Many students get caught in costly traps while renting. Beware of unpleasant surprises before you sign a lease with our suggestions.
Based on the results of our National Student Accommodation Survey, nearly half of students believe that their university home is not good value for the money.
Be sure to stay clear of the home-buying mania and take your time looking at properties. This is your chance to make an informed choice and avoid living in a location you don’t like.
There is certainly plenty to consider from deposits to damp and bus stop locations, it is impossible to conduct too much research. However, our suggestions below will simplify your life.
Where can I find student-owned properties?
Local student rental agencies are a good starting point in the search for housing for students at uni. Some students prefer dealing directly with landlords.
It’s a further layer of security when you choose to use an agency as they’ll serve as a middleman between you and your landlord. In theory, this means that all the details in the tenancy agreement is in accordance with the law. However, keep in mind that the cost could be higher.
If you’re considering taking the landlord route make sure you check with the university accommodation department first. They might provide a directory of approved landlords in the region.
Things to ask during a visit the house
Here are the top questions to ask during a visit to student accommodation Leicester:
Are there bills included?
Do you have an Gas Certificate?
What is what is the Energy Performance Certificate?
Are there discounts for renting in the summer?
How do I deposit money and what is the scheme for deposit?
What time does the deposit need been paid?
What can we do to get our deposit back by the expiration of our tenure?
Have you got an inventory of your belongings? What appliances and furniture are included?
Is there a parking space for cars or bike storage facility available?
Do you have a sample of tenancy agreement that we can look at?
Are there any additional or agency costs?
We’ll discuss all the essential things to be looking for when visiting the student flat or house below.
What should you look for when visiting a student house?
Here are ten key points to look out for when you are looking at a property:
Damp
Standards for rental housing are being improved However, our most recent housing survey found that 36% of pupils have lived in houses that were damp.
Don’t fall for the illusion that damp looks disgusting. It also has a foul smell and can cause damage to your furniture and clothes and cause serious health issues (especially when you have asthma, hayfever or other ailments that affect the way you breathe).
If you are looking at a home be sure to check the ceilings and walls – especially in the corners, around windows as well as behind closets. Check for flaking wallpaper or paint as well as black mould spots and an unpleasant smell. These are all indicators to look out for, too.
If you are moving in and discover that your landlord isn’t able to resolve issues with damp, you should do some research on your rights, as you might be legally able to sue the landlord.
Pest-related problems
Infestations are a major issue in the student homes. Pests that are commonly found in student homes include mice, fruit flies, slugs, rats, cockroaches, and pigeons. Sometimes even rats.
In reality, it’s usually because previous tenants left food items and bins that are overflowing around. However, even so it’s not fair to pay for the negligence of someone else.
Be sure to look over the kitchen cabinets as well as work surfaces, and even around bins. Check for droppings, traps and slug tracks.
On the upper floor, watch out for pigeons settling within the attic. We can assure you that they will be very, very irritating.
The property’s location
Everyone knows how crucial the location of your home is when deciding the place to live. The shorter it takes to get out of bed and go to your classes the better, right?
If a property near the university isn’t a great deal it’s crucial to determine the distance between properties and good transport connections.
However, proximity to the university (or an option to get to university) isn’t the only factor to think about when evaluating places. When you travel to the screening be sure to look out for local conveniences like supermarkets, newsagents, doctors and pubs.
Safety and security
Unfortunately, the crime levels in areas with a high percentage of students are usually high. The criminals who are looking for opportunities know that students who are drinking at night tend to leave the doors and windows open or forget their keys are in the door of their front (we’ve had it all).
Security is something students should consider when looking at a home. Check if the property has an alarm system for burglars and make sure the doors are secure. Check that the main entrance to the building is secured entry points, too.
If you’re concerned about security, you should mention it with your landlord. They’re not interested in any burglaries also, and will likely be pleased to upgrade the security of your locks as well as access points.
If you aren’t familiar with the area enough, conduct some research to determine how secure it is. Homes that are located on roads with good lighting are usually the safest. The quieter areas might appeal to certain pupils, however they also be a hindrance in terms of crime. However, wherever your home is check out our tips for protecting your home from burglars.
