking, or previous issues with the property. 

Finding the right student home takes time and research, but it’s worth the effort to ensure a stress-free living experience. Use this checklist during your housing search to cover all the essentials. Remember, your Students' Union housing advisors are here to help - don’t hesitate to reach out for support by contacting the team! 

Good luck with your search, and here’s to a fantastic year in your new home!