Moving in

There's a lot to think about when moving in; from collecting your keys, arranging a moving van, setting up bills and knowing which day your recycling is collected.

Top tips for houseshares

Once you have signed the contract and know when you are moving in, it's time to get organised.

Before you have moved in
  • Decide which room each person will be living in
  • Work out what you need to bring with you
  • Find out when you can collect your keys and from where.
Inventory

An inventory is a written list of all fixtures, fittings and furniture in the property with an indication of their condition.

It is advised you are present for the inventory/check-in. It is extremely important an inventory is done on the date your contract starts. This should be undertaken by the landlord/agency. Take photographs/records of any defects.

You should notify the landlord/agency as soon as possible of any obvious maintenance/ cleaning issues you see during the check-in.

Rent

You could find yourself threatened with eviction if you can't cope with your rent payments. Make sure you are on top of this and seek help and advice if things get too much.

Council tax

The amount payable depends on the value of the property, how many people live there and if they are registered as full-time students. If all the adults (18 years old or above) living in the property are full-time students, no council tax is payable.

Read more about council tax exceptions and how to apply.

Utility bills

As soon as possible, get in touch with your utility providers to arrange payment of bills (if not included in the rental price).

You may want to consider using Glide, a simple way to spilt bills amongst housemates.

TV licence

It is important to find out if you need a TV licence for your property. Visit the TV licensing website to find out more.

Cleaning

We recommend creating a cleaning rota between yourselves to ensure you are looking after the property fairly as a group.

You will need to consider hoovering/dusting/mopping/washing up/grass cutting of communal areas.

Recycling and waste

If you are living in Guildford, visit the Guildford Borough Council website to find out your bin collection days.

Advice

Know where to go to for any advice during your tenancy.

Reporting issues or repairs

Report any issues with your property to the landlord/agency or your point of contact. Your landlord has to know of a problem to fix it.

It is also helpful if you are aware of what repairing obligations your landlord has by reading the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11.

Living with a resident landlord

If you are living with a resident landlord, you are a lodger and not a tenant. Therefore a very different set of rules apply.

We strongly advisable that you understand what your rights and responsibilities are as a lodger. Be aware that a resident landlord does not need to protect any deposit monies you pay. If you are unable to agree a refund amount at the end then you will have to pursue the resident landlord through the small claims court. This is often costly and not a practical solution.

A resident landlord does not require a possession order to evict you and can give you as little as 24 hours' notice to vacate your accommodation. Make sure that you have a signed agreement in place with the landlord to offer you a level of protection and that you have discussed all the house rules before you sign up and move in.

Things to consider

It is important to understand that your time living in your accommodation should be as enjoyable as possible. 

The way in which you treat your landlord/agency during your time at the property will play a part in deciding whether they allow you renew your tenancy, provide you with a reference or even the speed at which they return your deposit. Always act friendly, polite and professional.

There may be occasions where you become frustrated with your landlord/agency for whatever reason. Remember that every scenario is different and governed by its own unique circumstances and you can always contact the University of Surrey Students Union for impartial advice.

Renewing your tenancy

If you would like to renew your tenancy for a longer period you will need speak to the appropriate person – this should be your lettings agency or your landlord. There may be a charge to renew. Be aware that the landlord can re-negotiate the terms of the contract at this point, including the rental amount.

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