Moving out of halls and into private accommodation can be an exciting, yet VERY stressful time... 😮‍💨

Whether you're moving into private accommodation for the first time or setting off into the real world, there are lots of things you need to know!

Use our checklist to make sure you have the best experience possible in your new home. Here's our list of the things to remember: 

1. Have you met the neighbours? 👋🏼Introduce yourself to your new neighbours, it will help you feel more settled and welcome! Either way, happy neighbours = a happy life.
2.  Completed the inventory? 📑One of the first things you need to do is take photos and make note of any damages and the general condition of the house/flat to save any awkward and heated conversations with the landlord later on...
3. Are you eligible for council tax exemption? 🤔It's only going to benefit to you and help you save a little money if you don't have to pay council tax on top of your other bills! Check to see if you're eligible.
4. Have you taken the meter readings? 🔌Take the gas, electricity, and water readings as soon as you get there and register your details with the supplier to make sure your bills all run smoothly. 
5. Sorted your TV license? 🖥Make sure you get your TV license sorted once you're all moved in and settled in or if you already have one, just update your address. Remember that if you're sharing a house, you only need one license for the whole house.
6. Do you understand your contract? 🤨We know how contracts work and can advise you on the contract document, check for possible unfair contract clauses and explain what all these clauses actually mean. Get in touch and check out more about our free contract checking service.
7. When is bin collection day? 🚮No one wants a stinky bin, so find out when bin collection day is. You might be able to get text reminders from the council or just stick to writing it on your kitchen calendar so all your flatmates are clear.
8. Are you on the electoral register? 🗳Your vote matters so it's important that you're registered to vote at your new address. This saves you having to go home or mess around getting a postal vote sorted!
9. Do you have contents insurance? 💰It's always better to be safe than sorry, so get your contents insured just in case. Students can get some great deals on insurance if you look around - Endsleigh are great! 
10. Have you registered with a local GP? 👩🏽‍⚕️Get yourself a GP that's close to your new accommodation or if you've already got one in the city, make sure you notify them of your address change. The sooner you do it, the less you'll have to worry about it

Did you know that UAL offers independent accommodation advice to all UAL students? Our dedicated advisor can advise you on a wide range of information about renting privately or living in independent halls and can even read over your new housing contract.Explore the ‘Private Accommodation' section on UAL's website for a range of really useful information about renting privately in London. 

We wish you all the best of luck in your new home and hope you have a great time there! 😄