Finding accommodation
Thursday 4 September 2008
Couldn’t get halls for uni and desperately need to find accommodation? n2k gives you tips on how to find the best student house.
When to start looking
Accommodation is one of the most important things you need to sort out. Give yourself enough time to search for an appropriate house that is close to your uni, in good condition and most importantly, safe.
A potential house
Make a list of all the houses that have living potential and contact the number given to book a viewing. Here are a few things to remember before and during the viewing:
- Is the house in good condition? Investigate everything – bedrooms, doors, secure windows etc.
- Is there a fire alarm and extinguisher provided? All student houses should have them.
- Check out the local area – is it safe? Are there local shops and is there access to public transport?
- Gas and electricity – ask to see utility certificates.
- How and when are bills paid?
- Does the house have internet and phone access?
You don't want a house like the one below!
Now you know what your looking for - so get searching!
Online
Websites like Accommodation for Students only advertise students houses and this is a good starting point if you don't have anyone to move in with.
Facebook is a student’s best friend of course, and houses are sometimes advertised there. Be aware of safety online - look out for a full list of details and ask lots of questions first.
Campus accommodation office
Your university's accommodation office will be able to recommend, or even blacklist, agencies and landlords whose reputation may or may not be suitable.
Current students always put notices for rooms to let, so it’s worth checking back every few days to see if there’s something new.
Some Student Unions have accommodation groups - and where better to get advice about student housing then from an actual student?
Housing days
Councils and agencies may be invited to the event to give you some really good advice.
Here you can also meet others in the same situation as you. If you meet anyone who you click with, mention the idea of living together. They’re probably thinking the same thing too and at least you would have met a housemate before moving in!
Local agencies
An option which is becoming less common these days is to visit a few of your local housing agencies. There you will be able to receive a full description of the house and can immediately ask the realtor any questions you may have. However, this may be quite inconvenient if you live miles away from the uni.
Remember, take your time during the viewing and never feel forced to sign a contract. Try to take a family member or a friend along for a second opinion too. This is a house you’ll be contracted to live in for a year, so you won’t want to have any regrets!