Be sure to ensure whether the building is equipped with fire alarms, extinguishers, and fire blankets. If you’re an HMO (house that is in multiple occupation) it must be designated emergency exits.
If you’re living in an apartment with more than three students, your landlord must adhere to strict HMO rules. It’s a bit frustrating that despite being legally required the regulations are difficult to apply. They are there for your safety and security. You should research about what they are through the internet or by contacting the local authority.
White goods and electric appliances
Do not be afraid to verify whether the appliances are functional and working properly. Make sure you know what’s included in the tenancy agreement as well as inventory as well. For instance the washing machine will be included, however the microwave could belong to the tenants currently in residence.
If you notice anything that is concerning be sure to report it to the landlord or letting agent. If needed, add some additional words added to the tenancy agreement which guarantees that the landlord will take care of concerns prior to you moving in.
It’s also important to ensure there’s enough equipment to accommodate the entire group. If you’re moving in with a group of six and you have only one fridge-freezer it won’t be a good idea.
Be aware of any suspicious-looking plug sockets or cables that are exposed and loose. They are very dangerous and must be taken care of before you make your move.
The water supply
If there’s a large number of students who use the bathroom multiple times per day, low water pressure isn’t a good sign for a peaceful family. While watching make sure the faucets get an easy turn to ensure there’s more than a drip.
It is also possible to test the flush of your toilet to ensure that it’s functioning exactly as it is supposed to.
While you’re at it be on the lookout for areas of dampness or leaks. Damage from water is extremely costly and could be hazardous.
Fittings and furnishings
As previously mentioned, make sure you have an accurate understanding of what’s in your inventory, and also what’s excluded. A luxurious leather sofa could be a selling point, however, it could disappear when you move into.
It’s also important to note that estate agents have recommended that landlords who rent to students must give each tenant an appropriate desk and chair (if they market the property as a student residence).
If you can, be sure to check your mattress for damaged springs. They can be uncomfortable and dangerous over time.
Make sure that the home is well-insulated.
Everybody knows that energy costs are among the most expensive expenses for students (if you do not include them in the rent you pay). It is important to ensure that your home is properly insulated can make an impact of PS100s in energy bills through the year.
The main thing to consider is double-glazed windows, safe doors and a well-designed heating system, and the absence of drafty areas – these are easy to verify.
Be sure to feel the walls in the house Also, feel the walls inside the property. If they’re cold, it’s an indication that the insulation isn’t as good (and may eventually cause dampness within your walls). Conducting these tests will aid in reducing your energy costs.
The roof insulation can be a bit more difficult because it involves going to the loft. The best option is to ask the owner how well the insulation is.
It’s also not a bad idea looking at the roof from the outside to see if any tiles are missing. If they are missing, it could cause leaks throughout the year.
Refrain from freebies and tricks
A few landlords will offer ‘freebies like huge TVs or no bills for utilities throughout the entire year, to lure the tenant into. Be wary of offers. Although they appear to be amazing offers The landlord may use these extra perks as a reason to rent the property at a higher cost.
It’s not that it’s always the case however. It’s just a matter of being aware. A beautiful TV is all nice and well, however when it adds greater than PS400 to your monthly rent it’s better off purchasing a new one.
Speak to the tenants currently in the building.
There’s no better understanding of what a home is as a place to live than the current tenants. They’re more likely to provide an honest and objective report, since they have no gain (or gain) by telling you anything other story.
You can get a good understanding by asking a simple inquiry: “What are the best and worst aspects of this home? “.
If the landlord isn’t looking watching over you They could inform you of something the landlord didn’t notice or is trying to cover up. If they appear happy this is the most reliable testimony you could get.
As the tenants of this house of horrors discovered that they had a conversation with the former tenants following their move into the property, having a chat with them before moving in could help you avoid lots of stress later in the future.
Make sure to take photos and videos while watching to obtain additional opinions from family and friends to aid you in making choices later.
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