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Questions to ask when looking for your student home…

Whether this is your first time renting, or you’ve been here before, there are important questions you should ask any prospective landlord. It is a landlord’s responsibility to provide a safe, well maintained home which meets legal requirements. These are some of the questions you can ask to ensure you’re getting a great home.

1) Does this property have a HMO licence?

Most, but not all Northampton student homes require a HMO licence. This licence demonstrates that the house has been checked for safety and compliance by the council.

 

2) Are the gas and electrics tested annually and are the certificates displayed in the property?

This is critical for your safety.

 

3) Are you DASH (Decent and Safe Homes) accredited and a member of the Northampton Student Landlord Network?

Membership of these networks demonstrates the landlord takes their responsibilities seriously.

 

4) Do you respond to repairs and maintenance requests quickly and repair or diagnose any issues within 24 hours?

Communication is key! You need a landlord who is responsive and prepared to get things done quickly.

 

5) Do you offer a tenancy agreement that is prepared by a recognised body?

Tenancy documents that are prepared by landlord organisations, or leading legal firms will be up to date with the latest legislation and ensure you have the correct rights.

 

6) Do you register our deposit in a government backed scheme?

It’s important that your landlord registers your deposit to ensure you have a mediation service and the option to raise a dispute with a third party.

 

7) Do you include bills in the rent to offer worry-free living?

Bills included makes budgeting easier and is one less thing for you to think about!

 

8) Do you include the smart TV so we can watch our favourite streaming services?

A communal smart TV included means you can move in, get together and relax with a bowl of popcorn and binge the latest series.

 

9) Do you do the gardening?

Check who is responsible for keeping the garden maintained. Cutting the grass, cutting back bushes and sweeping up takes time!

 

10) We have more questions. Are you open to answering questions via WhatsApp or email?

Entering into a tenancy agreement is a commitment and can feel daunting. Make sure your prospective landlord is approachable and welcomes questions.

Looking for a landlord who says YES to all of these questions?

Then consider a home from Boswell Living!

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