Guide 2026/27

Viewing Checklist: Exeter Student Houses (2026/27)

Everything to check before signing. Print this page and take it with you.

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Gillams Student Lettings Team, Exeter Last reviewed: 11 Jan 2026

10-Minute Viewing Checklist

Use this checklist during your viewing. Tick off each item and make notes. Print this page to take with you.

Heating test – Turn on radiators. Do they get warm within 5 minutes? Check the boiler age (newer = more efficient).
Water pressure – Run the shower. Is pressure strong enough? Ask about hot water supply (combi vs tank).
Damp check – Look for dark patches, peeling wallpaper, or musty smells. Check behind furniture and in corners.
Window condition – Open and close windows. Are they double glazed? Any broken seals or drafts?
Mobile signal – Check your phone signal in every room, especially bedrooms. Weak signal = frustrating year.
Internet speed – Ask what broadband is installed. 30+ Mbps per person is ideal for student houses.
Room sizes – Will your bed, desk and wardrobe actually fit? Measure if needed.
Kitchen check – Count hob rings, check oven works, adequate fridge/freezer space for the group size?
Outdoor space – Is there a garden or yard? Bike storage? Where do bins go?
Security – Check door locks, window locks. Is there a burglar alarm? Well-lit entrance?

Questions to Ask the Agent

What's included in the rent? (Bills, internet, contents insurance?)
How is the deposit protected? (Which scheme?)
What's the tenancy length? (44 weeks, 52 weeks, or flexible?)
How quickly are maintenance issues fixed?
Who manages the property day-to-day?
Are there any planned works during the tenancy?
What's the EPC rating? (A-C is good, D-E is average, F-G is expensive to heat)
Is the landlord registered with NRLA/SafeAgent?

Red Flags to Watch For

Pressure to sign immediately – Legitimate agents give you time. "Sign today or lose it" is a warning sign.
Cash payments – Always pay by bank transfer with a clear paper trail.
No inventory – Insist on a proper check-in inventory with photos.
Vague about bills – Get exact costs or inclusions in writing before signing.
Can't meet at the property – Never pay for a property you haven't physically viewed.
Unlicensed HMO – Houses with 5+ unrelated people need an HMO licence. Ask to see it.
No gas safety certificate – This is a legal requirement. Ask to see the CP12.
Multiple maintenance issues – If things are broken during the viewing, they'll be broken when you move in.

The Commute Check

Before signing, walk the actual route to campus at the time you'd normally leave. Check:

How long does it really take? (Google Maps can be optimistic)
Is the route well-lit for early morning/evening?
Any steep hills that'll be tough in bad weather?
Bus stops nearby? Check Stagecoach H/D routes for Streatham

Properties near Streatham Properties near St Luke's

After the Viewing

Compare notes with your housemates before deciding
Request a second viewing if you're unsure
Get all promises in writing (repairs, inclusions, move-in date)
Read the contract carefully – especially break clauses and deposit terms
Check the agent's reviews (Google, Trustpilot)

Ready to View Properties?

Browse available student houses and book viewings online:

Properties Near Streatham Campus

Most Exeter students study at Streatham. Browse houses in Pennsylvania, St Davids, and Mount Pleasant – all within 15 minutes walk of campus.

Properties Near St Luke's Campus

Medicine, Nursing and Sport Science students need quick access to St Luke's. Properties in Heavitree and the St Luke's area offer 5-12 minute walks.

Browse All Properties

View our complete portfolio. Filter by bedrooms, price, features, and area. Book viewings directly through any property page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a student house viewing take?

Allow 15-20 minutes per property. Rush through and you'll miss important details. A good agent will give you time to check everything on this list.

Can I bring my parents to a viewing?

Yes! Parents often spot things students miss. Many Gillams viewings include parents, especially for groups signing their first house.

Should I view multiple properties on the same day?

We recommend viewing 2-4 properties in one session. More than that and they blur together. Take photos and notes at each one.

What if I spot problems during the viewing?

Raise them immediately. Many issues can be fixed before you move in if agreed in writing. If the agent dismisses concerns, that's a red flag.

How do I book a viewing with Gillams?

Call us on 01392 459 900 or use the enquiry form on any property page. We offer viewings Monday-Saturday, including grouped viewings where we show you multiple matching properties.

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