Student Living How To Guide
Welcome to your Student Living How To Guide.
This page is your official onboarding resource for living in your student house safely and responsibly.
Unlike university halls, private student accommodation requires tenants to take responsibility for day-to-day maintenance tasks. This includes basic household care, safety checks, and understanding how your home systems work.
Before moving in, you are expected to watch the relevant videos below and confirm that you understand how to maintain your property safely.
This ensures:
- A safe living environment
- Reduced maintenance issues
- Faster repairs when needed
- Clear responsibilities for tenants
Think of this as your student living manual.
Before You Move In (Mandatory Viewing)
Before your tenancy begins, you should familiarise yourself with the basics of your property systems.
This includes heating, electrics, appliances, and safety systems.
Understanding these early prevents most common maintenance issues students experience.
Check the Contracts guide.
View video: https://youtube.com/shorts/Asb_H5UARaU?si=0cUls8ixQbcC8Rwk
What this covers:
- Boiler pressure basics
- How to safely top up system pressure
- When to contact landlord
View video: https://youtu.be/USvLN6EDLk4?si=TDmGT7IR4IoqYc0X
What this covers:
- Safe bulb replacement
- GU10 fitting type
- Avoiding electrical damage
Kitchen & Appliances
View video: https://youtu.be/JOEODVb4a8o?si=Ahdo2uFcy0ZNyKaI
View video: https://youtu.be/4c_LBVnU4ec?si=NM5sXwAHjK-SQ9cI
Fridge leaks are one of the most common student maintenance issues. In most cases, the problem is caused by blocked drainage holes rather than a fault.
Regular cleaning prevents water build-up and odours inside the appliance.
Bathroom Maintenance
View video: https://youtu.be/3MOsNVkGhKo?si=Xlbrc3-QH87jyr-L
View video: https://youtu.be/p_4qgWLiMxs?si=AVGr2ytA41YNW9yH
View video: https://youtu.be/J_V88NnwYFU?si=n7L_0vqjdFRIYltP
Shower blockages are usually caused by hair and soap build-up. Regular cleaning of the trap prevents slow drainage and flooding.
This is a tenant responsibility in all UK private rentals.
Electrical Systems
View video: https://youtube.com/shorts/meGm171X2SQ?is=X2t9bw4MRQyArevV
Electrical issues are often simple to resolve, but must always be handled safely.
If you are unsure, stop immediately and contact your landlord or maintenance team.
Ventilation & House Care
View video: https://www.englishblinds.co.uk/blog/ask-an-expert/should-venetian-blinds-be-closed-up-or-down/
Correct use of blinds can help regulate temperature and reduce energy usage in student houses.
This is particularly important during colder Newcastle months.
Gas, Safety & Emergencies
All students must know where the gas shut-off point is located.
In case of suspected gas smell:
- Turn off supply immediately
- Open windows
- Contact emergency services
Safety always comes first.
Tenant Responsibilities
Living in private student accommodation is not the same as university halls.
Tenants are legally responsible for:
- Basic cleaning and hygiene
- Reporting maintenance issues promptly
- Preventing avoidable damage
- Using appliances correctly
- Keeping the property safe and ventilated
Failure to follow basic maintenance responsibilities can result in charges or deposit deductions.
Check the Deposit Guide.
Mandatory Confirmation
Before moving in, all tenants are required to confirm that they have read and understood the How To Guide.
This ensures that everyone is aware of their responsibilities and understands how to maintain the property safely.
Check the Cost Guide.
Jesmond Student Living
Our student houses in Jesmond are designed for long-term student living, offering well-maintained homes close to Newcastle University.
Understanding how to maintain your property helps ensure a better living experience for all tenants throughout the academic year.