Taking over a halls contract: a checklist

Taking over someone's halls contract can be a great way to get a room at short notice, at any point in the year: it's furnished, bills are usually included, the end date is fixed, and the person leaving often offers a deal to get it taken quickly. Here's what to check.

Before you say yes

• Are you eligible? Most providers need you to be a full-time student, sometimes at a specific university, and some need a guarantor. Ask the tenant, then confirm with the provider.
• See the room. Ask for more photos or a quick video call around the flat.
• Confirm the details with the provider, not just the tenant: the weekly rent, what's included, the contract end date and any fees.
• Check the move-in date and how you'll get the keys.
• Get any deal in writing, such as the tenant covering your first weeks of rent, so there's no confusion later.

Doing it safely

• Never pay the tenant. No rent, deposit or "holding fee" to another student. You pay the provider, after you sign their contract.
• Sign your own contract with the provider. Don't move in on a private arrangement.
• Be wary of pressure. Someone rushing you to pay before you've seen anything official is a red flag. Report it.

Ready to look?

Browse rooms available for takeover, and use the "Deals only" filter to see rooms where the tenant is offering something extra.