If you're getting ahead of the game and thinking about your housing for next year already, check out these tips from The Students' Union Advice Centre.
First tip; don’t panic. The Students’ Union Advice Centre are here to help you.
You still have plenty of time and we’re holding our annual Accommodation Fair on 24 January 2019 to support you with renting in the private sector and answer any questions you might have.
If you want to get ahead of the game though, or think you may have already found somewhere suitable, take a quick look at our top tips before you commit.
Remember, once you sign the contract it is legally binding. Take your time and make sure you’ve read the contract properly. If in doubt, bring it along to us in the Advice Centre; we offer a free tenancy agreement checking service.
If it’s a joint tenancy, make sure you trust who you’re moving in with. Once you sign the contract, you have joint and several liability for the rental payments, so if one tenant decides to leave, you will still be liable for their share of the rent.
Are any utilities included in the rent? If not, work out the budget – will you be able to afford the monthly payments and is the rent within your budget?
Make sure you have checked the property is secure. Is there enough furniture provided? Are there any signs of damp? Check who is responsible for maintenance – this should be your landlord/agency. Download a viewing checklist here.
If you’re in doubt over anything don’t sign the contract. If you don’t get this property, there will be plenty of others. You can come to our Accommodation Fair in January to meet private landlords and other accommodation providers, and receive help and support in finding a house.
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