At Househustler.co.uk we recommend viewing several student homes before signing up. Take someone along for a second opinion. Take notes and photos for each property, to augment information in agent’s details.  Consider the internal features:

• Is the house clean? Check often-overlooked areas like inside ovens and cupboards and behind the toilet. The letting contract turnaround should allow time for cleaning between tenancies. Check who is responsible for this. (It could be hired contract cleaners – or it could be you, at the end of your tenancy!)
• Are bathroom and toilet facilities adequate for the number of sharers?  Check all taps and showers work, and that water pressure is sufficient.
• Ascertain the age and service history of the central heating boiler (Google the make and model, and check any service contract records.) If possible ask previous tenants about any problems or quirks.
• Ask to see the Gas Safety Certificate for all the property’s gas appliances. Make sure it is current i.e. less than 1 year old.
• Of the visible household contents, which are inventoried as belonging with the tenancy? (Viewing occupied houses can give false impressions.) If any essential items are missing (e.g. a cooker or bookcase) ask for them to be provided within the agreement. You can also request non-essentials, but expect to pay extra.
• Is there a washing machine? If so, how old and reliable? Check for signs of leakage.

Student accommodation needn’t be luxurious, but should have all the basics and be comfortable.

When choosing your new student accommodation, you should fully grasp the differing contractual arrangements for each one you view. At Househustler.co.uk we suggest you ask these questions:

• How long has the property been available? If it’s been vacant for ages – why? (Is there a problem with maintenance, or neighbours?) Perhaps you could negotiate a price reduction.
• How much was the house rent last year? (Consult previous tenants or perhaps neighbours.) Is any increase justified by improvements – or is it a try-on? Negotiate wherever possible.
• How long is the Tenancy Agreement for? Student lets are normally for 12 months, but in non-student areas you may be able to get shorter periods.
• Is there a Break Clause in the Tenancy Agreement? (This allows both parties to the contract to end the tenancy after six months with two month’s notice on either side.) If not, request one. It enables you, in effect, to get the length of tenancy you actually want.
• What deposits are required (as a Holding Fee and against damage) the equivalent of a calendar month’s rent is customary. You may also be asked to pay various ‘administration fees’, and sometimes even a month’s rent in advance. Know exactly what’s required before you commit.
• What is the timetable, and acceptable methods, for making payments?

Houses for students, especially in established student areas, tend to have similar Tenancy Agreements, but small variations could help you pick the ideal accommodation for you.