Wednesday 09-10-2024 - 13:43

 

 

Calling all off-campus students – whether it’s your first time living off campus, or you’re moving into different accommodation in town, check out this handy guide to moving in!

 

 

This checklist consists of important actions you can take to ensure your safety as a tenant. By ticking each box, it means making life easier for yourself in the future – whether that’s when you’re getting your deposit back, or when your shower goes mouldy, and you voice it as a complaint.

 

Cover the basics

Take photos of the whole property, especially:

• the walls, ceilings and floors (all rooms)
• the paintwork & marks on walls
• any furniture, appliances and cupboards
• window and door fittings
• any areas of concern

Take note (or pictures!) of meter readings, Citizens Advice has this guide on how to read meters.

Make an inventory & get it signed off by the landlord. OpenRent has a template available here.

Locate the stopcock, here’s how.

Check all appliances are functioning (if not tell the landlord!)

 

Helpful tips

Landlords must give 24 hours’ notice before coming over (unless your tenancy agreement says otherwise). It’s important you have the landlord’s contact information in case of repairs.

Does your contract include a TV license & parking permit? If not, you can buy them online.

• Buy a TV license here
• More information about university-managed parking here

Check you have the keys to the front door, backdoor, shed, and windows.

If something needs repairing, tell your landlord & get written confirmation it will be fixed.

 

The LUSU Advice team is here to help! If you’re facing issues with your housing situation or contract, please contact our LUSU Advice service for support:

lusuadvice@lancaster.ac.uk

01524 593765

Drop in at the students’ union Welcome Desk in Bowland Main.