For many students it will be the first time they are living away from home and it can be quite daunting.

Here's a brief do's and dont's of renting accomodation:

If you do decide to move into a property make sure you know everything about the hidden charges. For instance are the gas, electricity and council tax included in the rent.

Find out whether the place is suited to you. Some students move in and then realise the nearest bus stop is three miles away.

Be aware of how much notice you need to give if you want to leave and what the deal is with your deposit.

Make sure you have some record of payment of your first cheque, especially the deposit.

Know what your landlord can and can't do under the law. For instance, it's illegal for him/her to turn up without warning or cut off your gas supply

Don't forget a verbal agreement is as legally binding as a written one, so don't agree to anything until you're sure.

If for any reason you don't feel sure about anything concerning your contract with the landlord - visit your local CAB.