What Are the Key Issues in Renting Student Accommodation in Sheffield?
Renting Student Accommodation in Sheffield
Student accommodation has long been seen as a key part of university life and many young people will spend the majority of their adult lives in this type of housing. But some landlords aren’t doing enough to make the homes they rent fit for purpose – and students could be paying through the nose for accommodation that isn’t suitable for their needs or safe to live in.
A recent poll by a job-seeking app showed that 87% of Sheffield’s private rental properties are “unfit for habitation,” while a study published in 2018 suggested there is sufficient evidence to link poor quality living with asthma, respiratory problems and depression. With this in mind, what are the key issues to consider when renting Sheffield student accommodation?
It’s important to think carefully about the person you will be sharing a room with. Although it can be tempting to share a flat with your best friends or other first-years, you may not get on with them, or find it difficult to concentrate in a shared space. It’s also important to read the small print of your tenancy agreement and remember that it is a legally binding contract. It’s unlikely that you will be able to give notice during the period of your tenancy (unless there is a break clause in your agreement) and, if you do leave early, you will remain liable for the outstanding rent.
What Are the Key Issues in Renting Student Accommodation in Sheffield?
When it comes to Sheffield student accommodation, there are several options to choose from. Purpose-built student accommodation – which is designed and built specifically for students – is usually the most expensive but offers students the best security, facilities and privacy. It is typically a secure, onsite building with high-speed Wi-Fi, laundry service, 24/7 security, study spaces and communal areas. Ensuite rooms are usually priced around PS130 – PS210/week, while non-en suites offer a single multi-purpose space and tend to be priced between PS60 – PS150/week.
Lastly, it is worth mentioning the potential for personal growth and development that student accommodation offers. Living away from home and being responsible for one’s own daily tasks and decisions contribute to the development of independence and self-reliance. Students learn essential life skills such as time management, budgeting, and conflict resolution while sharing living spaces with roommates. They gain a broader perspective and develop cultural competency through interactions with peers from diverse backgrounds. These experiences foster personal growth and contribute to the holistic development of students during their university years.
If you want to save money, there is a good range of privately owned student houses in the city centre and in the surrounding suburbs. Some are within walking distance of the city’s universities and offer a range of amenities such as free contents insurance, free parcel collection and flexible payment terms. However, you should always be vigilant to avoid being scammed by rogue landlords and never pay upfront fees for accommodation that you haven’t visited.
For students looking for a lively nightlife scene, the best place to be is in the city centre. There are a number of bars and pubs to choose from in the area, including upmarket spots like The Florentine and Canton Orchards, or you can head over to West Street Live for a full-on club experience. Afterwards, you can enjoy some shopping at the huge Meadowhall or browse the many vintage shops in the area. You can even catch a movie at the state-of-the-art Light Cinema, which has a selection of films every day.