Before You Book a Student Accommodation Viewing: Read This.

Finding the right student accommodation can make or break your university experience. Whether moving away from home for the first time or upgrading your current space, knowing what to look for during a viewing is essential to making sure you find the right place for you. To help you feel confident and prepared, we’ve put together this list on what to check, what to ask, and how to get the best value when viewing student accommodation in Bristol, or anywhere in the UK. Get your pen and paper…

 

 

1. Choose Your Location

One of the biggest priorities for students is convenience. During your viewing, it’s always good to consider:

• What’s the distance to campus? Is it walking distance, or will you need transport? 
• Do you have good access to public transport? Bus routes, cycle paths etc.
• What are the local amenities? Supermarkets, gyms, libraries, cafés, takeaways, and green spaces.
• How safe is the neighbourhood? Look for well-lit streets, security cameras, and busy student-friendly areas.

 

2. Check the Condition of the Property

Don’t be shy – take a good look around. Focus on:

• Damp or mould around windows, ceilings, or corners. This can be well hidden, so look out for physical signs like discoloured or damp patches, peeling wallpaper, black spots, musty smells, high condensation, cold or wet walls and rotting wood, especially around skirting boards. Take photos if you are ever unsure.
• Ventilation in bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. Check ventilation by ensuring windows, vents, and exhaust fans allow fresh air to flow freely, while looking for dampness, mold, or musty odors that indicate poor airflow.
• Heating systems and whether they are efficient. Check the heating system by turning it on (if possible) to ensure it warms the space evenly, and ask about its type, age, and energy efficiency ratings.
• Windows and insulation. Check windows and insulation by looking for double-glazing, well-sealed frames, and properly insulated walls or lofts to ensure the home retains heat and keeps energy bills low.
• Furniture quality – mattresses, desks, chairs, and storage. Assess furniture quality by inspecting mattresses, desks, chairs, and storage for sturdiness, comfort, and durability.

This helps you assess the true value of the accommodation and avoid hidden stresses later.

 

 

3. Understand Bills and Costs

Budgeting as a student is essential. Ask:

• Are bills included? (Gas, electric, water, WiFi, council tax exemptions for students)
• Is broadband fast and reliable?
• Any deposits, guarantor requirements, or admin fees?
• What is the tenancy length? (Academic year, 48-week, 51-week)

Make sure the price reflects everything you’re getting.

 

 

4. Ask About Security

Your safety is a top priority. During a viewing, check for:

• Secure entry systems (key fobs, intercoms, coded doors)
• CCTV in communal areas
• Fire alarms, extinguishers, and fire doors
• 24/7 onsite or on-call support

 

5. Check the Kitchen & Living Spaces

Look for:

• Clean, modern appliances
• Enough fridge/freezer space for everyone
• Good cupboard space and storage
• Comfortable seating in shared areas
• Laundry facilities (onsite or nearby)

Make sure it’s a place where you can relax and enjoy student life.

 

 

6. Talk to Current Tenants (If Possible)

If current students are living there, they’re your best source of honesty and the closest you’ll get to knowing what living there is really like. If you do get the chance to speak to any of them, here are some good questions to ask:

• “How responsive is the landlord or accommodation team?”
• “Are there any issues with noise?”
• “Is the building warm in winter?”
• “What’s the atmosphere like?”

 

 

7. Review the Contract Before You Commit

Before signing anything:

• Read the tenancy agreement carefully
• Understand your notice periods
• Check who is responsible for repairs/ maintenance
• Confirm move-in dates
• Ask about flexibility if your circumstances change

Never feel rushed – good providers will always give you time to decide what’s right for you.

 

 

8. Take Photos and Notes

Once you’ve viewed a few properties, they’ll start to blur together. Taking photos and jotting down notes will help you compare between them all:

• Room size
• Amenities
• Cleanliness
• Value for money
• Overall vibe

This makes it easier to shortlist your favourite apartments.

 

 

9. Trust Your Gut

If a place feels right—safe, welcoming, good value, and well-run—it probably is.

 

 

Final Tips

• Come prepared, on time and with a checklist
• Bring a friend, parent, or housemate for a second opinion
• Ask plenty of questions
• View multiple properties before choosing
• Book viewings early – popular rooms go fast!

 

We’re always happy to answer any more questions you may have – feel free to get in touch with us or visit us at our Park Street office.

 

 

View our Bristol properties here.

 

 

 

Published: 24.11.25 by Phoebe Clutton