10 Things Every Student Should Check Before Renting a Room

You found a room that looks great. The price is right, the location works. But before you hand over your deposit, the RoomSarthi team recommends checking these 10 critical things. Skipping even one can lead to unexpected costs, unsafe conditions, or months of regret.

1. Get Everything in a Written Rent Agreement

This is the most important thing on this list. A written agreement protects you legally. It should clearly mention:

• Monthly rent amount and due date
• Security deposit amount and refund terms
• Notice period for vacating (typically 1 month)
• What's included in rent (meals, WiFi, electricity)
• Duration of the agreement

2. Clarify Electricity and Water Charges

Some PGs include electricity in the rent. Others charge it separately. Ask:

• Is electricity included or metered separately?
• Is there a fixed monthly cap? What happens if you exceed it?
• Is AC usage charged extra?
• What about water — is there 24/7 supply?

3. Test the WiFi Speed

WiFi is essential for students. Don't just ask "is there WiFi?" — actually test it:

• Connect to the WiFi during your visit
• Run a speed test (use fast.com or speedtest.net)
• Ask: What's the plan speed? Is it shared with the whole building?
• Minimum acceptable: 20 Mbps for video calls and streaming

4. Inspect Safety and Security

• Strong lock on the room door (prefer deadbolt or digital lock)
• CCTV in common areas (entrance, stairs, parking)
• Fire extinguisher on each floor
• Well-lit corridors and stairways
• Emergency exits accessible and not blocked
• For girls: separate floor access, women caretaker available

5. Check the Bathroom and Water Supply

This is often overlooked. Flush the toilet, run the taps, check the geyser:

• Is the bathroom clean and maintained?
• Is there hot water (geyser/solar)?
• Is the bathroom shared or attached?
• What's the water pressure like?

6. Watch Out for Hidden Costs

The advertised rent is rarely the full cost. Ask about:

• Maintenance charges (₹500-₹1,000/month)
• Laundry charges
• AC charges (₹1,000-₹2,000/month extra)
• Guest charges (some PGs charge for visitors)
• Late payment penalties

7. Check the Food Quality (if meals included)

If the PG provides meals:

• Ask to see the weekly menu
• Try a meal before committing if possible
• Ask other residents about food quality
• What happens on days when you skip meals?

8. Understand the House Rules

Every PG has rules. Some you can live with, some you can't:

• Entry/exit curfew time (usually 10-11 PM)
• Visitor policy — can friends visit your room?
• Noise restrictions (quiet hours)
• Cooking allowed in room? (usually no)
• Drinking/smoking policy

9. Talk to Current Residents

The owner will always paint a rosy picture. Talk to students already living there. Ask them:

• Are you satisfied with the food, WiFi, and cleanliness?
• Is the owner responsive when there's a problem?
• Any issues with other residents?
• Would you recommend this PG to a friend?

10. Check the Surrounding Area

• Grocery shop, medical store, ATM within walking distance?
• How is the neighbourhood at night?
• Nearest hospital or clinic?
• Public transport accessibility?
• Any construction noise nearby?