Durham in England, United Kingdom is a famous student city. It is also popularly known as the City of Medicine. This is since it is home to a major healthcare industry. It has 300+ health related companies. Students from all over the world choose Durham city, thanks to its excellent educational reputation. It is home to Durham University, which is one of the top ten universities in the United Kingdom.
Many international students choose the city of Durham for their studies. Because of this, the need for student accommodation in Durham has increased rapidly. Every student going abroad must look out for some things when choosing student accommodation. In this article, some of these key checks for finding the right student accommodation in Durham are given. Let’s have a look:
Research Accommodation Type
There are several types of stay options available in Durham for students. They can choose their student accommodation Durham as per their lifestyle preferences. Some students like sharing accommodation with their roommates, while some prefer living alone. Therefore, it is essential to first understand the types of accommodation and choose one. Some types of off-campus student housing types include Suites, Ensuites, Studio Rooms & Shared Apartments. Read about them all then choose the one that suits you best.
Check Property Details
Student Housing in Durham comes with several benefits. These include various types of amenities and utilities. Students must check what the property is offering them in the rent. Are the amenities included in the rent? Does the property have Wi-Fi? What utilities are provided by the property? Students should always enquire about such details about the property when they are shortlisting their accommodation. Amenities such as gym & laundry can be very helpful for international students, especially if they are included in the rent.
Check Location
Since students spend most of their time at the university, it is best to rent accommodation near it. When checking the location of the property, students should consider several factors. These include the area in which the property is, its distance from the university, and nearby facilities. Living in a common student area is beneficial for students. A property with nearby bars, restaurants, activities & more is better for students. So, always check the area where the property is before finalizing it. Is the location safe for students or not and how much time will it take to reach it from public transport.
Safety & Security Provisions
The topmost priority for international students is safety. Before you finalize accommodation, check the security provisions. Many properties have several security & safety provisions for students. These include CCTVs, Secure-Door Entry, and more. Always choose the property which has them all. Moreover, students should also research the location of the property. Is the area in which it’s located safe? What is the crime rate of the area? Is the area student friendly? Are healthcare and police stations near the accommodation? Living alone is a huge step that students take, so always ensure your safety and security of the property.
Read Contract
Many students make the mistake of signing a contract without reading it. This can lead to many problems with accommodation. Always read the accommodation contract before you sign it. Check the details about your stay mentioned in the contract. What is the duration mentioned in the contract? Are you sharing your room with anyone? Which room is allotted to you? What are the rules and instructions? What are the amenities provided? Check these details mentioned in the contract, and then only sign it. In case of any discrepancy, talk to the landlord or the provider. This way, students can save themselves from heavy scams and fraud.
Transportation: Sometimes students choose accommodation that is a few miles away from their university. When choosing accommodation that is far, look for transport options in the area. Is there public transport available near your accommodation? How much time will it take to reach your university? What different transport options are available? How far is the bus stop from your accommodation? Does the route followed include your destination? What routes does the bus follow? Make sure you have answers to such questions about transportation in Durham. This will make your journey easier and planned out.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal student accommodation is a hectic process. But it is equally essential. With the tips given above, students can easily find their accommodation. Ensure you follow all these tips and get a property of your choice. Your home away from home is just around the corner, book now!
Also Read: https://fastpanda.in/2024/09/25/cost-of-living-in-oxford-uk-for-international-students/
