Students heading to college for the first time are being urged to be vigilant in securing good and affordable accommodation.
The Residential Tenancies Board is advising students to make themselves aware of the prevailing rents in the various cities and towns by checking the Board's online Rent Index.
The RTB is offering advice to students particularly those renting for the first time.
Some of the main points to consider include the proximity of the rental property to college or a convenient transport route, is the property safe and secure and most importantly is it affordable.
When looking at accommodation it's worth finding out what's included in the rent when it comes to heating, electricity, bin charges, internet, cable TV and any other hidden extras.
It's also important to check if the accommodation meets the minimum legal and sanitation requirements.
The group also advise against signing a lease with people you don't know because if they don't pay their rent, leave unpaid bills or damage the property, you could be held Joint and several liable for all their bills.
Another tip on their check list is not to sign a 12 month lease if you're only staying for the 9 month academic year...you could end up paying the extra three months or losing your Deposit.
And the RTB says you need to play your part in the agreement too - don't engage in anti-social behaviour... parties can get out of hand and it could end up costing you a lot of money.
You can find the full check list on RTB dot ie.
