Living expenses

  • If you are thinking of moving out, you'll need to think about the financial costs that come with finding (and keeping) a place to live. It's hard to say exactly how much money you need, because costs change from region to region - you'll need to check your local paper, letting agency or Citizens Advice Bureau.
  • If you rent, you'll need a lot of money to cover a deposit and rent at the beginning of your tenancy.  A deposit is usually one and a half month's rent, and then you pay your first month's rent on top of that.  The deposit should be returned to you when you move out, but part of it may be used to pay for any damages you caused and for cleaning carpets.
  • If you rent, you may have to pay council tax, which depends on the area you live in, the kind of house you are in, and how your bills are divided.  This can be a large sum of money - ask how much you need to pay in council tax per year before you sign any agreement.
  • If you find a place through a letting agency, you may end up paying a non- refundable fee.
  • If you want a phone line installed, you'll have to pay an initial deposit, then your monthly rental fee and the cost of individual calls.
  • Do you want a furnished or unfurnished place?  Buying furniture or appliances can quickly break the bank - so if you are on a low income or are new to renting, you might want to opt for a furnished place.
  • Finally, don't forget the cost of heating and water - check out the average cost of bills before you make the decision to move in.

 

Page last updated: Nov 28 2007
Connexions is part of Cambridgeshire County Council