Renting at university can be a daunting prospect for many students, especially if it is their first time living away from home. However, this also a fantastic opportunity to gain independence and experience a new place. If you are planning on renting at a university in the UK, here is a guide to help you navigate through the process.
Reasons to Rent at a UK University
Apart from the experience of living in a new place with new people, other benefits of finding an accommodation in a UK university include saving on commute time, focusing on studies and making new friends. Following are some factors that explain the perks of living in the university campus:
Flexibility:
Renting allows you to have more flexibility in terms of where you live and how long you stay. Since you won’t have to buy a property, you can have a timed lease or choose to move on at the end of the academic year if you need to.
Affordability:
It can be more affordable than buying a property, especially if you are only planning on living in the area for a few years. Another cost-effective option is to share the accommodation with your friends or other students, as you can split the rent and bills between you. Check www.studentbillscompany.co.uk on how you can split your expenses and have a unified bills for the amenities you use.
Convenience:
Renting can be a more convenient option, as you don’t have to worry about maintenance or repairs. If something goes wrong in your rented accommodation, it’s the landlord’s responsibility to fix it.
Tips for Renting at University:
Start looking early:
It is always a good idea to start looking for a university accommodation as soon as you can, as the demand for student housing is often high. Do not wait until the last minute to start your search, as you may struggle to find a suitable place to live.
Opt for shared accommodation:
Sharing a house or flat with other students can be a great way to save money on rent and bills. It can also be a great way to make new friends and build a support network at university.
Budget planning:
Before you start looking for a place to rent, it’s important to make a budget and stick to it. Consider the costs of rent, bills, and any other expenses, such as travel costs or groceries.
Guarantor:
Many landlords will ask for a guarantor, who is responsible for paying the rent if you can’t. This is usually a parent or guardian who is willing to take on this responsibility. Make sure you have a guarantor before you start looking for a place to rent.
Read the tenancy agreement carefully:
Before you sign a tenancy agreement, make sure you read it carefully and understand the terms and conditions. These include the length of the tenancy, amount of rent you’ll be paying, and any fees or charges that may apply.
Take a tour in and around the house:
Before you move in, it is advisable to take an inventory of the house and surrounding property and make a note of any existing damage or issues. This will help to ensure that you don’t get charged for damage that was already there when you moved in.
Pay your rent on time:
It is paramount that pay your rent on time every month. This will help avoid falling into arrears and potentially losing your tenancy. Make sure you have a system in place to ensure that you always pay your rent on time, such as setting up a direct debit or standing order. With Student Bills Company, you get a unified bill for all the services you use and even split the bills amongst the residents. You can also set reminders of due dates so that you never miss paying a bill. For more details, visit www.studentbillscompany.co.uk.
Look after the property:
As a tenant, it’s your responsibility to take care of the property and report any repairs or maintenance issues to your landlord. This will help to ensure that the property is in good condition and will be more attractive to future tenants.
In conclusion, by following these tips and being proactive in your search for an accommodation at university in the UK, you can find a suitable place to live that meets your needs and budget.
