Koosimaire.com

Look Out For When Renting Student Accommodation in Lancashire

Students are one of the most active groups of tenants and many have a wide range of accommodation options. Whether you choose to live in halls, private rented house or shared flats, it’s important that you’re prepared and take the time to do your research. This article will give you a quick overview of the top 5 things to look out for when renting Lancashire student accommodation.

Student landlords are responsible for more than the average landlord as most of their properties are classed as houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). This means that they have to meet stricter fire, gas and electrical safety regulations and they also have to register their properties with the university accommodation office.

This can add an extra layer of admin on a landlord but it also allows them to promote their property to a much wider pool of potential tenants. Landlords can use internal university marketing and advertising services to advertise their student properties directly to students, rather than paying a third party to do so.

When viewing a student property it is important to check for dampness, particularly in the corners of rooms, behind wardrobes and around windows. This is a common issue in student houses and it can cause significant health issues for tenants. Typical warning signs of dampness are black mould patches, condensation on the windows and ceilings, flaking paint or wallpaper and a musky smell.

It is also worth checking that the property has double-glazed windows and that there are no draughts. This will help to reduce energy bills and make the property more comfortable.

Top 5 Things to Look Out For When Renting Student Accommodation in Lancashire

Lastly, it is worth asking the landlord about their maintenance policies. Typically, student landlords will have an emergency repairs line which can be contacted after hours and they will also have a system in place to deal with maintenance requests from students. This should be documented and provided to each tenant before they move in.

Location is a key factor when it comes to choosing a property, but don’t forget that you’ll also be spending a lot of time travelling between your home and university so you want to ensure that the area is safe and convenient. You might not be able to fully understand how a new area will feel until you actually live there but you can ask current students about their experiences and do your own research online.

There are numerous benefits associated with student accommodation. Firstly, it fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students. Living in close quarters with peers who share similar goals and aspirations creates a supportive community where students can form lifelong friendships and engage in intellectual and cultural exchange. Additionally, student accommodation often provides access to support services, such as residential advisors or mentors, who offer guidance on academic and personal matters, helping students navigate the challenges of university life successfully.

One approach is to increase the availability of on-campus accommodation. This provides students with the convenience of living within the campus premises, reducing transportation costs and enhancing their sense of belonging to the academic community. Additionally, on-campus housing often includes meal plans, further alleviating financial burdens and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Most student tenants will have a guarantor (usually their parents or a close friend) so missing rent payments is a less of an issue than it would be for non-students. However, if you’re renting from a private landlord it’s always wise to consider taking out a tenancy deposit protection policy to protect yourself against any damage or unpaid rent that may occur.

Many student landlords will expect a student to pay their rent upfront in order to be taken seriously. This can be a good way to minimise the risk of late payment and it also helps the landlord to avoid the hassle and expense of eviction procedures.