We’ve put together a list of the best questions to ask when viewing student accommodation. Host Student Accommodation

What a student should ask during a show flat viewing

When you’re viewing a property for university, we understand the importance of asking questions and getting the feel of the space.

You might feel pressure to secure student accommodation, but it pays off to be thorough when viewing show flats.

We’ve put together a list of the best questions to ask when viewing student accommodation.


What is availability like?

One of the most important questions to ask on the day of your viewing is about the availability. If the availability is low, you know you will have to move fast to secure your accommodation, especially in highly desirable locations. But don’t let this put pressure on you to sign a contract.  The accommodation has to feel right for you, remember there are always other options if the first viewing isn’t the right fit for you.

Does the student flat come furnished?

We’ve put together a list of the best questions to ask when viewing student accommodation. Host Student Accommodation

Many show flats that you view will be dressed to give you an idea of the space and what you can fit in it. Remember to ask what comes with the room as basic. You don’t want to turn up on your moving in day to find out your space doesn’t come with a mattress. If you are looking at an en-suite bedroom in a shared flat, ask about what comes in the kitchen such as kettles, toasters, microwaves. If you are interested in a studio apartment, most companies will equip the kitchenettes with the basics such as microwaves, mop & bucket.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

As a student living on a maintenance loan, you may find it hard to find a large deposit to secure your next year’s accommodation. During your viewing you should ask about deposits, how much they are and how they work.

Are bills included?

Understand whether your rent includes any utility bills such as water and electricity. You may also want to ask about Wi-Fi and broadband. Remember that as a student you are exempt from council tax so you should never pay this.

What is the contract length?

We’ve put together a list of the best questions to ask when viewing student accommodation. Host Student Accommodation

You may find that properties will offer different contract lengths and this may impact the weekly price depending how long or short you opt for. The longer your contract length the cheaper the weekly price will tend to be.

What is security like?

Before signing a contract, learn about the security coverage on site. Is there CCTV, 24/7 on-site security?

What happens if there is a maintenance problem?

None of us are strangers to the odd broken bulb or creaky door. This is why it is important to find out what on-site maintenance is like at the property you are viewing. Ask what

Do I need student contents insurance?

When moving in to a property it is essential to ensure your belongings are insured incase of the worst case scenario. Ask whether you will need to insure your own contents or whether it comes with the room/studio.

Are there outside spaces?

We’ve put together a list of the best questions to ask when viewing student accommodation. Host Student Accommodation

The winters can be long, dark and cold but when spring arrives it is nice to have a place to enjoy fresh air and the sunshine if not only for your mental health and well-being. Ask about any outside courtyards or garden areas that you can have access to,

Remember there is no such thing as a bad question. All of our property managers are on hand to answer your questions no matter how silly they may seem.


Host offers welcoming, secure and affordable student accommodation in 19 cities throughout the UK. Our student properties have been carefully designed to be stylish, comfy, sociable and provide everything you need as an international student.

Our award winning student accommodation properties are located close to universities and college campuses. Allowing you to fully experience student life in your chosen city.

At Host:

  • All En-suite bedrooms and Studios come furnished.
  • When you book, just pay the £200 initial rent payment on booking and your room is confirmed; this is not a deposit – it is a payment made on booking with forms part of your total rental amount.
  • All bills are included in your rent, meaning you’ll avoid the nightmare of splitting bills and the energy cost rises.
  • Contract lengths range from 51 to 39 weeks.
  • Our sites have on-site security, secure access points and CCTV coverage.
  • We take pride in taking care of any little problem and providing that friendly welcoming face every time you come home. All Host sites have on-site maintenance teams.
  • Contents Insurance comes as standard.
  • We provide spaces to relax, study and work out.

Looking to sort out next year’s student accommodation? We have 33 properties across 20 cities in the UK. Book your viewing at one of our sites today.


Studying at University of Essex or ARU next year?

We’ve put together a list of the best questions to ask when viewing student accommodation. Host Student Accommodation

Want to start the next academic year with some extra cash in your back pocket? When you book for September you’ll receive £500 cashback*.

Make it happen with Host in Colchester! – 27 Magdalen Street is right in the heart of the city of Colchester, close to everything you need for student life.

Onsite you’ll find a welcoming communal lounge, games area, study spaces and outdoor courtyard and you can choose from a range of fully furnished en-suite rooms in flats sizes from 4 to 6 bedrooms, with shared kitchens and living areas from £139 per week. Contracts starting at 39 weeks. And as ever with Host all your bills are included.

Book your viewing at our open day Friday 1st March 2024


*T&C's apply - See website for full details.

#HostEnvironmentalPledge.
Getting serious about the environment we live in.

To become more ‘environmentally friendly’, Host is launching the #HostEnvironmentalPledge campaign to encourage responsible behaviour and drive sustainability across our sites throughout the UK and Ireland.

It’s a simple campaign! For every percent we reduce our overall utilities (electric, water and gas) consumption by we donate to one of our nominated charities.

Show me all news

Latest news

News flash! Host sustainable living guide

Host is dedicated to making a positive social and environmental impact, a commitment that is deeply rooted in our comprehensive Sustainability Strategy, which outlines our approach to creating lasting, meaningful change. We invite you to explore our Sustainable Living Guide to learn more about how we are working toward a better future for all.

sustainable living

News flash! Where should I live in my second year of uni?

With your first year of university well underway, it won’t be long before you’re no longer a fresher. And whilst it might still be months away, your second year of uni will be here before you know it. So, have you started thinking about where you’re going to live for your second year? If not, now is the perfect time to start searching and weighing up your options. First year's aim to have their second year accommodation sorted before Term 2 (January). Below are some things to consider when choosing your second-year accommodation.

Semester accommodation benefits
Host - Student and undergound
Staying safe in the dark student tips