Finding a suitable student accommodation may appear daunting.
If this is your first home, it’s likely that it will be the first time you’ve been away from home, perhaps in a place which you’re not familiar with. It may include living with people who have never met before. You might also be new to making payments, dealing with tenancy agreements or maintaining a property.
All of this could make making the decision to choose the best home quite overwhelming!
Even if this isn’t your first home as a student, it could be the first time that you are renting your own home instead of living in halls. For those who are seasoned renters, you can still feel there are a lot of things to think about.
It doesn’t have become difficult. Familiarising yourself with what to consider when the variety of options come your way is an excellent starting point.
What to Look For
What are the factors you should be looking for when you are choosing your next student housing? A checklist like this one on keep in mind will give you peace of mind that you’ve covered every aspect and assist you in deciding on the best property for you.
Location
It can pay to be flexible with your location, especially in a small city such as Norwich where nothing is too far away. This will allow you to prioritize other aspects on your housing wishlist.
Choose one or two factors that are important to you and your housemates. Do you want to live near where you go to school or near to the social activities? Will you be walking on the road, cycling, driving or taking public transportation to travel? Do you need to be close to a supermarket?
One important aspect that anyone should consider putting on their list is whether the location provides you with a sense of safety especially on your own at night.
The House
Are there central heating systems and is it throughout the property?
Does the Leicester student studio have double glazing? (It can help keep the heating bills down if it is)
Does the home appear to be maintained? Watch out for signs of damp or mould, check furniture and decor condition Also, make sure appliances and lights are working.
Are bathrooms clean? Do they have shower pressure, running hot water, and sufficient facilities to accommodate the amount of tenants.
Are your bedrooms adequate in size and have enough storage space? Make sure you would be happy to live in every bedroom. One person in your group may get the smallest room , and that could be you!
Is there an energy-performance certificate (epc)? The higher the band the higher, the less expensive it is to stay warm.
How many rooms in the communal area are there?
Do you have enough storage and cooking facilities?
There are enough amenities to accommodate the amount of people sharing?
Is there enough furniture and is it fire-resistant (check labels)?
The Tenancy Agreement
It could mark the very first time that you must sign what can be an enormous legal document of such a nature and appear like a jargon-filled document, intended to trap you. It is actually designed to safeguard everyone, including you.
Make sure you read your tenancy agreement. Once you have, review it. Many University and College housing support teams are available to read through your tenancy contract before you sign it.
A few tips for a tenancy contract:
Is it a one or joint Tenancy agreement?
What’s the length of the agreement for?
Do tenants require guarantors? If so, can you restrict their liability to your rent?
What happens if you want to move out before the expiration of the fixed lease?
Safety
Have you read the Gas Safety Certificate? (there should be one within the last 12 months)
Does the property have functioning carbon monoxide and fire detection equipment?
Has the landlord carried out a fire risk assessment?
Are gas appliances being checked in the last year?
What date was the last time wiring was checked?
Are there good locks on the doors and windows?
Are window panes and frames free from cracks?
Are there enough outside lights as well as alarms?
The Rent
How much is rent and are there bills included?
What is the amount of the damage deposit?
Is the agent or landlord part in the Tenancy Deposit Scheme which protects both you and the amount you have made payment for?
Are you aware of the charges that may be applied during the tenancy?
Have you got the landlord’s or letting agent’s contact details in case of an emergency?
Cleaning and repairs
Are there any repairs that need to be made prior to your move-in date? If yes, have got this in writing?
Will the property be decorated before you move in?
Is the property clean?
If your garden is in use is it your responsibility to manage the maintenance? (if then, ensure that you have the right tools)
Contact the Tenants currently living there.
If the current tenants aren’t satisfied, it’s important to know the experience of those who reside there, what the landlord’s personality is and the pros and cons of the house. Also, learn about what the typical cost has been.
Is the landlord or letting agent professional and responsive to repairs and maintenance?
Are the properties easy and cost effective to heat?
How much do they cover their bills?
Are they concerned about security issues?
Are there any ongoing issues regarding the property?
Conclusion
This is it this handy guide to assist you in choosing the best student accommodation.
