Living in the UK 

Flatting in the UK

Finding a flat in the UK can be a lengthy process, not because there are a shortage of them but because you need to consider important factors such as location and public transport before moving in. Take your time and look around to make sure you are happy with both the flat and the area. 

Fully furnished Flats in the UK 

• Most UK flats are fully furnished and apart from buying bedding you will not need to make any purchases before moving in.
• Fully furnished should include every piece of furniture required, including a bed.
• Before you move into a flat do a full inspection of the property, if there are any marks on the wall or a light doesn't work, note it down.
• In a fully furnished flat everything should be in working order, if something is broken or not working it is the landlord's responsibility to have it fixed or replaced before you move in.

Popular locations of Flats in London

As always an important factor to look into before moving into a flat is the location, do some research about the area and ask your friends and/or colleagues their opinions. Think about whether it is easy to get to, is there a Bus, Tube or Train Station in the area.  

• The average travel time to get to work is about 45-60 minutes so being in close proximity to public transport will minimize the length of your working day. 
• Also note down the surroundings of the flat, are there any shops, supermarkets or restaurants convenient.
• The flat may be perfect, but if you can't just pop out and buy a loaf of bread or get out of the house to have a nice meal, is it best to look further?
• There are still main areas in which New Zealanders and Australians tend to reside, we have generally been drawn to the South West of London, areas such as Hammersmith, Chiswick, Clapham, Shepherds Bush and Acton.
• Shepherds Bush and Acton are both cheaper areas and tend to have a lot of shared flats.
• Clapham is generally a bit more expensive and is more suitable for those who are looking for a house with a decent sized living area.

Paying bond when moving into a Flat in the UK

Moving into a place for the first time is quite expensive.  

• You can expect to pay 1 month's worth of rent as well as bond upfront.
• Bond is an insurance that the landlord's property will be in the same condition from when you move in, to when you move out.
• When you decide to leave you will be credited back the full amount once an inspection has been made.
• If they are not happy with the condition of the property or something needs to be fixed, the amount required will be deducted from your bond.