Find out what you need to do when moving into your private sector accommodation.
Moving into private sector accommodation
Moving in check-list
- If you’re in a joint tenancy, make sure everyone has paid their deposit and any rent in advance - you may be refused the keys to the property if any payments are outstanding
- Before you move your personal items into the property, take plenty of photos to note the condition of your room and any communal areas
- If you are paying for bills, take a first meter reading on the day you move in and share this with your utility suppliers
- Apply online for your council tax exemption - you can find an exemption certificate on your e:Vision account
- Take out contents insurance and check whether you are covered by your parent or guardian’s insurance
- Make sure to get a TV licence to cover your household for live tv shows, streaming and more
- Update your contact details on online stores, with your bank and the University.
.jpg)
Your landlord or letting agency will share more information with you about the date when you can pick up your keys and take possession of your new house in York.
Make sure that all of your housemates have paid their share of the deposit and any rent in advance. If even one of you has not paid, the landlord can refuse to give you the keys and you’ll be unable to move in.
Paying your bills
Most purpose-built student accommodation and some letting agencies will offer bills included within the rent, however it is more common for shared private houses to not have bills included. Check your tenancy agreement to understand if bills are included.
Price comparison websites will let you understand who is the cheapest provider in your area and may offer additional discounts. Take your time to find the best deal for you and your housemates.
Make sure that all of your housemates are happy with the monthly rate for these bills and agree how they will be paid. Failing to pay your bills may result in late fees, damage to your credit scores, and difficulty securing housing in the future.
If you are struggling with paying your bills, get in touch with the Student Advice team for budgeting advice and financial assistance.
Council tax
If you are a full time registered student, you are exempt from paying council tax. This is not automatic and you will need to apply for a council tax exemption so you don’t receive a council tax bill. Sometimes council tax is included in your rent, but your tenancy agreement will need to clearly state this. If you are in doubt, contact your landlord or letting agency.
Even if you are living in a shared house, you will all need to individually apply to be exempt. You can order a Council Tax Exemption Certificate from your e:Vision account. The certificate details the programme you are enrolled on and states that you should be exempt from council tax for this time. You can find out more by visiting the York City Council website.
Contents insurance
It is important that you take out contents insurance to cover your personal items in case of an emergency at your property. Most contents insurance will allow you compensation should your items be damaged by a flood or fire at the property or if there's a burglary.
Many price comparison websites will allow you to explore what type of cover you require and find a price point that fits your budget.
If you are living in purpose-built student accommodation, speak with staff at the site to understand if this insurance is already included in your rent.
.jpg)
TV license
A TV licence is required if you watch any live TV or BBC iPlayer. If you are caught watching live TV on any device without a licence, fines can be up to £1,000. Note, TV licences are backdated to the beginning of the month.
If you are sharing your house as a part of a joint tenancy, then you will only need one TV licence for the entire property. If you each have individual tenancy contracts and you wish to watch live-streamed TV (whether on a TV, computer or phone) you will each have to pay for your own TV licence.
Find out about Students and the TV licence.
Post and subscriptions
Before you move into the property, update your contact details on any online shopping platforms, with your bank and any other subscription services to avoid having mail sent to the wrong address. You can easily set up a mail redirect on your old address to make sure you do not miss any important letters.
Let the University know you’re moving
It is important that you update your personal details so the University can get in touch with you. You can easily update your address online via your e:Vision account.
Contact us
Working hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (excluding public holidays)
Student Hub