There are both lows and highs when you are trying to find the perfect Leicester Uni accommodation. The thought of making new acquaintances with new opportunities, freedom and a brand new place to call home can leave you excited. But, it could also seem overwhelming, considering that many other students are searching for a place to live too.
It’s simple to become caught in the excitement of viewing student homes, and be enticed to purchase a home that isn’t the right fit for you.
Take action – by taking some simple steps, you’ll be able in a position to take an informed choice. To assist you we’ve compiled our top 10 suggestions for viewing the student housing.
1. The signs of damp
If you’re looking at student accommodations one of the major issues to look at is moisture. Not only is it a problem for sofas and clothing and furniture, but it also poses danger to your health if not properly addressed, particularly for asthma and hayfever sufferers. Fortunately, it’s usually easy to recognize.
In the search to find damp and damp in student housing search for:
Black mould or mildew can be found on walls, floors, or ceilings
Discoloured or peeling areas of wallpaper or paint
The excessive amount of condensation that has accumulated in windows, windowsills and on the windows.
If you rub against the walls, do they feel damp or cold?
Do your rooms smell musty?
Damp is common in the wardrobes and cabinets So, take some fun looking through.
2. Location
One of the primary concerns to consider when looking at student residences is: would you be comfortable living there? In order to feel more comfortable in the location, take a walk in the morning or after the viewing. Are the roads around well lit, and do you feel comfortable walking in the dark?
Also, check the transportation links Are there any stations near by? What time do buses end their service at the night? What is the nearest shop? What is the neighborhood like? If you’re a family with young children that is, then you could bang heads over large house parties.
3. Pest control
“THERE’S A MOUSE IN THE KITCHEN”There’s a mouse in the kitchen!” It’s grim.
While you’re at the viewing, make sure to look out for droppings of rodents, traps and slug tracks. If you see any, report them off to the letting agency or landlord, or simply take this property out of your criteria and move to the next.
4. Safety first
Unfortunately, houses for students are often targets for burglars. Laptops and other gadgets within the house along with students who are between rooms and possibility for doors and windows to be opened.
Therefore, it’s essential to determine how secure your property is. Are the windows and doors are secured with high-quality locks? It is also possible to inquire whether the door has an alarm for burglars an added benefit since it’s not a legal necessity to have one.
When looking at student accommodations it is also important to think about the safety of fire. In England the landlord is required to take an obligation to ensure that there’s a functioning smoke alarm on each floor on the premises. The landlord must also supply fire extinguishers for those who reside in a huge home or in a House with Multiple Occupation (HMO).
Be on the lookout for suspicious looking cable connections or plug sockets that are loose or exposed These can be very hazardous and must be dealt with immediately.
5. Appliances, furnishings and furniture
If you are looking at student homes take note of the specific appliances and furniture that are in the house. You may be focusing at the sofas that are squishy and only find out they belong to the previous owner! From towel racks to beds It’s best to verify and you’ll be aware of what you’ll need to bring along.
Consider the layout that would work best for the flat and you. Is the kitchen an issue? Does the fridge have enough space? If you are planning to have family meals at home, is there a table that you and your family can be seated at?
If any of the furniture or appliances are damaged, it’s moment to report them to your landlord or agent and fix them before you move into the property.
6. Water
In shared housing It is safe to say there will be plenty of toilet use. But, do you have enough toilet facilities? A bathroom shared by six people could be a hassle. If you wish to avoid a splashy shower you can test the water pressure by swiftly activating a faucet or shower.
7. Wi-Fi
Scrolling, studying, streaming A reliable internet connection is vital. Ask the agent who is letting or the landlord about how strong the connection is and if it can be reached in all rooms.
8. The insulation
Do you want to wear three sweaters and 2 pairs of socks, and an hat for the entire winter? Verify that the windows are double-glazed and that the door isn’t shivering as well as if the heater is good in good working order. A well-insulated student home could save you a large sum of money in relation to your energy bills.
9. Beware of freebies
It is possible to find landlords that offer exciting “freebies” that include paid for utility bills as well as big televisions. Be cautious, this amazing deal could be a ruse to make rent more expensive. Always consider the cost first. If you’re able to afford the house and you can get freebies as well, then it’s a win and win. But don’t be fooled into thinking otherwise.
10. Contact existing tenants
If you’re lucky , the current tenants will be living in the home at the time you visit it. This is the ideal chance to obtain an impartial opinions. You can ask them “what’s the most enjoyable and least enjoyable benefit of living in this house?
They could tell you that the landlord has a hard time to address issues and that the neighbors are the worst nightmare…Or they’re content living there and don’t have anything to complain about. If that’s the case, you could be on the right track!
All Sorted.
If you come across a property that meets the criteria for you and your flatmates , now is the time to make a commitment! The new term is about to begin and you’ve all settled in, make sure you protect your treasured possessions by securing insurance for content. It’s only two minutes to go through and can cost just a few dollars a month.