Moving out is a big step, and you may have to go before you’re ready.
This section is about choosing the right place for you.
Renting a property
Renting your first place is exciting – you get to decide how you want to live and can come and go as you please. But before you pack your bags or hand over your deposit, there are a few things to look out for.
First of all, decide what kind of accommodation will suit your needs and your budget. The next step is to contact the landlord. This can be the Council, Housing Associations or a private landlord.
A bedsit – this is usually one room, whether on its own or as part of a larger property. Bedsits are usually the cheapest option and great if you want to live alone or move out as soon as possible.
Lodging – if you rent a room in the landlord’s house, you are a lodger. This can also be a fairly cheap option, although it can vary depending on the individual property and landlord.
Shared housing – this is where you live with one or more person in the same house. It can be with a group of people you know, or a house with a spare room.
Self-contained flats and houses – renting your own self-contained property is the most expensive option, but it does give you more independence and privacy.
What to look for in a property
When you find a property, there are few questions you should ask before you sign anything:
What do you pay?
• How much is the rent?
• Do you pay monthly or weekly?
• Does it include bills?
• Who is responsible for paying for repairs?
Are you sharing?
• Who else lives there?
• Do you think you will get on with them?
• Are there any house rules?
• Do you share bills and other stuff?
What are the benefits?
• Does the property seem well looked after?
• Is the house secure?
• Would you feel safe living there?
• Will furniture and kitchen equipment be provided?
• What heating is there? Check that the gas safety certificate is up-to-date.
• Are there any shops nearby?
• Is the property close to a bus/train route?
Don’t make a decision straight away. Give yourself time to think about what’s on offer and how much it costs. After all, once you sign up, you’re legally obliged to honour the contract.
Contracts and Evictions
Signing a tenancy agreement means you agree to the rights and responsibilities of the tenant (that’s you) and the landlord, as stated in the agreement.
The agreement is a form of contract, so make sure you read it carefully and understand everything before you sign it. If you can’t pay the rent regularly you may be asked to leave, or evicted from the property.
Finding accommodation
Finding somewhere to live can be a daunting experience. Bolton's Housing Advice Service can help get you started. They offer advice about a range of housing issues including renting accommodation from private landlords, Housing Associations and the Council as well as housing benefits. You'll find them on Silverwell Lane in Bolton Town Centre (tel: 01204 335900). You can drop-in to see someone from 9am to 12 noon, Monday, Tuesday and Friday or you can get advice over the telephone 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. On Wednesdays they only see people by appointment.
There are other agencies locally that can provide you with help and support. Contact details and basic information about these services are included in our Housing factsheet.