Search around, dont settle for first accomodation (Private accommodation in general)

Member Name: mizzy

Product:	Private accommodation in general
Date:	16/07/08 (31 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: More private than halls

Disadvantages: Louder if you live with loud people, can get messy as no cleaners

My experience of private accomodation has been mixed.
I live in a student area and thus crime is high. I have been burguled and it was very upsetting, Im therefore always winging on about security. One thing to bear in mind when you are deciding who to live with is can you trust them to shut the door if they are drunk and coming in last at night?
When looking through the masses of landlords houses I have some tips to make sure you do:
*Ask about bolier saftey checks, is there a certificate to say its been done in the last year
*Check walls and inside nooks and crannys for damp, and underneath the boiler.
*Ask your landlord to put all repairs promised in your contract
*Ask around or the current tenants to see if the landlord is any good.
*Agree a rent in writing and dont sign a contract til youve had it checked by an independent source such as your union.
*Make sure everyone is agreed and you know they will stick to the contract and pay their rent ontime. A good thing to do is to set up a standing order or a joint house bank account.
*Take out personal possessions insurance, that way if you do get burgled then you know you are definately covered.
*Finally agree a time to move in and ask the landlord in advance if this date is ok.
My first landlord was great until giving back deposits, he became rude and angry at me.
Second landlord is an agency but they own our property. They have left the flat in great condition and done most things we asked for and have promised to complete the rest within a set time limit.

Summary: I would recommend trying it as it is fun most of the time