Finding accommodation for college can be tricky at the best of times. Your Students' Union may not have all the answers, but we will endeavour to assist you with any questions and help you get sorted as much as possible. We hope this information is helpful for you when sourcing accommodation or with any issues that arise during the academic year.
If you need further information or assistance, you can contact advice@tudublinsu.ie.
Where Do I Start?
Determine:
- What type of property do I need? House? Digs? Apartment?
- Will I need accommodation for the full year or semester or just the days I am on campus?
- What is my budget? Weekly? Monthly?
- What areas suit my needs? Transportation? Location? Shops?
Types of Accommodation:
- Digs: rooms in host family homes available either on a 5 or 7 day basis; some include meals - try to get the one that best suits you.
- Private rented accommodation: residential lettings, either the full property or a room within the property, available 7 days a week with a lease anywhere from 3 to 12 months.
- Student accommodation: Purpose built student accommodation blocks, usually a private or twin room with ensuite, and shared kitchen and living space with up to 12 other students - available 7 days a week during term time.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Bills aren’t always included in the monthly rent, be sure to ask.
- Hand over the deposit when you sign the lease or after – NEVER BEFORE!
- Ensure you have a copy of the lease and receipt of the deposit.
- If you are sharing with the landlord, normal rights don’t apply- always draw up a letter of agreement regarding rent and bills with the landlord and be sure you both sign it.
- If it’s shared accommodation, find out how many people and who you will be sharing with. This can prevent issues from arising after you move in.
Viewing Your Accommodation:
You may be invited to a virtual viewing preliminarily. This is ok but wait to sign anything or hand over money until you have inspected the property in person.
- Always meet the landlord at the property when doing an in-person viewing.
- Bring a checklist and stay focused.
- Ask what's included. Are bills extra?
- Bring a friend/family member along to get a second opinion.
- Inspect the place for mould/damp.
- Ask as many questions as you can.
- A bank transfer is preferable. Most reputable agencies/landlords will prefer this to cash.
- If someone is insisting on cash - alarm bells.
- NEVER pay money to view a property or for any other reason than deposit/rent.
- Do not hand over money without a receipt.
- Don't feel pressure to decide straight away.
Useful Topics
More Helpful Information
- The Good Landlord Tenant Guide can be found here.
- Minimum Standards flier can be found here.
- Benefits of mediation leaflet here.
- Government Guidance Document on the new rent arrears legislation can be found here.