So you've lived in halls, but we all know that doesn't really count, right? Here's our tips for moving into your very first grown-up house.
Bills
Bills are boring. So, unsurprisingly they’re easily forgotten. Probably because that's the way we want it to be. However, as much as we like to forget them - companies don't, and you'll know about it when your water or wifi is cut off.
There is no simple rule to paying them and they vary depending on almost everything. Whilst bills can be more expensive if there’s more of you - they can also be cheaper. It depends on the policy so it’s super important to choose a plan that best suits you. It may be cheaper to organise bills separate from one another but that comes with the inevitable hassle of keeping on track with what leaves your account and when. Whereas, some others are clumped together and you pay a set fee for bills on a regular basis - which is ideal if you’re not the most organised household.
A top tip would be to search around and not just settle. If you just go for the first company you hear about - you’re probably going to be paying more. Not ideal. Definitely discuss it with other housemates and see what benefits you can get and remember to look out for companies which offer to refund what you don’t use, especially if you won't be staying in your uni house over summer!
Cleaning / Damage
Moving into a new place can be so exciting - but less so if the property isn’t what you were expecting when you turn up. It’s a student nightmare and a common one at that. More often than not tenancy agreements guarantee you a fully functioning and clean home for the year. So if yours isn’t that - tell someone.
If you’ve paid a large deposit to ensure that you return the property in brand spanking new condition, it ought to have been that way when you arrived. If something isn’t working that needs to be, then contact your landlord or estate agent as soon as you realise. If the property is dirty and left in a poor state, we can all agree that’s not cool and again - contact someone.
If you’ve moved into a damaged property then it’s best to take photos and log them by sending them to either your landlord or estate agent to cover your own back the following year. After all, who doesn’t want their deposit back?
Rent Payments
Perhaps the most important of all. Rent. Without it? Well, you’d have no home. This is something you should have considered way before moving in and need to make sure you can afford throughout your tenancy. It’s sometimes best to pre-arrange for the money to leave your account on certain dates so it gives you a little less to worry about. As long as you make sure the funds are there - all should be good.
Moving out from first-year accommodation
Moving out is just as important as moving in. If you’re wanting your deposits back, everything has to go! If your room isn’t exactly how you found it - make it that way! Accommodation companies would love to keep your deposit just as much as you would, so don’t give them an excuse to. It’s also super helpful to book check out appointments for the day you move out since it speeds up the process and improves your chances of a full deposit being given back.
Also, make sure you change your addresses! Accidentally ordering something to your old accommodation is nothing short of a nightmare and you’ll probably never see it again: The harsh truth.
Room organising
It’s best to dive right in and start unpacking and redecorating as soon as you move in. That way, you can make a list of things you still need, and make a pile of things that just don’t deserve a place in your new home. It’s SO refreshing, and the best way to get into a good mindset about your new place. If it doesn’t feel like a home to you then you’ll want to be there less. It’s all about making it yours. Non-damage clips and tape are a staple in trying to make the place homely without leaving it damaged. You’re welcome.
By organising the property its the best opportunity you’ll get to become familiar with and check everything. Does your washing machine work? Will your phone charger reach your bed? Where shall we put the hoover and never take it out?
Initiate good communication with the landlord
Lastly and most importantly of all - befriend your landlord. Even if they are a pain. If you have any problems throughout the year they will be your first call. So it’s even more important to make sure you know how to best communicate with them. Emails? Texts? Whatsapp? Phone Calls? We’re not saying make them your bestie - but be nice! They’re supposed to be here to help. When your boiler breaks and it's -4 degrees out, you'll be thrilled that you know how to reach them quickly!
So good luck in your first foray into real adult-ing... You might have the odd broken washing machine or mouse infestation, but you'll also have the best time! Promise...
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