Accommodation

Where should I live?

This reference chart compares the basic facilities and costs that can usually be expected in different types of accommodation.

Accommodation Comparator	Halls	Private	Lodgings
Rent and bills
Will I only have to pay rent for the 37 wks of the academic year?	Yes	May be up to 12 months	May be up to 12 months
Will I have to pay a damage deposit?	No	Yes	Possibly
Am I legally tied to the contract for the duration of its period?	Yes	Yes	Check
Do I need to budget for utility charges for electricity/gas/water?	No	Yes	Check
Is there a telephone line rental charge	No	Check	Check
Is there free broadband?	Yes	Not usually	Check
Will I have to pay extra for internet access?	No	Yes	Check
Is there a basic contents insurance cover?	Yes	No	Check

Facilities
Are the bedrooms fully furnished?	Yes	Check	Check
Are the kitchens equipped with cooker, fridge freezer and microwave?	Yes	Check	Check
Are there rooms with a private en-suite?	Yes	Check	Check
Will I have central heating?	Yes	Check	Check
Will there be a modern automatic fire and carbon monoxide detection system?	Yes	Check	Check
Is there a personal phone line to each room?	Yes	Not usually	Not usually
Is there free voice mail that can be retrieved anywhere at University?	Yes	No	No
Do I have use of reception facilities?	Yes	No	No
Is professional assistance available for special needs?	Yes	Check	Check
Are maintenance services on-site?	Yes	Not likely	Not likely