6 things to do when moving in

Moving in to your own home is an exciting time, but there are many things for you to think about. Here are our top tips to help you get started and settle in. 

Get to know your neighbour

Many areas close to the University have a high proportion of students living within them, but there are no areas that could be considered ‘student only’. Your neighbours could be students, young professionals, elderly people or a family. Call around to your neighbours and introduce yourself. You’ll be living next to each other for a year so you might as well say hello!

Make sure you've been provided with an inventory

At the start of your tenancy your landlord should provide you with an inventory detailing what is in your house and its condition. Take photos of every room to show its condition, especially anything that is not in a good, clean condition. You’ll need it at the end of year to get your full deposit back.

Know your bin day

Waste and recycling services in Leeds are likely to be different from what you are used to. Your black bin collection is weekly and green recycling bin collections could be monthly or fortnightly. You can check your bin days here or download the Leeds Bins App (IOS version) (Android version) (Windows version)

Make a cleaning rota

The best way to avoid conflict over cleaning duties and make sure your shared house stays clean and tidy is by having a cleaning schedule. Draft up a rota and stick it up somewhere for everyone to see.  Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done in communal areas, including who’s taking out the trash. Remember that people have people have different cleaning standards so speak with your housemates calmly if any issues arise. 

Be there for each other

Everyone gets stressed, anxious or depressed at times. The great thing about housemates is that there’s always support close at hand. Chances are that others are going through the same thing.