For second and third year students

Hello, my fellow second and third-year students! This blog is for anyone who is planning on moving out of the uni halls or just looking for a change. Of course, you can also choose to stay in the university’s accommodation throughout your studies at Coventry University but finding the right place to live in your second or third year is a big decision. You know, when you get the taste of living with other people, maybe you might decide you want to live alone, or you just wanna move out with some of your friends, Coventry has plenty of housing options, but it's a good idea to start your search with a plan to make sure you get a space that meets all your needs and, of course, your budget! Here are some practical tips to help you find your ideal spot in Coventry.

1. Start early 

Unlike first-year halls, you don’t need to rush to sign something in October.. not that, it’s just that Coventry has a mix of students and working professionals, so it’s good to start getting a feel for what’s available by early in the new year. This gives you plenty of time to view properties, consider your options, and make an informed decision.

Keep watch on Futurelets.co.uk they’re about to launch options soon!

2. Decide on your priorities

Before diving into viewings, make a list of what you want in a house or flat. Here are some things to consider:

Location: Do you want to be close to campus, or are you okay with a longer commute if it means a lower rent? (not gonna lie, if you’re not a morning person, and you get morning classes you might want to find one that’s close to campus because those classes are not gonna be attended on time)

Budget: It’s easy to overlook extra costs like utilities, Wi-Fi, and travel expenses, so be sure to factor these into your overall budget.

Amenities: Think about what you need, like an ensuite bathroom, study space, or proximity to shops and bus routes.

Living Arrangements: Are you planning to live with friends or go solo? This will also influence what kind of place suits you best.

3. House viewings – don’t skip!

Speaking from experience guysss. Even if you find a place that looks great online, always book a viewing. I almost booked myself blind into this flat once, and luckily my friend offered to go in my stead and said it was definitely not like in the pictures. It’s also a chance to check things like natural light, noise levels, and even how secure it feels. During the viewing, make sure to ask about utility costs and if they’re included. Check the furniture and whether it’s provided or needs to be bought. Inspect for dampness or any signs of damage; these can be more trouble than they seem at first glance. Gauge the area’s safety if you’ll be walking back late from campus or the city center.

4. Compare contracts

Each property or landlord might have different contract terms. Key things to look out for are:

Break clauses (in case things don’t work out).

The deposit return policy.

Any hidden fees, like cleaning or administration costs.

5. Connect with Coventry Accommodation services

Coventry’s accommodation offices, including FutureLets, offer a lot of resources for students moving out of halls. I think as a student though, getting help with understanding your contract is the most important bit, which luckily FutureLets will help you with. All information on properties should be available on the website!

Quick Tip: The fastest way (in my opinion) would just be to call! Last time I called FutureLets and let them know what kind of flat I was looking for, price range, amount of people, etc., and they made the looking for a flat process so much smoother. They look it up immediately and let you know if they have any properties that match your description.

6. Think about transportation 

Living further from campus can be more affordable, but think about how you’ll get to lectures and whether the savings balance out any additional travel costs - would it be worth it? Coventry has a decent public transport network, and cycling around the city is popular among students.

7. Know your rights as a tenant

As a student, you have the same rights as any tenant. Make sure you understand what’s fair and required from both you and your landlord. Coventry’s student housing team can provide guidance here, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re unsure about anything.

8. Don’t forget your bills...

For most student houses, you’ll be in charge of paying the utility bills. If you're going to split bills, make sure you’re clear with your housemates on how it’ll work from the start. Many students find splitting apps helpful to avoid any awkward conversations later on.

9. Finally, take your time

If you’re ever unsure about a property or feel pressured to sign, take a step back. A bit of patience will often help you find something better suited to you. There’s a place out there that’s the right fit! Or maybe you’ll decide to just stay in the student accommodations, you never know... (wouldn’t you want to stay with us, to have ResLife events? *winkwink*)