Before you Move In
Congratulations! You got a flat, go you!
Now you’ve secured the flat, what do you do?
You should receive:
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A Gas safety certificate issued within the last year
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Evidence of an electrical inspection within the last five years
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Tenancy deposit protection scheme information
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Energy performance certificate
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The Government's “how to rent” guide
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Confirmation in writing if your bills are included, either in an email, letter or in your tenancy agreement
Now you should:
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Make sure you know what your rights are as a student, there are many helpful resources on the internet that can direct you. Here's a good one.
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Make sure other appliances (washing machine) are included in the inventory. Inventories are included in the next section! '. A landlord is usually responsible for repairs for appliances that are provided but if there is accidental or deliberate damage a student may have some liability.
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Make sure they have fixed any broken appliances or problems in the flat. If not, take pictures of them to have proof that these items were broken when you moved in.
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Make sure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are fitted by your landlord, although when you live in the property you should test them regularly.
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Carefully read and sign the lease, make sure you are happy with the tenancy agreement and don’t be afraid to question the meaning of certain clauses. Do not sign anything you are not 100% clear about.
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Most landlords require you to pay the deposit and one month’s rent before you move in. Letting agents are legally not allowed to charge you for any other fees when you sign up to rent a flat.
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Decide who amongst you is going to get what bedroom.
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Make sure to get any correspondance or anything you agree with your landlord/agency in writing (usually an email is fine).