Accommodation introduction

Some good rules to follow:

• Live as near as possible to the site (campus) where you will be studying (saves travel costs!)
• Work out what you can afford before signing a contract
• Decide if you want to be self catering
• If you want your meals included check which accommodation (halls of residence) will provide them
• Make sure you have space to study and store work if living at home
• Check whether access and adaptations are available if you have a disability

See the interactive section below: Accommodation Options.

Before you get to university:

• Be clear about what you want
• Find out what is available from the prospectus, Disability Statement or web page
• Visit the campus and view the halls, especially if you have any specific requirements
• When you view halls of residence at Open Day, make a note of which you like best so you can apply for accommodation there when the time comes
• Talk to the university's Accommodation Services if you are unsure about anything
• You will probably get an Accommodation Pack with your offer of a place. Complete and return as soon as possible for the best chance of getting your first choice
• Be specific when filling in the forms (remember what you liked at Open Day). If you are not specific you may not get what you want
• Give more than one choice of accommodation
• If you accept a place through Clearing, contact Accommodation immediately to see what is available.

See the interactive section to the right for detailed information.

On your course

Insurance...

You should insure any personal belongings that you will be keeping in your accommodation. Cheap insurance will be available at the Freshers' Fair at the start of term, or from the Student Union. The university may have a block policy that you can sign up to with your accommodation package.

Disputes...

Most private renting arrangements are trouble free. However it is possible that you could get into a dispute with your landlord.

Safety...

You must be aware of your own safety and the safety of your property. There are a few basic safety rules you should know about.

See the interactive section below for Accommodation Checklist and Safety Checklist

Moving On

It is very likely that you will want to change your accommodation during the years you are at university. This should not be a problem but remember that if you have entered into any sort of contract with the university, a private landlord or even friends, you could be liable for a whole year's rent if you want to move out part of the way through a term. Plan your moves to fit in with a new academic year.

Don't forget to give the appropriate notice when you are moving out of accommodation.

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