1. Damp

Damp on ceiling

Although regulations on rented shared housing are improving, many houses still suffer from severe damp and black mould problems.

Unfortunately, student houses are often under maintained, poorly looked after, and old. As a result, damp is a common nightmare for many students.

It also needs to be taken seriously. Damp not only smells bad, but it can also cause health problems and ruin clothes.

When viewing a potential student lets, check the walls and ceilings, particularly around windows. Look out for flaking paint or wallpaper, black mould patches and a musky smell.

Ask to look in and behind wardrobes – student landlords often try to cover up any signs of damp.

2. Rats, mice and other pests

The slug terminator

Infestations are another big problem in student houses! Common pests include mice, slugs, fruit flys, pigeons and sometimes even rats.

We’re not going to lie – students are messy and leave food lying about for days. Even so, some houses have better defences than others against pesky invaders.

When viewing a house don’t be afraid to check inside kitchen cupboards and work surfaces. Look for traps, rodent droppings and slug trails especially.

On the top floor, listen out for pigeons nesting in the attic. Trust me, they can get very, very annoying! Again, student landlords will try hard to cover up any type of infestation, so you need to be alert and on the lookout for these tell-tale signs.

3. Location, Location..

We get the message..

We all know (thanks to certain day-time television) that location is paramount when choosing any type of accommodation.

Figure out how close the student house is to bus stops, newsagents, supermarkets, doctors, and your university campus etc.

You may also be drawn to a location because it’s the student place to be (‘the ghetto’).  Most students want to be where all the house parties are.  But remember that these party areas don’t always boast the nicest homes. Think carefully about whether you are willing to sacrifice a nicer house for a more lively location.

4. Security and Safety

The police publish worrying student crime statistics every year. Apparently, in some cities like Manchester, 1-in-3 students will be a victim of crime. So as irrelevant as it might seem when viewing houses, security and safety is an issue which needs to be taken seriously.

Check that the property has a burglar alarm system, and check windows and doors for safety locks.

If you are worried about security, mention it to your landlord. They will probably improve locks and access points to secure the contract.

A must have on ground floor windows

House security ties in with location. Do some research on the area to find out how safe it is, especially at night. No doubt you will be walking back intoxicated in the dark hours – a time when your guard is down and you are at your most vulnerable.

Houses on well lit main roads are often the most secure. Quiet areas may appeal to some students, but they can have their downside too when it comes to crime.

Also, remember to check that the property has working fire alarms, extinguishers and fire blankets. There must also be clearly marked emergency exits.

If you will be living in a group of 6 or more students, the landlord will be required to abide by stringent HMO regulations. Whilst they are required to be met by law, they can be hard to enforce. They exist for your safety and comfort, so check up on what they involve on the internet or with your local council.

5. Electric appliances

Once again, don’t be afraid to check appliances cater sufficiently for your needs as a group and are in working order. Be clear on what is included in the tenancy (eg. microwave).

Point things of concern out and ensure the landlord addresses them before moving in. For example, bear in mind the size or number of appliances for the size of your group. One fridge or freezer between six students will be far too small.

On a side note, be weary of dodgy looking plug sockets and loose cables.

6. The water supply

Groups of students will be using the bathroom several times a day. Poor water pressure does not make for a happy household! When viewing, turn on the taps and make sure it’s more than a dribble.

At the same time, look out for damp patches or possible leaks. Water damage is seriously costly and can be dangerous.

7. Furnishings and Fittings

..except broken springs

Have a clear idea of what’s included in the tenancy and what’s not. A nice leather sofa might be the selling point, but it might not be there come summer time.

Be aware that landlords must provide each tenant with a suitable desk and chair.

If possible, check bed mattresses for broken springs which become dangerous over time.

8. Resist freebies and gimmicks

Some landlords will offer so-called freebies, such as a massive flat screen television or no utilities bills for the year. They often seem like amazing deals. While they sometimes can be, try and remember that landlords often employ these deals to rent the property at a higher price.

You have got to be smart here. A nice widescreen TV couldn’t be much more enticing to a group of students, but you will be paying for the privilege in your rent. Ignore the gimmicks. Instead, look at the rest of the house and see if it matches up with the rent being asked for.

9. Beware of the letting agent

Go for 'no agency fees'

Student letting agents are often employed by landlords to source potential tenants. Of course, these agencies are beneficial to both parities, but just remember they are known for clever tactics too.

Don’t give in to pushy or disrespectful agencies. Remember to go through any tenancy agreement or contract with your friends before signing anything.

Be well aware of administration or agency fees which often crop up at the last minute.

Always try and make contact with the landlord or the person who will be managing the property. Make sure that they’re local and can always be contacted in emergencies.

10. Talk to existing tenants

'House is great success!'

Nobody has a better idea of what the house is like than the current tenants. They are likely to offer an unbiased and realistic account on what the house is like as a fellow student.

You can ask them about any of the key issues raised above, such as security and damp.

A really good insight can come from simply asking them: “So, what’s the best and worst thing about this house?”

If the landlord’s not over your shoulder, they might make you aware of anything the landlord has missed our or is trying to cover up. If they seem pretty happy then that’s the best testimony you can get in knowing the house will be equally suitable for you.