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Top Tips for Students Moving into Your New House Next Month

2025-06-11

So, you’ve signed the contract, packed your duvets, and made a trip to Ikea. Now it’s time to actually move in. Whether you’re a 2nd year student swapping halls for a Hyde Park house or a seasoned student moving for your final year, we know that moving day can be exciting, nerve-wracking and, let’s face it, a bit chaotic.

But don’t stress - rentinc has your back. We’ve put together our top tips to help you hit the ground running (and avoid the classic rookie mistakes) as you settle into your new student home in Leeds.

Get Familiar With Your New Home

Moving day is a blur of boxes, Deliveroo and “where did I put my phone charger?” Take 30 minutes to walk around your house and check it properly, even if you’re itching to set up your LED lights!

You’ll be given an inventory and schedule of condition when you collect your keys. This document lists all the furniture and fittings in your property. Please ensure you check it carefully and send it back to us within 14 days. Note anything that's missing or damaged, and snap a few photos just to be safe. It’s a boring job, but future-you will thank you when it is deposit return time.

Cleaning? It's a Team Sport

Let’s be totally honest, student houses aren’t known for their sparkling kitchens. We’ll always aim to have your property given to you in the best condition it can be, but if something’s not quite right, let us know straight away. Email us with photos at info@rentinc.co.uk (subject: "Cleaning/Maintenance Report") and we’ll work with Hive Property Services to get it sorted.

Pro tip: Set up a cleaning rota with your housemates early. Nobody likes passive-aggressive sticky notes on the fridge.

Sort Your Essentials First

Depending on your tenancy type, some bills might be included, especially if you have opted to go all-inclusive with rentinc. If you haven’t, now’s the time to take meter readings and set up accounts for gas, electricity, water and WiFi. Use handy tools like Find My Supplier or Northern Powergrid to get started.

Don’t forget:

• You still need a TV licence if you’re watching live TV.
  
  

• Full-time students don’t pay council tax, but you must tell Leeds City Council who lives in your house. This is your responsibility - please ensure that you do this straight away.
  
  

Safety First, Always

It’s your new home, and we want you to feel safe from day one. We suggest you conduct a few safety checks on your first day:

• Learn your fire escape route and ensure you never block exits (bikes in hallways are a no-go).
  
  

• Never prop open fire doors or tamper with smoke alarms.They really are a life saver.
  
  

• Make sure windows and doors are locked when you’re out (even just for a corner shop run).
  
  

24/7 Maintenance Support

As a tenant at rentinc, you have got the reassurance of having Hive Property Services on hand for maintenance issues. Just hit the "Maintenance Request" button on our website or call 0113 224 4610 in an emergency. Please note out of hours charges do apply so ensure this is an actual emergency.

Know What’s Yours to Sort

Not everything needs a call to Hive. You’re responsible for simple tasks like:

• Changing light bulbs
  
  

• Unblocking drains
  
  

• Keeping the house tidy and mould-free
  
  

Need help? Our welcome pack (sent to your email and online portal) breaks it all down. You’ll avoid unnecessary call-out charges and keep your house feeling like home.

Take Care of Your Headspace

New house, new flatmates, new routines – it’s a lot. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious or just a bit “meh,” that’s totally normal. We’ve listed loads of mental health resources in your welcome pack, including support services from:

• University of Leeds
  
  

• Leeds Beckett University
  
  

• Leeds Trinity
  
  

• Leeds Arts University
  
  

You can also call Samaritans (116 123) or text Nightline (0113 380 1381) for someone to talk to.

Remember, your wellbeing matters as much as your WiFi speed.

Bin Days & Blue Tac

Yes, we’re going there. These little things can cause big fallouts and cost you at the end of your tenancy.

• Check your bin day on the Leeds Council website.
  
  

• Don’t stick anything to your walls with blue tac – it causes stains and you’ll be charged for repainting.
  
  

• Keep the communal areas clean and chat with your housemates about what goes where.
  
  

Be a Good Neighbour

Leeds has an amazing student community so please let’s keep it that way. Respect your neighbours, keep noise down (especially after 11pm), and bin the idea of house parties mid-week. If you’re reported for antisocial behaviour, it can lead to fines or worse.

You’re part of the neighbourhood now – make it proud.

Save Our Contact Info

Add these to your phone right now (seriously, do it):

• Rentinc Office: 0113 220 0040
  
  

• Email: info@rentinc.co.uk
  
  

• Hive Maintenance: 0113 224 4610
  
  

• Website: www.rentinc.co.uk
  
  

Also follow us on Instagram (@rentinc_uk) and Facebook for updates, competitions, and Leeds inspo. We’re your go-to for all things renting and student life.

Final Checklist for Moving Day

• Test your keys and locks
  
  

• Locate your trip box and stop tap
  
  

• Find your bins and check collection days
  
  

• Take meter readings (if relevant)
  
  

• Check the internet is working
  
  

• Read your inventory and return it
  
  

• Notify your uni/council if you’re a full-time student
  
  

• Save emergency contacts
  
  

• Let your parents know you’re alive and well (!)
  
  

You’ve Got This

Moving into a new student house is a big milestone and rentinc is here to make sure it’s a good one. Whether you need a maintenance fix, contract advice or just the name of a good takeaway in Headingley, we’re just a call (or DM) away.

Now, go unpack those boxes, claim the best cupboard, and enjoy your new Leeds life. You’re officially home.