Top Ten StudentHousehold Tips
Molly is at Leeds Uni and currently working with us on her placement year. She has kindly pulled together her top 10 bits of advice for any students moving into a shared student household
Hey I’m Molly, a final year undergraduate at the University of Leeds, and here’s my top tips based on what I learned from my first year of setting up bills.
1. Pay your bills on time: The longer you leave it, the harder it is to get the money off your housemates, and if you do fall into arrears, it can impact your credit history in the future.
2. Remember your passwords: All suppliers will require a password for authentication purposes and logging into your account. If you lose or forget them, it can be a massive hassle.
3. Standing orders: It’s likely that one of your housemates will be the main bill holder some of your household services (will be responsible for paying the bill), so as soon as you move in, get everyone to agree what they owe each month, and set up a standing order so the money is transferred on time without having to be chased. It takes a few minutes but will save a load of time, effort, and probably a few arguments!
4. Respect the house: Living in a household with other students can quickly turn from heaven to hell, all because someone hasn’t washed up very well, or eaten someone else’s coco pops…enough said?!?!
5. Meter Readings: At some point the water or electricity company will want to know your meter reading, it’s just routine, but my advice would be to take a quick pic of it as well in case you need to challenge anything in the future (especially on your first day moving in!)
6. Security: Look out for each other, especially on night outs, and make sure you are keeping the house locked up correctly at night. And if you are having a friend staying over…..make sure your other housemates are aware and all ok with it beforehand!
7. Rotas: I would get these in place from day one, especially weekly ones like taking turns on emptying bins, cleaning, shopping etc. This can really help avoid frustration between you and your housemates.
8. Pick your battles: Only address the really important issues that arise or your voice will soon disappear. Good communication, both ways, can help nip most issues in the bud.
9. Have fun: It’s too easy getting stuck into your work every night in your room, so make sure you are communal and spend time with your housemates. Movie night? Come dine with me? Quiz night at your local?
10. There is help out there: Living away from home isn’t easy, especially if you are living miles from where you live. Keep in touch with old friends and family, and if you are feeling a bit down, or need some advice or help about any challenge you are facing, be it mental health, your studies, money or relationships, get in touch with one of the many support groups out there. Student Minds (www.studentminds.org.uk)
Need any more help? Give us a call or drop us a line and we will get back to you ASAP