House hunting safely during Covid 19 and lockdown

We know some students will be thinking about house hunting, and student landlords are starting to market properties for next year.

Some students will have already been asked to facilitate viewings in their home. Due to the Covid 19 situation, we are advising students to take time to sign and do not feel pressured into signing a contract now. There is plenty of good quality accommodation available throughout the year. You can wait until conditions are safer to view properties in person. We do not advise signing contracts based solely on a virtual viewing. Please visit our Looking For Housing pages for all you need to know about finding your next home.

Public Health Sheffield are also concerned that house hunting and lots of viewings could risk spreading the virus between households and they are issuing the following advice to local HMO landlords. We would also ask our students to follow this safety advice.

''To keep Sheffield safe and healthy we are asking landlords to strike a reasonable balance between safeguarding health and managing their stock effectively. We are therefore asking that landlords only carry out viewings where a property or part of a property is vacant, or where it is to fall vacant in the next 3 months.

• Where a viewing of an occupied property is to take place, in line with government guidance, this should be done by way of virtual viewing where possible.

• Confirm with any current occupiers whether they are isolating or shielding before arranging visits, postponing visits where any current resident is shielding or isolating until suitable arrangements can be made for the viewing to be completed safely;

• Do not carry out viewings unless you are sure that the current occupiers have agreed to adhere to appropriate social distancing (note that you can not require tenants to follow social distancing in their own homes)

• Don’t carry out open house viewings;

• Make sure that the hot water supply is fully functioning and that windows can be opened and securely closed;

• Make sure that the unit of accommodation, the shared areas and the furniture and furnishings provided are in a good, clean condition;

• Take your own towels/paper towels/ hand gel and wash your hands thoroughly when attending the property; dispose of used tissue and masks using double bags, and ensure that those visiting to view do the same;

• Wear a face covering, and ensure prospective tenants who view use them too;

• Sanitise keys before and after handing to contractors or tenants.

If you have issues with a landlord around viewing a property safely or other housing query, please contact the Student Advice Centre via emailing advice@sheffield.ac.uk.

The SU intends to hold a virtual Housing Fair in February where you will be able to meet reputable landlords who have Snug standard properties which meet highest property and management standards. The Welfare Committee will also be running housemate finder events for those that are still looking for their perfect housemate.

Stay safe.