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.
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
- 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.