Been to visit a couple of houses today to rent for next year whilst at uni.  3 of us are moving in together and all fell in love with this house. The room I'm having is AMAZING! I'm getting the biggest room although I am paying more so thats fair :)

The Landlord seem's really nice and allows pets (current people in another of his houses have a dog) although my house mates are putting me straight and saying we can't get a dog as it's not practicle (at uni all day, moving next year, small house etc etc etc)

Was wondering if anyone can give any advice when signing the contract?  We are going to do so, plus pay deposit on wednesday evening.  What should I look out for? What have people been caught out on in the past?

Thanks

I'll get Nik to check this out with Vik tomorrow (she and 2 others are renting a student house in Derby just now), Rox, if it's not too late.    Make sure about the deposit - what inspection is needed when you give the house up, before the deposit is returned - I think No 2 son had a fight to get his deposit back ...AND I'd been up to check and help clean it before it was handed over!

Margot

Too late to add so :-

1.   Take photos (with dates on) of ALL rooms, so that you know what the condition is/was when you start - its too easy to forget.
2.    Check on what rate you will be paying for electricity gas .....is it the landlord's meter?

Margot

Thanks Margot.  Will check with some things on wednesday.  He told us utility bills will be roughly £20 each a month.  I know it's not always good taking just words.  Was already planing on taking pictures of rooms as soon as we move in when it looks like it will look when we leave! :)  He does however allow us to decorate ourselves aslong as it's nothing too outrageous! :D

Also take an inventory of all items supplied by the landlord and the condition they are in when you move in i.e. burns in carpets or upholstery and get all to sign so that it is clear when you leave what damage you have done and what was existing.

Sue