What Questions Should I Ask Before Moving into a Flatshare in London?

 
08/10/2025

Finding the right flatshare in London is one of those decisions that can make or break your living experience. The right home can make your daily life comfortable and stress-free, while the wrong one can lead to awkward situations, financial strain, or even disputes down the line. Before you commit to signing a tenancy agreement or transferring a deposit, it’s essential to ask the right questions  not just about the room itself but also about the people, policies, and overall living conditions.


Whether you’re a professional relocating for work or a student new to the city, asking the right questions can help you make an informed, confident choice. At Right Room, we’ve seen how the smallest details can make a big difference, which is why we always encourage tenants to clarify every point before moving in.

 

 

1. What’s Included in the Rent?

This is one of the most common and important questions. Some flatshares include all bills, council tax, Wi-Fi, electricity, gas, and water, while others don’t. In London, where living costs can vary greatly depending on location and property type, knowing what’s included helps you budget accurately.


If you’re exploring room rentals in Southampton or studio flats in South London, you might notice “bills included” options often come at a slightly higher rent but save you the hassle of splitting bills with other tenants. Platforms like Right Room make this clear upfront, so you can focus on the living experience rather than the admin.

 

 

2. How Long Is the Contract and What Are the Terms?

London flatshares come with different tenancy agreements, some flexible, others long-term. Before signing, ask:


  • Is it a fixed-term contract or a rolling one?

  • What’s the notice period?

  • Can you leave early if your job or study plans change?

If you’re considering a short-term professional flatshare or a studio flat in Southampton while on a temporary work project, flexibility becomes key. Always check for clauses that protect you in case of unexpected changes. Right Room offers flexible tenancy terms designed around real-life situations, giving you peace of mind without hidden penalties.

 

 

3. Who Are the Current Flatmates?

It’s easy to overlook this, but knowing who you’ll be living with can significantly impact your comfort. Ask about:


  • Occupations or study routines

  • Working hours or sleep patterns

  • Shared cleaning responsibilities

For working professionals, a quiet and respectful environment often ranks higher than social events. At Right Room, we prioritise professional rentals and verified tenants, helping you match with like-minded flatmates for a more balanced living arrangement.

 

 

4. What’s the Area Like?

Every part of London has its own character. Some areas are lively and social, while others are quieter and more residential. It’s worth asking about:


  • Nearby transport links (Tube, Overground, bus routes)

  • Grocery shops, gyms, and restaurants

  • Safety, especially if you come home late from work

For example, someone renting in Zone 2 may find a quicker commute but higher rent, while Zone 4 or beyond might offer more space for the same cost. If you’re searching for affordable studios in Southampton or studio apartments near Solent University, consider proximity to work, university, or city amenities before signing anything.

 

 

5. How Is the Deposit Protected?

Legally, your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme. Always ask for proof of this before moving in. It’s a vital safeguard against unfair deductions when you move out.


At Right Room, every tenancy follows UK deposit protection rules, ensuring transparency and trust between landlords and tenants. If you’re ever uncertain, we guide you through how the deposit system works and what to expect when you leave the property.

 

 

6. Are There Any House Rules?

Flatshares often come with certain rules to keep things running smoothly. Ask about:


  • Guests and overnight stays

  • Shared spaces (kitchen, bathroom, living area)

  • Cleaning schedules

  • Quiet hours

It’s better to clarify these before moving in than deal with surprises later. Right Room properties are clearly listed with house guidelines, ensuring you know what to expect from day one.

 

 

7. What’s the Move-In Process Like?

Understanding the move-in process helps you plan better. Ask whether there’s a check-in inventory, how the keys are handed over, and whether the landlord or agent will be present on move-in day. At Right Room, we streamline this through virtual viewings and digital agreements, helping tenants move in quickly and confidently, even from abroad.

 

 

8. Who Manages the Property?

It’s important to know who to contact for repairs, maintenance, or any tenancy concerns. Some properties are managed directly by landlords, while others go through a letting agent in Southampton or London. With Right Room, you get responsive landlord services and on-hand support, ensuring your home remains safe, comfortable, and well-maintained throughout your stay.

 

 

9. Is There Flexibility to Extend or Transfer?

If your plans change, you might want to extend your tenancy or move to another location. Ask whether the landlord allows this, and if there’s a transfer option available. Many tenants, for instance, start in student accommodation in Southampton and later move into professional flatshares in London. Right Room supports this transition seamlessly through a network of available properties in both cities.

 

 

10. What’s the Neighbourhood Like for Professionals?

If you’re moving to London for work, you’ll want a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle. Some professionals prefer the energy of Canary Wharf or Shoreditch, while others value calm areas like Clapham or Wimbledon. Ask about:


  • Noise levels at night

  • Commuting options

  • Parking availability (if you drive)

Similarly, for studio flats near Southampton University or student rooms in Southampton, it’s worth checking how easy it is to access campus facilities or part-time job hubs nearby.

 

 

How Right Room Simplifies the Process

Finding the right flatshare isn’t just about asking the right questions, it’s about having the right people to guide you. Right Room is designed for professionals and students who want a secure, transparent, and efficient renting experience. Every property is verified, all listings clearly mention rent inclusions, and our team provides virtual viewings, saving you time and unnecessary travel.


If you’re comparing studio flats to rent in Southampton or looking for property to rent in London, Right Room offers a single, reliable platform connecting you with private landlords, rental experts, and affordable studio rent deals, all with bills included and no hidden surprises.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Moving into a flatshare in London can be one of the most exciting chapters of your professional life. But it’s also a financial and emotional commitment, so don’t rush it. Ask every question you need to feel confident about where you’re going to live.


From tenancy terms and deposit protection to flatmate compatibility and management support, the more you know upfront, the smoother your experience will be.

At Right Room, we make that journey easier. Whether you’re searching for London flatshares or studio flats in Southampton, our verified listings and responsive team help you find the right home, without the stress, hidden costs, or uncertainty.

 

 

Ready to start your search?


 Explore verified professional flatshares in London and affordable studios in Southampton today with Right Room, where transparency, comfort, and convenience meet.


 
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