Student accommodation viewing checklist
A no-pressure checklist for students and parents going on a viewing. Take this with you. Tick things off. Decide later, in your own time.
A viewing is the one moment you get to see what you are signing up for in real space. The aim is to leave with answers, photos and a clear sense of whether the room and the building work for you. Not to be talked into anything on the day.
How to use this list
Skim through it before you go. On the day, open it on your phone and tick items as you cover them. Anything that doesn't get answered, write it down and follow up by email after.
01
Before you arrive
- Confirm the viewing date, time and address by email or phone.
- Write down the room types you want to see (ensuite, studio, deluxe, large).
- Bring a parent, guardian or coursemate if you want a second opinion.
- Bring your phone fully charged so you can take photos.
- Have a list of questions ready (use the ones below).
02
The room itself
- Is the room a comfortable size for your routine (study, sleep, cook)?
- Bed size and storage. Is there room for your clothes and your stuff?
- Desk and chair. Can you actually work here?
- Natural light. Is the window in a useful position?
- Heating, sockets, Wi-Fi signal in the room itself.
- Bathroom: shower pressure, ventilation, cleanliness.
- Kitchen (or shared kitchen): appliances, fridge space, surfaces.
03
The shared facilities
- The gym. Is the equipment in working condition?
- Study rooms. Are they quiet, useful for deadline weeks?
- Cinema room and games room. Worth using?
- Communal lounge and kitchen. Do they feel sociable, well kept?
- Laundry room. How many machines, how busy at peak times?
- Bin storage and cleaning rotas.
04
The building
- Building access. How do residents get in and out?
- CCTV coverage and where cameras are positioned.
- Where to report a maintenance issue.
- Fire safety. Where are the exits and alarms?
- Bike storage if you cycle.
- Mail and parcel handling.
05
The contract and money
- Weekly price for the exact room you saw.
- Contract length and start/end dates.
- Deposit amount, when it is paid, how it is protected.
- Payment plan options (termly, monthly, in full).
- Guarantor requirements, if any.
- What happens if you change your mind. Any guarantees (No Visa No Pay, No Place No Pay)?
- What bills are included. What is not (TV licence, food, personal subs).
- Couples policy if relevant.
06
The neighbourhood
- Walk to campus. How long, how safe at night?
- Nearest supermarket and pharmacy.
- Cafes, bars and food on the doorstep.
- Public transport. Bus stop and station.
- Green spaces nearby.
- How the street feels in the evening.
07
Before you leave
- Take a few photos of the room, the kitchen and any shared space you cared about.
- Write down anything the team confirmed verbally (price, availability, dates).
- Ask for the team's direct email so you can follow up.
- Confirm the next step. Is the room being held, do you have a deadline to decide?
- Compare honestly. Avoid deciding inside the building.
Specific to Northgate House
If you are viewing Northgate House, here are the specifics you can confirm on the day:
- Walk from your campus building to Agard Street, DE1 1DZ.
- Walk through an ensuite room and a studio so you can compare in person.
- Try the on-site gym, study rooms and cinema room.
- Ask the team about current pricing, the No Visa No Pay and No Place No Pay guarantees, and the MooMoo VIP card resident perk.
- Confirm office hours and the route to the on-site team if you need them.
After the viewing
Don't decide while you are still inside the building. Walk out, get a coffee somewhere nearby, and talk it through with whoever came with you. Cross-check the photos against your checklist that evening. If the answer is yes, follow up the next working day. The room will still be there for a reasonable hold.
Common questions
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01. How do I book a viewing at Northgate House?
Use the book a viewing form, call the team on 01332 890850, or email info@northgatehousederby.co.uk. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
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02. Can parents come to a viewing?
Yes. Parents and guardians are welcome to attend viewings. Many students bring a parent or a friend.
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03. How long does a viewing take?
Usually around 20–30 minutes. The team will walk you through a room of the type you are considering, the shared facilities, and answer any questions.
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04. What if I cannot visit in person?
International students and applicants further afield can enquire and book without visiting. The team will share information and photos by email.
Get in touch
Book a viewing of Northgate House.
Pick a time during office hours. Bring a parent or a friend. The team are happy to walk you through everything.
Keep reading
More guides.
- 01. Rooms
Studios vs ensuites in Derby: how to choose
A practical comparison of self-contained studios and ensuite rooms in shared flats at Northgate House Derby. Privacy, price, social life and how to decide.
- 02. Living in Derby
Living in Derby as a University of Derby student
Living in Derby as a University of Derby student. Campus locations, transport, supermarkets, food, nightlife and getting around in DE1 city centre.
- 03. Inclusions
What 'all bills included' covers in student rent
A plain-English breakdown of what "all bills included" actually covers at Northgate House Derby. Wi-Fi, water, electricity, gas, heating and contents insurance.