15 January 2025

What to Know Before Renting Your First Student House

So, you’re done with halls, and it’s time to move into your first proper student house. Exciting, right? But let’s be real, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. There are a million things to think about, from finding the perfect place to knowing exactly what to do once you’ve got the keys in your hand. But don’t stress – we’ve got you covered. This guide is here to take you through the process step by step, making it as easy as possible. 

Start Your Search Early

Start early, and you’ll be ahead of the game when it comes to finding the perfect student house.

The ideal time to start searching for a student house in Norwich is between November and March. We publish our available student houses in Norwich in early November, so starting early means you’ll have access to the best options before the rush.

Starting early gives you more time to check out all your options and find a place that’s just right for you, and your friends. If you wait until the last minute, you might be left scrambling for what’s left, and that might mean settling for something that doesn’t quite tick all the boxes.

The earlier you start searching, the more likely you and your friends will find a place that fits your group size. Some houses are better suited to smaller groups (3-4 people), while others work well for larger groups (5-6 people). Starting early gives you a better chance of securing the perfect house for everyone.

Set Your Budget

Before you dive into house hunting, it’s important to figure out what you and your friends can actually afford. Setting a budget helps you narrow down your options and saves time by focusing on houses that are within your reach. Here’s what you need to think about:

Rent and bills: Many student houses don’t include bills, so you’ll need to budget for things like gas, electricity, water, and Wi-Fi. These costs can add up fast, so make sure to factor them into your overall budget.

All-inclusive bills: If you’d rather avoid the hassle of setting up utilities, we work with Unihomes, who offer an all-inclusive package. This means everything from gas to Wi-Fi is bundled into one monthly payment. No surprises here!

Other costs: Beyond rent and bills, there are a few more things to consider. Don’t forget about food, transport, coffee, toiletries, and laundry. Plus, budget for nights out, sports, societies, and other university commitments. These smaller expenses can add up, so it’s smart to plan ahead.

Once you’ve decided on your budget, area, and how many rooms you need, let us know! We can take you and your friends to view all the houses that fit your criteria, so you can check them out together without the hassle of booking multiple viewings or figuring out the logistics. 

Finding Your Student House

Choosing where to live is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s what to consider when looking for your student house in Norwich:

Location matters: Being close to UEA is perfect if you want to be just a 5-10-minute stroll from lectures. If you want to be near the action, the city centre is ideal, with plenty of pubs, bars, and clubs. Bowthorpe is a great option for medical students, as it’s close to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and still well-connected to UEA. If you want the best of both worlds, the Golden Triangle offers a lively vibe with easy access to both UEA and NUA.

Think about the kind of living environment that suits you and your group. If you prefer a quieter experience, a house with 3-4 people might be a good fit. If you’re looking for more social space, aim for a house that accommodates 5-6+ people. The size of the house affects the rent, so make sure it works for both your budget and group size. Keep in mind that the area you choose will also influence the type of house available. Read our detailed area guide for more help on choosing where to live in Norwich.

The student houses we offer come fully furnished with the basics like a bed, wardrobe, and desk. You can always add your personal touch with items like cushions, lamps, or any other decorations that make the space feel like home. If the house is unfurnished, you’ll need to think about buying extra furniture, but the choice is yours to create a space that truly feels like yours!

The Application Process

Once you’ve found the house that’s right for you, it’s time to apply. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

Fill out an application form: This is your way of expressing interest in the property. Once you submit your application, the landlord or letting agent will take the property off the market while they process your details. This doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the house, but it ensures no one else can claim it while your application is being processed.

Guarantor requirement: Most landlords require a guarantor for student tenants. This is usually a parent or guardian who will cover your rent if you can’t pay. Your guarantor will need to provide the necessary documents to support your application. Make sure you’ve spoken to them in advance to avoid delays.

Documents needed: You’ll need to provide proof of student status (such as your student card) and a valid form of ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID card). This helps the landlord or letting agent verify your identity and student status.

Deposits and Rent

Now, let’s talk about the financial side of things. Renting comes with costs, but it’s important to understand what to expect:

Holding deposit: you may be asked for a holding deposit, usually 1 week’s rent, to secure the property while they process your application. Don’t worry, this amount will be deducted from your first month’s rent once everything’s approved and you move in.

Security deposit: The deposit is typically 5 weeks’ rent, which will be advertised with the property. Your deposit should be safely protected by a tenancy deposit scheme – we use TDS. As agreements for student properties are often signed months in advance, the deposit is typically payable one month before your tenancy begins. Your deposit will then be registered with the chosen deposit scheme within 30 days of the payment being taken.

The deposit covers any damages or cleaning costs at the end of your tenancy, and if everything’s in good condition when you leave, you’ll get it back

Monthly rent payments: Rent is typically paid monthly. It’s a good idea to set up a standing order to make sure your payments are made on time. This way, you don’t have to worry about it as the rent comes out automatically (Late payments can sometimes lead to charges) and you can focus on other things.

Inventory

When you move in, the landlord or letting agent will complete an inventory of the property’s condition. This is an important step to protect your deposit:

Go over the inventory carefully when you move in. It should list the condition of the property and all furniture and appliances. If anything is damaged or out of place, make sure it’s noted. It’s a good idea to take photos or videos of the property when you move in. This will serve as evidence if there’s any dispute about damages when you leave.

Make sure you get a signed copy of the inventory and keep it for your records. You’ll need it when you move out. When you leave, the property will be inspected again to check its condition. If the property is in good shape, your deposit will be returned. If there’s damage, the cost will be deducted from your deposit.

Living in Your New Place

If something breaks or needs attention, report it right away. The quicker you address the issue, the easier it will be to get it fixed. Prolet makes this easy with an online system to report problems. If your rent doesn’t include bills, make sure to set up accounts for gas, electricity, and Wi-Fi as soon as possible.

Don’t wait until you run out of hot water to set things up! Keeping the house clean will help you avoid unnecessary cleaning charges when you move out. Try to clean up a little bit every week so it doesn’t get overwhelming. Plus, a tidy house is a happier house!

Moving Out

When it’s time to pack up and leave, It’s best to clean every room and common area. The cleaner the house is, the better your chances of getting your full deposit back. Be present for the check-out inspection.

The landlord or letting agent will inspect the property and note any issues. Make sure you return all keys, fobs, and access cards when you leave. Missing keys could lead to extra charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after I apply?
Once you submit your application, the property will be taken off the market while the landlord processes it. If everything’s approved, you’ll move forward with the paperwork and payment.

What charges will I need to pay?
You’ll need to pay a holding deposit to secure the property, a security deposit, and your monthly rent. Always double-check all fees before signing anything.

Do I need a guarantor?
Yes, most landlords require a guarantor. This is typically a parent or guardian who agrees to cover your rent if you can’t pay.

Do I need property insurance?
It’s a good idea to get contents insurance to protect your personal belongings. Your landlord will cover the building, but your stuff is your responsibility.

Ready to Find Your New Student Home in Norwich?

Renting your first student house doesn’t have to be stressful. With this guide, you’re ready to take the next step and find your perfect place in Norwich.

Need help? Prolet is here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us at student-enquiries@prolet.co.uk or call us at 01603 763363.

Now go ahead, find your new home, and make it your own.

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