The housing world is difficult to navigate, especially when you’re completely new to it. Whether you’re a fresh-faced first year or an experienced postgraduate, taking that step of independence and sorting out your own accommodation can be daunting. From fees to essential insurance, here are just a few things all students should know before heading into the realm of private renting.
Don’t overpay fees
You may find that fees keep popping up out of nowhere before you’ve even moved in, leaving you with little budget for university books and supplies.
There is finally a solution to the issue of overcharging – one that tenants will be delighted to hear. As of 1st June 2019, the government has put a stop to unnecessary costs with the Tenant Fees Act 2019. You can read more here, but this basically means landlords and estate agents can no longer charge you extra for things such as reinstalling smoke alarms, admin work and credit checks.
Consider going private
Many students are cajoled into thinking on-campus halls is the only real option when it comes to accommodation, but this isn’t the case. A house share tends to be much cheaper than halls and is far more homely than the basic set-up of such accommodation. Private renting is particularly beneficial for mature or master students, as well as those who want a home away from home rather than the standard student flat.
If you’re worried about the social side of renting privately, simply look for some fellow students using badi. Our profiles clearly display the age range that the landlord is looking for, as well as information about anyone else that is living there. You can’t always pick who you live with when going into halls, whereas if you use badi, you can have a coffee and a chat to decide if you’re right for each other before signing a contract.
Always read reviews
As a student, it’s always tempting to go with the cheapest or most convenient option but that doesn’t always mean it’s worth it.
Use social media and student websites to find real reviews about the accommodation you’re considering as well as taking a tour around if possible. By using badi, you can be confident that you’re searching through a trusted community of verified users who have taken steps to confirm their identity.
Contents insurance
Unfortunately, contents insurance typically isn’t included in your rent. You may think it’s an unneeded cost but you’d be kicking yourself if the worst happened and you had to buy a new laptop or TV.
Policies will differ depending on what plan you opt for, but contents insurance typically covers damage caused by fires, floods/storms, vandalism and theft. Some may also protect your belongings from accidental damage, but this is something you’ll have to check.
How close should you be?
It may not come as a surprise, but the closer you are to the university’s main campus, the more expensive the accommodation will be. This is particularly true when it comes to the university-owned options, which tends to be pricey. Consider living away from the main student areas to save money, especially take public transport to class.
With options in university cities all over the world, badi is a great way of finding alternative accommodation to halls. With features to help you meet similar people, you’ll find the right match for you in no time.
It’s important to remember all these things when moving in, but equally make sure you know how to get out of a contract if it doesn’t work out or something goes wrong.
Last Updated on October 15, 2024
Published on January 10, 2020
