How to engage with landlords

You’ve done all your research and found a great student property! But knowing what to do next can be stressful, and figuring out the right questions to ask can be laborious. So here is a guide for engaging with landlords.

Now you are ready to inquire about the property by contacting the landlord!

This can be an intimidating process, as you try to determine the right questions to ask while fostering a good relationship with your potential future landlord. You will want to ensure your landlord is equally as trustworthy as the property.

Here is your checklist of what to look out for and ask landlords:

• Is there a carbon monoxide detector, and where?

From 1st October 2022, the law changed in England, making carbon monoxide detectors a requirement of any room which contains a fixed combustion appliance, e.g. gas or oil boilers, log-burning stoves, Wood-burning stoves, Warm air heaters, and Water heaters  (excluding gas cookers). See the Health and Safety Executive guidance for more information.

• Who manages/ conducts repairs?
• Is there a Tenant Deposit Scheme?
• Are bills included?
• Is the gas metered or billed?
• What is the contract length?
• Is there a ‘get out’ clause?
• Do they have a copy of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and Gas Safety Certificate?
• Is there full maintenance and cleaning before moving in?
• How does their summer let work?
• •  Can you store items in the property over the summer?
  • Can you pay half rent while the property is unoccupied?

Property Viewings:

Sometimes, a landlord will take you to the property themselves, or they will let the current tenants show you around. Entering other students' houses can be daunting, but there is nothing to fear; this is simply a part of the process. Property viewings become a routine for students; they will have had their property looked at before and gone to look at others. You are mutually trying to find trustworthy and secure homes. So often, they can provide vital information with lived experience.

What to ask:

• What is the average price of bills each month?
• What is their experience with the landlord?
• How long does it usually take for repairs and maintenance to be conducted?

What to look for:

You can see every room of the property, but if for some reason you cannot enter a room, you can ask to be sent pictures of the room later. This is sometimes your only chance to see the property before signing the contract, therefore open eyes and attention to detail can be helpful. Look for the following:

• Doors and windows- do they look secure and lock properly?
• Are there any signs of mould or dampness?

Not all of these will be necessary, but this extensive guide allows you to approach your housing search with confidence and questions ready!