A student house can look completely different in person from the listing. The aim of a viewing is to test the practical details that will affect daily life and to identify questions that need a written answer before anyone commits.
This checklist is general information rather than legal advice. Housing rules and individual tenancy terms can change, so use current official guidance where a legal point matters.
Before you go inside
Look at the journey as well as the building. Check the route from the property to campus, transport stops, shops and the places you are likely to visit in the evening.
- Does the route feel practical in poor weather and after dark?
- Is there secure cycle storage or suitable parking where needed?
- Are bins, entrances and shared external areas maintained?
- Can you hear significant road, rail, venue or neighbour noise?
Check condition rather than decoration
New cushions and bright photographs can distract from the condition of the property. Look closely at walls, ceilings, windows, floors and the areas around showers and sinks.
- Signs of damp, mould, leaks or persistent condensation.
- Windows that close properly and appear secure.
- Working heating controls and enough radiators for the space.
- Visible damage that should be recorded or repaired before move-in.
Compare every bedroom
Groups often focus on the communal space and only glance at the bedrooms. Measure mentally whether each room can support sleeping, studying and storage without becoming cramped.
- Bed size and usable floor space.
- Desk, chair, wardrobe and drawer storage.
- Number and location of power sockets.
- Noise from roads, communal rooms, boilers or neighbouring properties.
Confirm the money in writing
Ask for a clear breakdown of rent, deposits, permitted payments and the bills that are included or excluded. A holding deposit can be up to one week's rent, while tenancy deposit limits and protection requirements are set by current government rules.
Do not rely on a verbal promise that a repair, furniture item or bill will be included. Ask for important commitments to appear in writing before signing.
Questions to ask before leaving
Use the viewing to close information gaps. You should leave knowing who manages the property, how repairs are reported, what happens before move-in and what the proposed agreement requires from each tenant and guarantor.
- When is the property available and what is the proposed move-in process?
- Which repairs or improvements will be completed before the tenancy starts?
- Are tenants jointly responsible for the full rent or only their own share?
- What are the guarantor requirements?
- Which deposit protection scheme will be used where protection is required?
Useful official sources
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