The information set out in this Guide is general guidance for students. It should not be seen as definitive or legal advice
Top 10 House-Hunting Tips
Looking for the perfect student house can be tricky, but fear not! We've got you covered with these top 10 tips to make your house hunting a breeze.
- Choose Housemates you Click With
Think about who you'll share your living space with. It's important to find folks whose lifestyle matches yours. Living together for a year means you'll want to get along well. Plus, cooking together can be fun and save everyone some cash
- Visit the House and Chat with Current Housemates
Before deciding on a place, make sure to visit it in person. Talk to the people currently living there, they can give you insights that a simple tour might miss. They might share important things like whether the house has dampness issues or if the landlord responds quickly to problems.
- Read the Rental Contract Thoroughly
Take your time going through the rental agreement. If you need help understanding it, don't hesitate to ask for support. If there's something you're not happy with, talk to the landlord or agent about it before signing. Remember, you have the right to negotiate things like rent and terms.
- Understand Joint Contracts
If you're sharing a contract with others, it means everyone is responsible for the rent. That means if someone leaves or doesn't pay on time, everyone might be held accountable. Make sure you're comfortable with this setup before signing anything. (See our Guide to Tenancy Agreements for more information)
- Consider All Expenses
Your budget should cover more than just rent. Think about things like how energy-efficient the property is and its location. You can ask for an estimate of heating costs and consider travel expenses to and from the property. (See our guide on accommodation costs for more information)
- Create a Budget
Make a budget that takes into account different rent levels. There are helpful tools like student budgeting spreadsheets that can assist you with this. Feel free to take advantage of resources like these.
- Protect Your Deposit
Make sure your deposit is protected by a government scheme. You can ask the landlord or agent for proof, or you can check online if you're unsure. It's important to safeguard your money. (See our Deposits guide for more info)
- Prioritise Safety
Check if the property has a Gas Safety Certificate and if it's equipped with smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Your safety is crucial!
- Don't Rush Into Signing
Take your time to make a decision. It's okay to take a step back and discuss things thoroughly with your potential housemates. Don't feel pressured to rush into anything.
- Create an Inventory
When you move in, make a list of all the items in the house and their condition. Take photos, and share this inventory with the landlord or agent. This way, you'll have a record and can avoid disagreements later on.
Remember, finding the right place to live is important for a positive university experience. These tips are here to help you along the way. Don't hesitate to ask for advice or support if you need it. Just email us at advice@thesu.org.uk or book an appointment using our booking system here.
Good luck with your house-hunting adventure!