What to expect when you arrive to your hall at move-in

Moving into university halls marks your first real taste of independence – swapping the comfort of home for a room in a corridor full of strangers.

It's where you'll learn to navigate the art of communal living, all while forging friendships that often outlast your degree.

Here's an overview of what to expect when you arrive to your new home on move in weekend to help you have a smooth transition into your new life in halls.

🏡 UAL Managed Halls 🏡

*This will include Archwood House, Furzedown and Cedars Halls, Gardens House, Glassyard Building, Highline Building, Portland House, Sketch House and The Costume Store.

Here's what you can expect when you arrive to your new hall:

1) Arrive during your confirmed move-in time slot

2) Head to the reception or check-in desk.

3) Show your photo ID to collect your keys.

4) Your Residence Team or helpers will guide you towards your room.

5) You’ll complete a room inventory report, noting any existing damage or issues.

6) Once the report is signed you’re ready to settle in.

🏠 Partner-Managed Halls 🏠

 *This includes Emily Bowes Court, Stratford House, Wick Park and YourTRIBE Southwark.

Here's what you can expect when you arrive to your new hall:

1) Follow your partner organisation’s arrival instructions (usually sent by email).

2) Arrive at their front desk or reception area.

3) Present ID and complete their check-in process, including an inventory check.

4) A staff member or helper will guide you to your room.

📌 Optional Quiet Check-In & Solo Travellers 📌

We know that arriving on move-in day can be overwhelming, especially if you're coming on your own or prefer a calmer start. That's why we offer both:

❌ Reporting issues early ❌

If you notice any problems such as a faulty lock, broken furniture, or missing items, report them immediately. Early reporting ensures issues are resolved promptly and not flagged as your responsibility later.

 📲 Getting connected 📲

Follow hall-specific instructions provided at check-in to connect to Wi‑Fi and your accommodation portal (for Partner-Managed Halls).

Through these systems you can:

1) Submit maintenance requests

2_ Keep track of hall notices

3) Book communal spaces and access community event

🥳 Meet your Hall Community 🥳

You’ll meet your on-site residence team during your welcome session.

Halls Life Student Committee Members or partner organisation on-site residence team may introduce you to flatmates and communal areas. Hall noticeboards and TV screens will quickly help you find halls events, facilities, and safety updates.

📭 Mail, facilities & how things work 📭

Find out where to collect mail and parcels (see your Hall Highlights page). Learn how laundry facilities work. Some might require a hall-specific app or card top-ups.

Familiarise yourself with locations of shared kitchens, study spaces, recycling points, and bike storage.

🛌 Room Inventory & Condition reports 🛌 

When you move into your room, you'll be asked to check its condition and complete a room inventory. This is your chance to record anything that isn’t quite right, so you’re not held responsible for it when you move out.

What to expect:

You’ll usually have up to 48 hours from the time you move in to complete and submit the form. Use this time to look carefully at your room and furniture. If you notice anything missing, damaged, or not working, include it in your report.

Why it matters?

The inventory is your official record of the room’s condition when you arrived. It’s used during your check-out inspection to assess any damage or charges.

Submitting your inventory accurately and on time helps protect you from being charged for any issues that weren’t your fault.

Top tips for doing your inventory:

1) Take photos or videos as extra documentation, especially if you’re noting anything damaged or worn.

2) Don’t wait to report serious problems—flag them right away to your on-site residence team.

3) Keep a copy of your completed inventory for your records.

4) If you're unsure how to fill in your inventory or submit it, speak to your on-site residence team. They are there to help.