A Girl’s Guide to Keeping Hold of your Student House Deposit

If you are starting University in September, the first thing you may be thinking about is turning your new student home into a chic abode. Being a student, you will be used to paying out regularly for University fees, books and rent. However, there are always those pesky payments that take you by surprise. The deposit for your student accommodation is just one of these types of payments but many people hand it over safe in the knowledge that they will get it back when they vacate the property. Everyone has to pay a deposit when renting a property and while you may respect your home, you cannot speak for the rest of your housemates. So what are the most common ways to lose your house deposit?

Not Checking the House Inventory

When you move in to a student property, the chances you will be able to think of a hundred more exciting things to do that check an inventory. Unpacking your bags and settling in can seem like a priority but failing to check your home thoroughly to ensure that it includes everything it should could leave you with a hefty bill when you move out. Move from room to room and check-off each item from your inventory and also make a note of any marks, stains or broken furniture and take photos so you can prove to your landlord that these things were present or not when you moved in.

Faking your Tan

Over the winter months, fake tan might be your skin saviour but it can have fatal effects on your student furniture. Being careless when applying your fake tan could be the reason why you lose your student house deposit. According to one Cardiff landlord, more and more beds are being ruined by fake tan that is transferring onto mattresses making them unusable for future tenants. If you really can’t give up your favourite tanning products, be extra careful when applying it and if it’s a wash-off tan, it is advisable to shower before bed.

Getty Messy with Makeup

Applying makeup day and night can get messy especially if you are in a rush to go out. Eye liners, foundation and blushers can leave permanent stains on your carpets and this can lead to a chunk of your student house deposit being taken. The best way to avoid these costly spills is to apply your makeup in the bathroom where makeup can be easily wiped away. Don’t forget to wash your hands after applying foundation as this can easily be transferred to other areas of the house including your white walls and banisters.

So there you have it, three ways to keep hold of your student house deposit.