Cost Of Living

Destination: UK

Rental Accommodation

Searching for suitable rental accommodation in the UK can be a time-consuming process. Depending on where you want to live it can also be expensive but, once you have started work, your earnings should match the cost of living. Temporary accommodation options available are discussed in the Before You Leave Home home section; short-term lets from www.gumtree.com and hostels are probably the best options to explore.

London is the most expensive place to rent (where you can expect to pay anything from £50-£800 a month for a room) but there is a huge variation in the cost of living across the UK.

Most landlords require a month’s rent in advance plus a deposit/bond of up to 6 weeks rent and may ask for a reference from previous landlords or employers. Additional charges you need to be aware of include Council Tax; water, gas and electricity bills and TV license.

When looking for a room or property to rent, consider the following:

• If the room/property is fully, part or not furnished.

• Which bills are included in the cost of the rent.

• What the landlord’s expectations are at the end of the tenancy.

• Where the bond will be held for safe-keeping.

Where to find accommodation

www.gumtree.com and www.findaproperty.co.uk are both useful good websites to search for rooms and properties to rent (or buy). The Loot’s property section, published twice a week and available from most newsagents, is another good source.

Other associated costs to keep in mind