Moving into university accommodation is a huge step! It’s a chance to live independently, make new friends, and experience student life to the fullest. But it also means big responsibility. You’re responsible for your housing, budget, and safety. So how do you choose the right place to live?
The first step is to tour the accommodation options available at your university. This will give you a good overview of what’s available and help you narrow down your choices. But it’s not enough to just take a tour; you also need to ask the right questions.
42 Questions to ask when touring university accommodation:
- How many students live in the residence?
- What is the average age of the students in the residence?
- What is the gender ratio in the residence?
- How many rooms are there in each suite/apartment?
- How many people share a bedroom?
- What is the size of each bedroom?
- What is the size of each bed?
- Is there a private bathroom in each suite/apartment?
- If not, how many people share a bathroom?
- Is there a separate kitchen or a shared kitchen in each suite/apartment?
- If shared, how many people share a kitchen?
- What appliances are included in each kitchen?
- Is there a common area in the residence?
- If yes, what amenities does it include?
- Does the residence have laundry facilities?
- If so, are these coin-operated or can they be used free of charge?
- Does the residence have study rooms or lounges?
- If yes, what equipment or furniture is available in these rooms?
- Does the residence have Wi-Fi access?
- If so, is it free to use, or do students need to purchase a plan?
- Does the residence have cable TV access?
- If yes, is it free to use, or do students need to purchase a subscription?
- Is public transportation easily accessible from the residence?
- Are parking spaces available for residents’ vehicles?
- If so, is there a fee for parking and how much is it per month/year?
- What is the minimum length of stay?
- How much does accommodation cost?
- What is included in the cost of the accommodation?
- How long is the contract?
- When can I move in?
- Can I move in early?
- Is there a security deposit?
- How is the rent paid?
- Are there discounts or scholarships for accommodation?
- How close is the accommodation to campus?
- Is the accommodation safe and secure?
- Who do I contact if something needs to be fixed in my room or the common areas?
- Are there additional fees I should be aware of (e.g., for use of the swimming pool or gym membership)?
- Are pets allowed?
- May I decorate my room?
- Can guests stay overnight? If so, how often and what are the charges?
- What happens if I want to cancel my accommodation contract early?
Frequently Asked Questions
What warning signs should you be aware of when looking for university accommodation?
One sign to look out for is an unusually high price tag. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is. Also, be wary of landlords who try to pressure you into signing a lease. Take your time and read the lease agreement thoroughly before signing anything. Finally, inspect the property before agreeing to rent it. This way, you can make sure that it is in good condition and meets your needs.
Can you get a refund for your accommodation?
If you are unhappy with your accommodations, you can receive a refund at most universities. However, the process for doing so can be quite complicated and often requires the submission of numerous documents. Read the university’s refund policy carefully and start the process as soon as possible if you want to move out.
Conclusion
Asking these questions when looking at university accommodation will help you find the perfect place to live! Consider your budget, roommates, facility needs, and desired amenities when making your decision. And do not forget to ask about campus safety!
