Looking for accommodation is not always easy. This list of website should help you in your searches. And don’t forget to ask questions when you visit.
In this article:
London is a bit of a jungle when it comes to accommodation, if you hear about something you like, drop everything you are doing and go see it / meet the agency / landlord as soon as you can. When you don’t react straight away the spot will be gone quickly and you will miss your chance.
Find a room in a flat share or houseshare in London
Find a flat in London
Less famous platforms but still worth checking:
- https://www.movebubble.com
- https://www.onthemarket.com/to-rent/flats-apartments/london/
- https://www.rentlondonflat.com/
Do you have some other website worth listing? Please share in a comment.
Questions to ask
- What’s included? Is the property furnished or not? Photos can be a misrepresentation.
- What are the tenancy fees? What fees will I pay to move into the property, and how much will they cost? If necessary, ask if that includes admin, credit reference check and check-in fees. Do the fees quoted include VAT? Letting agents will often quote fees without adding 20% Value Added Tax. Will I pay any fees to move out of the property?
- Who is responsible for what? Common areas, garden etc.
- How much is the council tax? Ask for the band, properties rated A or B could make you considerable savings throughout the year than one rated D or E.
- How energy efficient is the property? Ask for an average price regarding each bill. You don’t want to end up with a crazy electricity bill in winter or some other bad surprise.
- What’s the TV & internet like? You don’t want
- Who lives next door? If you have working professional or student you might not have the same vibe.
- What’s it like at night? Is it a safe neighbourhood with easy transport links?
- How long is the contract/rental term? 12 months, 6 months, when can you move at the earliest if you are not happy there?
- How much is the deposit and is there a holding deposit? The deposit should be held with a private protection scheme.
- What’s the policy on pets and redecoration?
- Who is the landlord? In case you meet an agency or a flatmate.
- What happens in an emergency? Agent, landlord?
- How quickly someone will come fix if there is a problem and who does it? It’s important to know the agency is responsive quickly in case if something breaks.
- Is there anything else I need to know?