Most students in university cities like Chester and other busy metropolises face the prospect of finding a suitable home.
For many students, this is a major step and marks the first time they have made their own decision about where they live. While this new-found freedom is liberating and allows students to select an option tailored to their unique needs and personal taste, there are some important points to consider.
In this blog, we’ll explore some aspects worth looking for when picking your first student house. Whether you’re sharing with friends or going solo in a place of your own for privacy, read on to get prepared for visiting available accommodation aimed at students.
Where is the student housing located?
Always start by looking at where the student accommodation is based and what is nearby. Find out how close the address is to the university campus where you study. This will make it easier for you to get to lectures on time and faster to get home to make the most of your free time. Being able to walk or cycle to university can reduce expense by cutting out travel costs from your budget.
If you seek lower rents further out of town or like to travel frequently or go home to visit family and friends, make sure you have access to useful transport links. Look for local bus stops nearby and the distance to trains and coach stations.
Consider if there are amenities in proximity. Supermarkets, shops and pharmacies in easy reach are valuable but pubs, coffee shops, affordable eateries and take-aways can also come in handy.
How safe is the student accommodation?
Read up on the area you’re considering moving to and don’t be afraid to ask existing student tenants what it’s like. Make sure that the house has sufficient security including a burglar alarm and strong locks on windows, exterior doors and your bedroom doors if it’s a flat share. Check fire safety standards are well-maintained with essential apparatus like smoke alarms in place. While the property will have building insurance, consider contents insurance to protect your personal belongings.
What essentials does the address come with?
Sometimes it can be difficult to assess what is included in a student property when you view housing that is still occupied. Always find out what appliances will be present when you move in. Usually, student houses are always supplied with a cooker and a fridge, but other options include more like washing machines, microwaves, televisions and even dishwashers.
It’s important to ask if utilities are included in the rent. As a student you’ll be exempt from paying council tax, but many landlords and letting agencies offer bills included accommodation. This means the cost of electricity, gas, water and sometimes Wi-Fi are all covered monthly rent payments.
Always confirm the inventory so you know exactly what is provided and what you’ll need to source for yourself before moving in. Remember that when you move out, you’ll need to account for everything on the inventory, or it may be subtracted from your deposit, so ensure everything is present when you move in.
What condition is the property in?
When inspecting a student property, it’s important to look for any signs of disrepair. Look for unwanted issues like mould and damp on walls, especially in areas experiencing moisture like communal kitchens and bathrooms. Check the functionality of any appliances and utilities and verify they all work properly.
Do you understand your tenancy agreement and its terms?
Always read the tenancy agreement for the property and ensure that you fully understand it. The agreement is a legally binding document and will outline how much rent is, when it is due and how it is paid. It will also cover the length of the tenancy and responsibilities regarding property maintenance.
Are you looking for your first student house?
Specialists in student property management in Chester, our team at Bed Student Rentals understand the accommodation need of undergraduates and postgraduates in the city. We provide a wide range of high-quality housing situations in neighbourhoods close to the university and useful amenities for shopping and socialising. Around 90% of our properties are bills included student accommodation in Chester to keep life simple so reach out to us to find out more or check out our latest listings today.
Written By
Jolan