Your student accommodation move-in day checklist matters more than it seems: the ten minutes you spend photographing your room and logging any existing damage when you arrive is what protects your deposit when you move out.
Here’s exactly what to check, room by room, and what to do if something isn’t right.
Before you unpack: document the condition of your room
This is the single most important thing to do on move-in day, and it takes just a few minutes.
Most accommodation comes with an inventory or condition report. Go through it against the actual room, and don’t sign it off as accurate until you’ve checked properly.
Take dated photos and short videos of anything already marked, worn, or broken — before you put a single box down.
- Photograph any stains, scuffs, chips, or marks on walls, floors, and furniture.
- Film a slow walk-through of the whole room, narrating what you see.
- Note anything missing that the inventory says should be there.
- Keep everything saved somewhere you won’t lose it before the end of your tenancy.
If you’re unclear on your rights as a tenant around deposits and condition, our guide to the Renters’ Rights Act and what it means for students is worth a read.
Check the essentials work
Don’t wait until you need something to find out it’s broken. Run through the basics while you still have staff around to report to.
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- Test all the lights, plug sockets, and any provided appliances.
- Run the taps and check hot water and the shower.
- Find the heating controls and make sure they work.
- Check the Wi-Fi connects and get the login details.
- Locate the fire exits, alarm points, and any provided fire safety equipment.
Your room and storage
Make sure everything you’re paying for is actually there and in working order.
- Bed, mattress, desk, chair, wardrobe, and drawers — all present and sturdy.
- Every window and the main door lock open, close, and lock properly.
- Your key, fob, or entry card works on all the doors it should.
- Blinds or curtains are present and functional.
Kitchen and bathroom
Whether these are private or shared, the same checks apply.
- Fridge and freezer are cold and clean, and you know which shelf or space is yours.
- Oven, hob, microwave, and kettle all work.
- Bathroom drains run freely and the toilet flushes properly.
- Look for any signs of damp, mould, or leaks and photograph them straight away.
Know what’s included
Before you start setting up utilities or worrying about extra costs, check what your rent already covers. In most purpose-built student accommodation, bills are included — but it’s worth confirming exactly what that means for your building. Our guide on bills included student accommodation breaks down what’s usually covered and what isn’t.
What to do if something’s wrong
Finding a problem on move-in day isn’t a disaster — as long as you report it properly and in writing.
- Report any damage, missing items, or faults to reception or your accommodation team the same day.
- Put it in writing (email or the resident portal) even if you’ve told someone in person, so there’s a record.
- Attach your dated photos to the report.
- Keep a copy of everything you send and any reply you get.
Once the practical checks are done, the settling-in begins. Our guide to settling into student accommodation as a first-year covers the first few weeks — meeting flatmates, making the space yours, and handling homesickness.
Frequently asked questions
Why does documenting my room on move-in day matter so much?
Because it’s your evidence. When you move out, any dispute over damage comes down to what was already there versus what happened during your tenancy. Dated photos and a checked inventory from day one are the simplest way to protect your deposit.
What if I notice damage days after moving in?
Report it as soon as you find it, in writing, with photos. It’s always better to flag something late than not at all — but the sooner you report it, the clearer it is that it wasn’t caused by you.
Do I need to check a shared kitchen if it’s not just mine?
Yes. You can still be held jointly responsible for shared spaces, so it’s worth noting the general condition on arrival — especially anything already damaged or broken.
Choosing the right place makes settling in easier from day one. Browse student accommodation on Hallbookers to compare rooms across the UK and find one that suits how you want to live.
The photo in this article was generated with AI.
