editorial
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l Continued from page 76 Housemate 4: Alex – spokesman and
forward planner. Alex knew his friends, he could see Emma mentally spending her last tenner on vodka just as the electricity bill was falling onto the doormat. He sat down and worked
out the cost of all the group’s bills, set up direct debits and put up notices to tell everyone how much they owed each month.
Think about how much gas,
water, electricity, Internet, TV, telephones and all other amenities will cost you, and remember to tell the council that you’re all students or you’ll be liable to pay Council Tax too. If you get a chance, speak to
the current tenants and ask them how much they are spending on bills.
Housemate 5: James – the level headed
organiser The group were really excited about their new house, but so far had done very little, except arrange a housewarming bash. So James took the bull by the horn and armed with this magazine headed out to see
Staring at the stain wont clean it off!
some landlords and ask about some places that would suit the group. Being an organised soul, James had already talked to everyone about budget and location and could arrange some viewings. Make sure that you start
your search as soon as possible, the later you leave it, the fewer properties there will be, but don’t panic, there are more than enough houses for everyone. Encourage everyone that will be living in the house to come to each viewing, if you have a large group this make
take some sorting, but it will mean that everyone gets to see each house and you can make a decision that pleases the whole group.
Don’t commit to the first
house you see, James had to calm everyone down, and point out that if you take the first place you have nothing to com- pare it to. Take your time to examine the quality of proper- ties in your chosen area and pick the best value for your money.
Remember no matter how
safe you feel, never go to view a property alone, and always let
people know where you are going and what time you expect to return.
Housemate 6: Jenny
– the inquisitive mind Jenny had lived in bad houses before, she wanted to know her new place would be safe and secure. She asked the landlord if their place had a valid gas safety certificate (required by law) and if it was part of the University’s accreditation scheme.
much rent and deposit the landlord wanted upfront, and if there was a finder’s fee, or any admin fees to contend with. The group also talked to the old tenants to find out how reliable the landlord was, and how effi- ciently he dealt with problems. Next the group properly
checked out the area, was there adequate street lighting? What were the noise levels during the day and evening? When you go into the prop- erty, check the front door is secure, that there is plenty of furniture, that the taps work properly, the toilets flush, and that there are no signs of damp. Are there plants growing in the gutters, and missing down-pipes? Are the window frames rotting?
She wanted to know how
This is going to be your home so do not be afraid to question the landlord or agency on any of these mat- ters.
Housemate 7: Rob –
the deal maker. The group had found the per- fect house. But Rob knew that by signing a contract you are entering a legally binding agreement. It was vital that everything
hours or days to make sure everything is in order than to sign straight away. If you’re unsure ask the landlord if you can return the contract to him the next day or so. Read the contract carefully.
Take your time and do not rush into anything.
University’s Housing Office and didn’t sign or pay until he was 100% sure on everything. It is important that you
insist on a copy of the contract for yourself.
never know when you might need it. Also get a receipt for all payments made regarding the property.
Keep it in a safe place, you Rob sought advice from his
was in order and that they were satisfied with each of the terms and agreements. It is better to delay for a few
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