A step-by-step second year housing guide for Lancaster freshers

It’s that time of year again. Although it’s only been a couple of months since you first met your future housemates, now’s the moment to plan ahead. The annual housing fair is just around the corner on Tuesday 17th November, and pre-planning is your best friend when it comes to housing. Whether you are looking for a house for year two or three, this is your one-stop guide for finding accommodation, stress free.

Step one: Finding housemates

The first thing to think about before anything else is who you would like to live with. Whether these are people you already live with, or new friends you have made, you must be able to trust them. Signing up for housing is a legal contract, and you don’t want to be stuck with housemates who don’t empty the bin for another year. This decision can help make your second year much less stressful.

It’s important to discuss budgets and their preferences when deciding. Having no en-suite can be a deal-breaker for some and fine for others. Many choose to remain on campus while some choose to venture out towards town. Whatever you and your friends prefer, finding accommodation which fits everyone will be a negotiation. 

Living alone is also an option for some. It means you do not have to negotiate with others and can have a space which is just your own. Renting a single room in a shared accommodation is a great option for students looking for a cheaper option. 

Step two: Location 

Once you have established who you would like to live with, choosing a location helps to narrow down the search. The main options students usually go for are campus or town. But it’s not quite so simple. From campus to Bowerham, different areas of town provide pros and cons.

Areas closer to Aldi or Lidl provide opportunity for cheaper groceries and easy access to town and the bus station. Areas like Bowerham and Primrose provide quieter living spaces and views of the city. The Hala area also gives easy travel to both town and campus for those 9am classes.

Parking is another thing to consider if any of your future housemates drive. Accommodation in the city centre can provide limited free parking or permit parking only. Easy access to bus stops is also an important factor for many students who do not drive.

Step three: Letting agencies

The world of letting agents in Lancaster can seem like a minefield. Many students hear horror stories from friends, but it is important to do the research for yourself by looking at reviews and their policies. Lancaster University provides a Homes Standard Accreditation and the Lancaster University Homes website is an easy way to find university checked accommodation and landlords off campus. There’s also the Chancellor’s Wharf accommodation along the canal, owned by the university.

However not being accredited does not necessarily mean other letting agencies aren’t as reliable. It’s important to consider lots as they can all provide a wide range of suitable properties, offering differing contracts.

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Step four: Boring legal stuff

The tedious part. It may not seem as important a year in advance, but ensuring the contract is the best fit for you will save the money and stress.

The most important factors to consider are: contract length, rent structure, bills (included or not) and additional costs. These additional costs such as deposits, TV licence, washer and dryer, can quickly add up. Contract length is a sneaky one as a higher weekly cost can end up cheaper overall if the contract is shorter.

Know your rights as a renter. The new Renter’s Rights Act is important for students to familiarise themselves with before signing. 

Step five: Viewings 

Once all the previous steps have been followed, it’s eventually time to step foot inside a property. House viewings can be intimidating and awkward, but you mustn’t let this distract you.

When touring a house bring a physical or mental list of things to check and ask, if not mentioned on the listing. Damp and mould are not likely shown on pictures but will be smelt and seen in person. The water pressure, heating and Wi-Fi can negatively impact your experience if not up to scratch. You should ensure there is smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms installed.

Speaking to current tenants about their experience can be very helpful if they are available. The first house you view may not be the best fit, but don’t let this put you off. It takes the majority of students multiple viewings to find something they are happy with.

Step six: Sign and celebrate

Once all the steps have been followed and you are happy, it’s time to sign a contract. This is an exciting experience and gives you something to look forward to for the next academic year. Good luck!

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