WITH thousands of young people from this region starting at university or on new career paths, fresh guidance has been issued for students to help them avoid the most common pitfalls when choosing rental accommodation.

It comes as new data from the Office for National Statistics shows the UK has seen a 6.4 per cent increase in average rental values this year.

In response, we at OFTEC are urging students to avoid moving into cheaper accommodation options without properly inspecting the property.

The trade association has issued advice to help students in West and North Yorkshire check their accommodation is safe and compliant with rental regulations before they sign the dotted line.

The five top tips include:

* Check for smoke and CO alarms. In October 2022, it became a mandatory requirement for private landlords to provide smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. It is also a legal requirement to fit a carbon monoxide detector when a fossil fuel appliance has been replaced.

* Ask about the heating system. The Health and Safety Executive recommends that all boilers should be serviced annually. It’s important to ask for evidence of the most recent service and check any identified issues have been resolved.

* Look for damp. It is easy to hide damp patches with a coat of paint, so if the house smells musty or you see evidence of mould, find out how the landlord is planning to fix the problem and get this in writing.

* Furniture and fittings. Ask the landlord for a list of everything that is included in the property and make a note of any damage to items before you move it. Check any beds, sofas and chairs are in good condition. It’s a good idea to take photos for reference.

* Is the home secure? Burglars sometimes target student areas hoping to find lax security or high-value items such as laptops and phones. Check all the windows close securely and that you have all the relevant keys. Also ask about any security alarms fitted and make sure you have the manual to hand.

Malcolm Farrow, OFTEC