The information set out in this Guide is general guidance for students. It should not be seen as definitive or legal advice
House-Hunting Checklist
Planning to find a new place? Take along this simple checklist when you go house-hunting. It'll help you keep track of what you like and don't like about each place, making your decision easier.
Outside the Property
- Is the area well-lit at night?
- How's the nearby transportation?
- Describe the local environment: Quiet or noisy?
- Check the external condition of the property.
- Does the roof look ok?
- Check window frames aren’t rotten.
- Are doors and windows secure?
- Ensure drains and gutters are clear.
Inside the Property
- Check for signs of damp – peeling wallpaper, flaking paint, dark patches.
- Check for signs of condensation, e.g. mould on the walls.
- Any signs of unwanted critters like mouse droppings?
Utilities
- Ask about utility bills and heating from current tenants.
- Are bills included in the rent? Any cap on charges?
- Does the property use gas, electricity, or both?
- Check electric or gas fires - check the gas fire heats up properly and isn't heat stained (if it is it may be dangerous).
- Confirm the boiler is in good working order.
- When was the last service and is there a valid Gas Safety Certificate?
- Count the plug sockets in each room.
- Ask about internet access and if it's included or a separate payment.
Plumbing
- Check with current tenants about utility bills and heating.
- Confirm if bills are included and if there's a cap.
- Is there hot water?
- Do all the taps work properly?
- Does the toilet flush properly?
Security
- Does the property have a working burglar alarm, it’s in both the landlord's and yours interest to have one.
- Does the property have a smoke detector?
- Assess how easily the house can be secured. Insurance may insist on solid external doors with five-bar mortice locks.
- Locks - If you rent your own room, with a separate tenancy agreement which includes shared use of common parts with other tenants, then your room should have a lock. Otherwise this may not be something the landlord is willing or able to do.
- Verify if there is double glazing.
- Check for locks on downstairs windows.
Furniture
- Ask if any furniture belongs to current tenants.
- Ensure soft furnishings have intact fire safety labels.
- Confirm the overall furniture condition.
- Assess the presence of bed, desk, and storage in bedrooms.
- Check for blinds or curtains.
- Evaluate the carpet condition.
Kitchen
- Is the kitchen suitable for the number of tenants?
- Is there enough fridge/freezer space?
- Check the cleanliness and hygiene.
- Test the functionality of appliances.
Feel free to contact us via email with any questions at advice@thesu.org.uk or to book an SU Advice appointment, please use our booking system here.
Happy House Hunting!