Questions British international students must ask when renting a house

- Is the apartment close to the school? Are public transportation, shopping malls, supermarkets, pharmacies, and restaurants convenient? It's best to view the place in person. Transportation is crucial, and the surrounding environment can indicate safety. - How's the security system in the apartment? Is there a 24-hour front desk, security guards, and comprehensive surveillance cameras? - How much is the deposit/rent, and when is it due each month? The deposit must not exceed five weeks' rent and must be returned within 10 days after the contract expires. Before moving in, inspect the facilities and take photos to prevent the agency from deliberately withholding the deposit. - Does the apartment include utilities? Pay close attention to the contract, especially regarding utility bills. Confirm the payment method, preferably automatic recharge. Otherwise, you'll need to remind the agency to pay each month. Also, check for any limits to avoid unexpected additional charges. - Are the prices the same for each room? - Are there password locks on the doors? How's the soundproofing? Are the furnishings complete? Check all facilities before moving in to ensure they won't affect our daily life. - Who is responsible for maintenance if there are issues with the facilities? How are the costs calculated? - What are the bed sizes, orientations, and lighting conditions? This is crucial as the UK is often damp and rainy, which some students may find intolerable. It's essential to know in advance. - Where can packages be received? Is there Wi-Fi? This is vital for easy communication with family. - Does the apartment allow pets, DIY wallpaper, parties, or bringing friends over? If you're fine with these behaviors, great. But if you value nighttime rest, it's crucial to know in advance to avoid headaches. - Is there heating, air conditioning (though rare in the UK), and a good kitchen ventilation system? Cooking at home is inevitable, so this is crucial. Safety is paramount, so be sure to inquire about it thoroughly! Feel free to add any other comments or questions below.