Things to look for when choosing student accommodation

Choosing where to live as a student is a big decision. It’s where you’ll sleep study eat and probably make a lot of your best memories. But it’s also one of the biggest expenses you’ll have while you’re at university so it’s worth taking the time to make sure you choose the right place for you.

Whether you’re a first year looking at halls or a returning student thinking about renting a house or flat there are a few key things to look out for that can help you find somewhere comfortable affordable and convenient.

Start with the Location

Location plays a huge role in how much you’ll enjoy your accommodation. Being close to campus can save you a lot of time especially if you’ve got early lectures or late night library sessions. It also makes it easier to get involved with student life join societies or pop back home in between classes.

That said accommodation closer to campus often comes with a higher price tag. So if you’re trying to stick to a budget it might be worth looking slightly further out. You’ll usually get more space for your money and if the area has good transport links it can be a great middle ground.

Don’t forget to check out the neighbourhood too. You’ll want somewhere that feels safe and has easy access to supermarkets cafes gyms and maybe even a good takeaway or two.

And if you’re moving further from campus to save money or get more space for less it’s worth thinking about what to do with any extra belongings. That’s where a student storage unit can be useful giving you the flexibility to live in a smaller space without having to give everything up.

Think About What’s Included

Before you commit to any accommodation it’s important to understand exactly what you’re paying for. Some rent prices include bills like gas electricity water and internet while others don’t. At first glance a cheaper rent might seem like a bargain but if you’re paying all the bills on top it could end up costing you more.

It’s also worth checking whether furniture is included. Most student housing comes furnished but the standard can vary. Make sure you’ll have a proper desk bed wardrobe and enough storage space to avoid cramming your things into piles on the floor.

If you find yourself short on space or storage inside the flat renting a small self storage unit can be a smart way to make your room feel more liveable without upgrading to a more expensive property.

Consider the Contract Length and Flexibility

Some student accommodation providers offer flexible contract lengths while others tie you into the full academic year or even longer. Before signing anything double check the dates and make sure they align with your term times.

You don’t want to be stuck paying rent over the summer if you’re planning to move out in June. And if your course finishes early or you’re going on placement a shorter or rolling contract might be more cost effective.

If there’s a gap between moving out of one place and into another student self storage can help you bridge the transition without having to haul everything home or crash on someone’s sofa for a few weeks.

Look at Safety and Security

Feeling safe in your accommodation is essential. When you’re visiting a property look for things like secure entry systems working locks on bedroom doors and well lit communal areas. If you’re moving into private housing check that the landlord or letting agent is properly accredited and responsive to maintenance issues.

Storage is another area where security matters. If you’re using a student storage unit during the holidays or between moves make sure the facility has good security measures in place. At Urban Locker for example we use 24 hour CCTV individual access codes and secure indoor units so your belongings are protected even when you’re not around.

Check the WiFi and Facilities

You’ll probably be relying on the internet for everything from submitting coursework to streaming films and video calling home. So before you move in it’s worth checking that the WiFi is strong and reliable throughout the property especially in your room.

Other useful facilities include laundry rooms bike storage study spaces and social areas. The more your accommodation offers the less you’ll need to spend elsewhere. It’s also a good idea to look at how well maintained the property is. Signs of damp broken furniture or dirty communal areas could be red flags that the landlord doesn’t keep on top of things.

Don’t Ignore Storage Space

Student rooms are known for being compact. If you’re someone with a lot of belongings whether it’s sports equipment extra clothes books or tech then limited space can quickly become frustrating.

Some student housing has under bed storage built in or wardrobes with plenty of shelving. But if it doesn’t a student self storage unit could be a great add on. It gives you extra space for the things you don’t use every day without paying for a bigger room. You can rotate items in and out during the year and keep your main space clean and organised.

Talk to Current or Past Tenants

If you’re able to chat with students who currently live in the building or have done in the past you’ll often get the most honest opinions. They can tell you what the landlord is like how noisy the area is and whether anything has been an issue.

Reviews on student accommodation websites can also be a good starting point. Look for recurring themes in the comments. If lots of people mention poor heating or unresponsive maintenance those problems are likely still happening.

Take Your Time and Ask Questions

Don’t feel pressured into signing the first place you view. Take your time and ask plenty of questions. Whether it’s about bills security repairs or what happens if something breaks it’s better to know now than be caught off guard later.

Choosing the right accommodation is about more than just price. It’s about finding somewhere that supports your studies your lifestyle and your peace of mind.

At Urban Locker we know student life can be unpredictable. That’s why we offer flexible and affordable student storage solutions for every situation. Whether you need short term storage between terms or a longer solution while living in smaller accommodation we’re here to help you make space for what matters.