Your ultimate student accomodation checklist

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.
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The property’s location

  • Is the property within walking distance of university / college?
  • Is it close to a bus stop?
  • Is it near a railway station?


Gas, electricity and other utilities

  • Does the heating system work and is it adequate for the property’s size?
  • Do any electric and gas fires work and does the oven and hob function?
  • Have you seen the gas safety certificate?
  • Have you seen an electrical installation condition report (EICR)?
  • Do all the plumbing systems, such as toilets, taps and drainage, work and are they adequate for the property’s size?
  • Does the hot water system work?


Property security

  • Is the house secure, with adequate locks for windows and doors?
  • Does it have a working intruder alarm?
  • Are there external lights?
  • Are external doors in good condition and do the locks meet modern standards?
  • Are there security latches on ground floor windows?
  • Do ground floor windows have curtains, shutters or blinds fitted?


Furnishings, fixtures and fittings

  • Is the property’s furniture in good condition and adequate for the size of the property?
  • Does the furniture and furnishings meet fire safety regulations?
  • Does the kitchen have enough storage space for all housemates?
  • Is there adequate work surface space for food preparation?
  • Do kitchen cupboards and drawers open and close as they should?


Appliances

  • Is there a working fridge / freezer and is it large enough for the number of tenants?
  • Does the property have a washing machine and dryer?
  • Are there instructions for use of appliances?


Property structure

  • Are there signs of damp or mould inside the property?
  • Are there visible cracks on walls or across ceilings?


Safety

  • Are there smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in the property and do they work?
  • Are the access points of the property clear from clutter and could you get out in an emergency?


Cleanliness and condition

  • Is the property suitably clean?
  • Are there any signs of rodents or pests?
  • Does the property need decoration or repairs?


Outside the property

  • When are the bins collected and is there enough bin storage for the size of the property?
  • Are additional services provided with the property, i.e window cleaning, garden maintenance?
  • Does the roof look sound?
  • Are guttering and downpipes in good condition and free of detritus?


Financial arrangements

  • How much is the weekly / monthly rent for your room?
  • Does the rent include bills and, if so, which ones?
  • Is broadband included in the rent?
  • How much is the deposit?


Insurance

  • Have you seen a copy of the property’s buildings insurance policy?
  • Do you need contents insurance?


Tenancy agreement

  • Have you read the tenancy agreement and do you understand it?
  • Are you jointly liable for the property’s weekly or monthly rent?
  • How much notice do you need to give to leave the property?


Who to contact

  • Do you have the landlord’s name and contact details?
  • 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.