Now that your space at university is secured, the next big task is to actually get yourself here!

For most students, moving away to university is their first experience of living away from home. This can be a daunting prospect, but we're here to help with a handy list of things to think about before and during your move.

Important things to remember before moving into privately rented accommodation.

1. Ask about all payments before taking a property so you don’t have to deal with any unexpected costs

2. Get a receipt from your landlord or letting agent when you pay any money - you'll need this in case there are any problems.

3. You might be asked to pay a holding deposit to reserve a property. Don't pay it or sign anything unless you're sure you want the property - you usually won’t get the money back if you change your mind. If you’re renting with other people you should only be charged one holding deposit between you

Things to remember during your move

1. Take your meter readings, preferably by phone. Then email these to your landlord/letting agency both at the beginning and the end of the tenancy. It's always good to have photographs as a backup.

2. Find out what your utility tariffs are so that you can monitor your usage – if you go over the “fair usage” amount included in your rent, you will be charged extra at the end of your tenancy. 

3. Take photos of everything – you will be charged at the end of the tenancy if you do not return the property in the same condition. 

4. Make sure you understand the terms of your contract – come to Advice if you need help understanding the terms, particularly with giving notice when you want to leave 

5. Familiarise yourself with www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/renting-a-home/student-housing/students-in-private-rented-accommodation which has plenty of useful information on renting privately.

6. Your deposit should be secured in one of three protected schemes and your landlord should give you the details within 30 days. 

7. Make sure you have a written record of communications with your landlord/letting agency. If you agree to something on the phone, send a confirmation email after -  you will be surprised at how forgetful some landlords/agents are and you won’t have a leg to stand on if you have nothing in writing.

Remember the SU Advice Centre are always on hand to help, they also offer a free tenancy checking service, don't forget to get your agreement checked before you sign it, so you don't end up in a pickle with your new landlords!

Get in touch with the SU Advice CentreHere