Major things to bear in mind

Always look at more than one house
...check out a few before deciding.

Don't rush into a decision.

Ignore any advice that tells you there's a shortage. Always check with the Accommodation Service about availability.

Always inspect the premises fully and in particular check:

• For signs of damp both inside and out - stains on walls, mould growth (particularly in kitchens and bathrooms), 'salting' brickwork etc. State of doors and windows, do they shut properly?
  
  
• That the gas appliances have been serviced and safety checked within the last 12 months.
  
  
• That the electrical appliances, particularly cooker, fridge and microwave work properly, and that there are sufficient power points.
  
  
• Water supply - check the taps and the means of water heating.
  
  
• For smoke alarms and, in larger properties, fire alarms and fire doors.
  
  
• The house will not be over-crowded.
  
  
• Which furniture and fittings come with the house and which belong to existing tenants.
  
  
• State of the bath and toilet.
  
  

Ensure that you see a copy (or indeed the original) document for Gas (corgi) Safety and Electrical (niciec) Safety.

Please note that all property listed by the Accommodation Service is only included if the CORGI Certificated has been seen by the Accommodation Service.

Once you have found a property/Landlord you are happy with

Ask for a copy of the Tenancy Agreement - then read it carefully.

If there is anything in the contract you are unsure about then contact the Accommodation Service/Advice Service for clarification before you sign it or hand over any monies in lieu of deposit or rent etc.

A few general points are listed below:

Rent -  How much is it?  When is it paid?  Are there any penalties for late payment?

Deposits - Most landlords ask for a returnable deposit to be held against damage or unpaid bills.  The deposit should be no more than one sixth of the annual rent.  Obtain a statement as to what the deposit covers.

Notice period - How much notice is required to leave the property?  If the contract is for a 'fixed term' can you leave before the end?

Security of Tenure - If you share facilities with your Landlord, you usually have very little security of tenure and can be evicted without a court order.  If the landlord is not resident, you cannot generally be evicted without a court order.

Premiums - A premium or 'key money' is a sum of money a landlord can ask for granting a tenancy.  It can be charged in addition to a deposit or rent in advance and is not returnable at the end of the tenancy.

Retainers - Some landlords charge a retainer (usually half rent) over the summer period to reserve the property.  It is not specified as being rent you do not automatically have the right to live in the property during this period.

Maintenance and Extras - The landlord is responsible for keeping the structure and exterior of the property, gas, electric, water, sanitation and heating in good repair.  Some landlords promise repairs, improvements and additional furniture before the start of a tenancy.  ALWAYS GET THIS IN WRITING.

Who pays water rates and fuel bills? - If this is not specified in the tenancy agreement, ask you landlord who will be responsible.  GET THIS IN WRITING.

Council Tax - If all residents in the property are full time students you will be exempt from paying council tax.  If you share with non-students you may be liable to pay.

Inventories - An inventory is a list of the house contents and their condition. If one is provided you should check it thoroughly and notify you landlord of any inaccuracies.  If an inventory is not supplied you should draw up your own and send a copy to your landlord.

Joint Tenancies - If a group of students sign only one agreement renting an entire house, then the landlord can maintain the rent level for the house as a whole even if one tenant leaves.

Joint liability for bills - Ensure that all meters are read when you move into the property and notify the gas, electricity and water companies etc., that you have moved in.  Try to ensure ALL residents have their name on these bills, to avoid one or two people being left to pay the bill.

Produced by the Accommodation Service in conjunction with Student Advice Service.