Before you sign

The landlord and the money

• Landlord or agent has shown ID or company details. Account name matches the landlord.
• Total monthly cost is clear: rent + electricity + water + Wi-Fi + parking + fees.
• Deposit amount, where it is held, and the refund terms are written down.
• Any application, admin or key fees are listed.
• NSFAS accreditation proof, if you are funded.

The place

• Viewed in daylight and after dark.
• Gate or access control, CCTV, lighting, burglar bars, locks that work.
• Water pressure, hot water, plugs, no damp or mould, working stove and fridge.
• Wi-Fi speed (ask to test it) and what happens during load-shedding.
• Noise, neighbours and visitor rules.
• Fire exits and extinguishers.

Getting around

• Real walk or ride time to your campus. Ask current residents.
• Taxi, bus or Gautrain access, and shuttles if promised.

The lease

• Lease period matches your academic year.
• Early cancellation and penalty clauses are read.
• Subletting, visitors, damage and cleaning clauses are fine.
• Guarantor terms are understood.
• Everything promised in the advert is in the lease.
• Signed copy and receipts for every payment.
• Move-in condition photos sent to the landlord.