Even after starting Year 3, it seems like it was just yesterday when I dragged all my luggage into my room at the Woodward Buildings. Unfortunately for the majority of us, the end of Year 1 meant moving out of student halls and finding a new home elsewhere. It isn’t an easy process, since London is an expensive city and Imperial just so happens to be located in one of the poshest areas. Looking back at my flat-hunting experiences, I have compiled a list of tips (that would have made my life so much easier) to share with you!
Who and when?
You’ve made some good friends during your first year and want to live with them, but just make sure that your lifestyle habits, budget and expectations match up before you commit to anything to save yourself the trouble.
An important aspect to discuss with your potential flatmates is when you want to start the tenancy. In London, accommodation advertisements only come out 1-2 months before the move-in date. Finding a place too early may mean that you will have to pay rent earlier than your actual move-in date, though this can be discussed with the agency or owner. International students may want to delay returning home for the summer to finalise accommodation arrangements.
Student hall vs. private accommodation
Student halls are likely to give you less hassle since the utility bills and maintenance are all taken care of. However, they are not always the cheaper option, especially if you’re staying in a private one. There is the possibility to stay in an Imperial student hall beyond first year. These limited spaces are usually for those affected by extenuating circumstances, but are also reserved for Hall Seniors. To become a Hall Senior, simply apply to the hall you want when the application ads come out (see Beit Hall’s process as an example).
As for private flats and houses, there is an abundance of choices. You will likely have to pay for utility bills (WiFi, water, electricity, etc.) on top of your rent, so remember to take this into account in your budget. If you do not want to pay the hefty prices for a place in the Kensington and Chelsea area, you can always look for something further away. The London tube system is quite extensive, so even if you live in Acton Town (Zone 3), you can still get to Imperial within 30 minutes!
Where to look for accommodation
Imperial hosts some private housing events (usually in June) to provide information on different aspects of private accommodation. The college also offers Imperial Housing Solutions where you can begin your search for flats and houses, though the options are limited. Another option is Evelyn Gardens, a student residence with 250 rooms available for returning Imperial undergraduates.
Looking outside of Imperial, a simple Google search will give you a list of letting agencies. Don’t just stick to the big ones (e.g. Dexters, Foxtons, etc.), but also look through agencies that are more specialised in different areas, such as TLC for Earls Court, Kensington and Chelsea, Broadway and West for West London or Lawson Rutter in Hammersmith and Fulham.
There are even more things to look out for after you’ve found a place, though that will probably come in another blog post. If you’re ever worried about anything, check out the advice given here on Imperial’s website or simply go to the Student Hub and have a chat.
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