The Top 9 Things You Need to Know Before Moving into Student Accommodation

You have studied hard and are now off to uni, congratulations! Now it’s time to get ready to move into your university accommodation. You have likely never done anything like this before and it may feel a little daunting as you won’t know what to expect. To help make the transition that little bit easier, we have compiled some things you can do ahead of the move to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Whether you are moving into student housing or halls of residence, we are here to help!

Tips for moving into student accommodation

Make a packing list

Make sure you create a packing list a few weeks before the move so you have time to get everything you need. It’s a good idea to check what’s provided by your student accommodation to make sure you don’t take anything that will already be there. Items such as kettles and toasters are brought to accommodation by students, when most halls will supply these for you.

A top tip when making your packing list is to be sure to include things to make your room feel a little more like home, think about things like fairy lights, photo frames and a nice new duvet cover to help you settle in a little more easily. Read our blog on the ultimate guide on what to take to university to ensure nothing gets left behind!

Set up a student bank account

It’s always a good idea to set up a student bank account as they often come with extra benefits such as interest-free overdrafts, free railcards and other free gifts. It’s best to get this sorted ahead of the move though as you will want to spend that time meeting new people and exploring your new home. Also, this is can be the bank account you will use for rent payments, so getting this set up ahead of the move is essential.

Gather all the required documents

Before you arrive, it’s a good idea to start gathering all the relevant documents to ensure everything runs smoothly. Your university may require a variety of documents to assist with your registration, so get these documents photocopied and together in a folder. These documents may include:

• Passport and driving license
• Student finance documents
• Vaccination history
• Accommodation and university acceptance letters

Sort the relevant utility services and bills

Dependant on what type of university accommodation you’re in, you may need to set up the relevant utilities. If you are in a student house, then you could be required to organise utilities such as water, gas and electric yourself. It may be worth contacting your landlord ahead of time to discuss this further and find out the current providers at the property. You won’t need to worry about council tax bills as a student though, so that’s a bonus!

If you are in student halls, then utility services can be covered within your rent so you won’t have to organise this yourself. However, you’ll need to arrange for your own TV licence to ensure you don’t break the law. As you will be paying rent for your own room, you will be living in what is classed as a separate dwelling. Therefore, if you are planning to watch any live TV, or anything on the BBC, then you will need to apply for your own TV licence.

You may also need to consider contents insurance to ensure all of your belongings are protected from any potential damage or theft. This could be included with your rent if you are living in halls, but double check by contacting your student accommodation providers.

Tell people about your new address

Make sure to update your friends and family with your new address. You don’t want to miss out on any birthday cards! As well as loved ones, you should update any institutions and providers of your new address, such as your university, your bank and mobile phone provider. That way, you won’t miss any important post and updates.

Think about transport

Before you arrive at your student accommodation, it’s a good idea to research transport links in the area. Find out how far away campus is and the quickest route to get there. This will help you decide on whether to bring your car with you or leave it at home. Speak with your accommodation provider to see if there is space to leave your car whilst at uni.

Prep for your course

Ahead of the starting date, your university may set some work to do for your first day. Make sure to check your university website for any updates on expected work and course information. They may also supply a suggested reading list so you can buy any books you need before the course begins.

Find your new flatmates

You may have the opportunity to get to know your flatmates and other students before the big moving day. Your university or student accommodation may have a Facebook page or other social media platform designed to help bring new students together ahead of the move. You may be lucky enough to find out who your flatmates are and can spend some time messaging them to find out a bit more about them before you start living together.

Review your accommodation information

Whilst it may be tempting to gloss over the inventory and accommodation information, it’s important to give it the full attention it needs. At the beginning of your tenancy, you should review your inventory and ensure that all the details are correct. The inventory is used to decide whether you should get your full deposit back, so it’s essential this information is as accurate as possible.

You should also check over other important information such as when rent payments are due and what else is included. If you have any questions, then speak to your accommodation office to ensure everything is sorted ahead of the move.

Discover student accommodation in Bournemouth

If you are still on the lookout for perfect student accommodation in Bournemouth, then why not consider Lulworth Student Company? Perfectly situated in the heart of the Lansdowne campus, our student halls of residence make the perfect option for those studying at Bournemouth University, AUB or the AECC. All our ensuite rooms and studio flats are of the highest quality, but at a great price, helping you to get the most out of your student budget.

For more information, visit our booking page, or get in touch with a member of our team.