
- 26/08/2019
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How To Choose The Right Student Accommodation
Checklist for Choosing New Student Accommodation
Location
- Proximity to Campus: Ensure the accommodation is within a reasonable distance to your classes.
- Public Transportation: Check the availability and convenience of public transport options.
- Safety of the Area: Research the safety of the neighborhood, especially if you’ll be walking home late.
- Nearby Amenities: Look for nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential services.
- Noise Levels: Assess the noise levels, especially if the accommodation is near busy roads or nightlife areas.
Accommodation Type
- Private or Shared: Decide whether you want a private room or are comfortable sharing with others.
- On-Campus vs. Off-Campus: Evaluate the pros and cons of each based on convenience and cost.
- Building Type: Consider the type of building (house, apartment, dormitory) and its condition.
Room and Facilities
- Room Size and Layout: Ensure the room is spacious enough and suits your needs.
- Furnishings: Check what furniture is provided and their condition.
- Kitchen Facilities: Look at the kitchen appliances and space available for cooking.
- Bathroom Facilities: Verify if the bathroom is shared or private, and its cleanliness.
- Laundry Facilities: Check the availability and cost of laundry facilities.
- Internet Access: Ensure high-speed internet is available and included in the rent.
Costs and Contracts
- Rent: Compare rent prices with other accommodations to ensure it’s reasonable.
- Utilities: Check what utilities are included in the rent and estimate additional costs.
- Deposit and Fees: Understand the amount of the security deposit and any additional fees.
- Contract Length: Ensure the lease duration matches your academic year or plans.
- Payment Terms: Clarify payment methods and due dates for rent.
Condition and Maintenance
- Cleanliness: Inspect the overall cleanliness of the accommodation.
- Maintenance: Ask about the procedure for reporting and fixing maintenance issues.
- Heating and Cooling: Ensure the accommodation has adequate heating and cooling systems.
- Pests: Look for signs of pests and ask about pest control measures.
Security
- Locks and Alarms: Check that doors and windows have secure locks and consider if there are alarms.
- Security Personnel: Inquire if there are security personnel or measures in place.
- Fire Safety: Ensure there are smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and clear fire escape routes.
Social Environment
- Housemates: If sharing, try to meet potential housemates to gauge compatibility.
- Rules and Regulations: Understand the house rules, especially regarding guests, noise, and cleanliness.
Accessibility
- Disability Access: Ensure the accommodation is accessible if you have any disabilities.
- Parking: Check for parking availability if you have a car.
Common Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- Hidden Costs: Be wary of hidden costs not mentioned upfront, such as extra fees for amenities.
- Poor Maintenance: Look for signs of neglect in maintenance and slow response times.
- Overcrowding: Avoid places that cram too many people into a small space.
- Bad Contracts: Read the contract carefully for unfair terms, and consider getting legal advice if unsure.
- Noise and Disruptions: Places near noisy venues or with thin walls can be disruptive to your studies and rest.
- Security Concerns: Avoid areas with a high crime rate or accommodations with poor security measures.
- Subpar Internet: Inadequate internet service can severely impact your academic performance.
Taking the time to thoroughly investigate these factors will help ensure you choose a suitable and comfortable student accommodation.