If you’re starting your university journey or are moving out of halls of residence after your first year, there’s a fair chance you’re embarking on your first property search.
Our student house checklist outlines everything you should be looking out for when viewing student properties, or moving into a student house, as well as a few questions to ask at a student house viewing.
The property’s location
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Is the property within walking distance of university / college?
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Is it close to a bus stop?
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Is it near a railway station?
Gas, electricity and other utilities
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Does the heating system work and is it adequate for the property’s size?
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Do any electric and gas fires work and does the oven and hob function?
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Have you seen the gas safety certificate?
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Have you seen an electrical installation condition report (EICR)?
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Do all the plumbing systems, such as toilets, taps and drainage, work and are they adequate for the property’s size?
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Does the hot water system work?
Property security
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Is the house secure, with adequate locks for windows and doors?
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Does it have a working intruder alarm?
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Are there external lights?
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Are external doors in good condition and do the locks meet modern standards?
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Are there security latches on ground floor windows?
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Do ground floor windows have curtains, shutters or blinds fitted?
Furnishings, fixtures and fittings
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Is the property’s furniture in good condition and adequate for the size of the property?
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Does the furniture and furnishings meet fire safety regulations?
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Does the kitchen have enough storage space for all housemates?
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Is there adequate work surface space for food preparation?
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Do kitchen cupboards and drawers open and close as they should?
Appliances
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Is there a working fridge / freezer and is it large enough for the number of tenants?
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Does the property have a washing machine and dryer?
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Are there instructions for use of appliances?
Property structure
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Are there signs of damp or mould inside the property?
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Are there visible cracks on walls or across ceilings?
Safety
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Are there smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in the property and do they work?
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Are the access points of the property clear from clutter and could you get out in an emergency?
Cleanliness and condition
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Is the property suitably clean?
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Are there any signs of rodents or pests?
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Does the property need decoration or repairs?
Outside the property
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When are the bins collected and is there enough bin storage for the size of the property?
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Are additional services provided with the property, i.e window cleaning, garden maintenance?
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Does the roof look sound?
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Are guttering and downpipes in good condition and free of detritus?
Financial arrangements
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How much is the weekly / monthly rent for your room?
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Does the rent include bills and, if so, which ones?
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Is broadband included in the rent?
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How much is the deposit?
Insurance
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Have you seen a copy of the property’s buildings insurance policy?
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Do you need contents insurance?
Tenancy agreement
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Have you read the tenancy agreement and do you understand it?
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Are you jointly liable for the property’s weekly or monthly rent?
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How much notice do you need to give to leave the property?
Who to contact
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Do you have the landlord’s name and contact details?
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Do you contact the landlord or lettings agent in an emergency?
Renting a house as a student can be a real learning curve, but this checklist should help you remember everything you should be checking out when moving into a uni house.
For more help or information regarding student accommodation, contact your local branch of Martin & Co.
