It's that time of the year again for international students heading to the UK! Have you all sorted out your accommodations? 🤔 Today, let's talk about some important things to keep in mind when renting in the UK. Planning ahead can save you a lot of unnecessary trouble! ❗
Accommodation 🏠
➡️ **Student Dorms:** Affordable, usually inclusive of bills (limited availability, mostly for international students)❗
➡️ **PBSA (Professional Student Apartments):** Modern design, premium facilities, good locations near the university, but relatively higher prices.
➡️ **Off-campus Flats:** Typically two or three-bedroom flats, bills included, similar overall cost to PBSA.
➡️ **Houses:** Cheaper than flats, especially if 4-5 people share a detached villa, averaging around £100-150 per week (excluding bills) 🧐
Rent 💰
➡️ Generally, agencies or landlords may ask international students to pay six months or even a year's rent upfront 🥴
Contracts ➡️
Two common types: sole contract and joint contract. Pay special attention to joint contracts❗ If you rent a two-bedroom flat or a three-bedroom house, even if you don't find roommates, you're responsible for paying rent for their empty rooms 😱
Bills usually cover water, electricity, gas, and internet. Non-inclusive rentals often require self-registration, making payment and handling more complicated❗ So, when renting, always ask whether bills are included to save yourself a lot of hassle. In the end, may you all find your dream house, a satisfying flat! ❗❗❗