Tags – What To Look For When Viewing a Student House
There would be nothing worse than signing a contract for your student house, only to find nasty surprises once you’ve moved in.
A lot of students fall into costly traps when renting, and half of students feel as though their student house is poor value for money.
With that in mind, you shouldn’t rush into any decisions and view houses properly to avoid living in a place you’re not happy with.
Most of the time, you will hear from other course mates, student union reps or even the university, advising you to find a house as soon as possible, so it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed.
However, the reality is – whether you begin your hunt in November, January or even April, there will be plenty of student houses available.
So, take a deep breath and check out these 5 things you should absolutely be looking for.
1. Damp
Luckily, it’s fairly easy to spot unwelcomed damp when viewing a property.
When walking around your potential new house, make sure to glance over at the walls, ceilings and windows to check for any signs of damp – such as black mould or mildew, discoloured patches of paint and more than usual condensation on windows.
In addition, check behind bigger furniture, like wardrobes or cupboards where damp may be hidden.
Consequently, dampness can cause health issues like asthma, so whilst a black mark on the wall may not seem like an issue – it can be a warning sign of bigger problems to come.
2. Pests
Having pests invade your home is quite a common problem in student houses, whether it be mice, flies, cockroaches or rats – they’re not pleasant!
Usually, this is as a result of previous tenants who have left food and overflowed bins lying around, but you shouldn’t have to live with pests too.
As such, don’t be afraid to check kitchen cupboards and around bins for signs of droppings, slug trails or traps – you’d rather identify any signs now, than call pest control a month into your tenancy!
3. Security
Typically, crime rates in student areas are higher than usual as opportunists take advantage of young people who come home late (and drunk), and leave their windows or doors open.
Therefore, security should be taken seriously when viewing a student house; check for an alarm system and doors are properly secured, especially the main door.
In regards to locks, most properties will have a Yale lock, which means your house is well secured from the inside – if you’re not sure about locks, ask your landlord what type has been fitted.
Moreover, research the area before moving in to find out how safe it is and houses on well-lit main roads are usually more secure.
4. Insulation
Unless bills are included in your contract, energy bills could be one of your biggest costs as a student.
And, if your new student house does not have proper insulation, you could be paying £100s more than you needed to throughout the whole year.
In other words, you want to ensure your house is properly insulated in order to stay warm and dry without spending a fortune on heating.
What to look for then, is to check that windows are double glazed to help keep in heat, doors properly fitted with no large gaps and a good heating system with at least one radiator in each room.
5. Water Supply
If you’re living with a few other students who are using the bathroom several times throughout the day, a poor water supply is not going to make a happy household.
So when you’re viewing the house, turn the taps to check there’s not just a dribble that comes out.
Secondly, you’ll want to make sure that the toilet flushes properly and is working as it should.
Lastly, if you spot any taps that are leaking, check with your lettings agent if these are going to be prepared as a leaky tap can not only waste a lot of water, but quickly rack up your water bill too.
The Final Word
Now you know the 5 important things to look for when viewing a student house, your search should be a lot easier in finding the perfect home for your university life.
Make sure to spot these things before signing any contracts, or you may be tied to a place you’re miserable in.
Most importantly though, finding a new house is an exciting time so have fun and good luck!
For more information, please contact us today.
Check out our Student Accommodation Leicester services in the meantime.
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