Updated January 2025 • **uniXchange Student Guide** • 5 Min Read
"Accommodation season is a race against the clock. Waiting even a few days can cost you a safe, affordable room. Follow these steps to secure your place before classes begin and avoid common student housing scams."
1. Master the Accommodation Timeline (The Race Starts Now)
The biggest mistake is waiting for final acceptance letters. Start your research as soon as you apply to university/TVET. Rooms are often released from October to January, long before funding confirmations are finalized.
- **October - December:** Research accredited private providers (PPAs) and university residence application deadlines.
- **January:** Peak viewing and signing period. You must be prepared to sign a lease within 24 hours of viewing.
- **Late February - March:** Only cancellations and scam listings remain. Avoid waiting until this point.
2. Prepare Your "Quick-Commitment" Pack 💼
Landlords want reliable tenants who can commit instantly. Having these documents ready digitally (scanned PDFs) gives you a massive advantage.
Quick-Start Documentation Checklist
- **Student ID:** Certified copy of your ID/Passport (Must be certified within 3 months).
- **Acceptance Proof:** University or TVET Offer Letter (or proof of registration if a returning student).
- **Funding Proof:** NSFAS Confirmation Letter or Bursary Award Letter (if applicable).
- **Guarantor/Parent Info:** Guarantor's ID copy, proof of residence, and 3 months of bank statements.
- **Reference:** Previous landlord's contact details (if applicable).
3. The Essential Anti-Scam & Safety Guide 🚨
The desperation of January makes students vulnerable. Protect your money and identity with these non-negotiable rules:
Top 3 Red Flags You Must Avoid
- **Remote Payment Pressure:** NEVER pay a deposit to secure a room you haven't viewed in person, or if they insist on an urgent same-day EFT without a formal lease.
- **The Absent Landlord:** If the landlord cannot meet you and sends a "cousin" or asks you to collect keys from a lockbox, it is a high-risk scam.
- **Accreditation Status:** Before paying, confirm the residence is **officially accredited** on your institution’s or NSFAS's website. If it’s not accredited, your NSFAS funding may not cover it.
4. Prioritize Proximity and Transport Links
A cheap room 20km away is not cheap when you factor in daily transport costs and time spent traveling. Use Google Maps to verify the actual walking distance (under 2km is ideal) or proximity to a reliable bus/taxi route.
5. Check The Essentials During Viewing
Don't be shy—viewings are your chance to inspect the value you are paying for. Ask these questions:
- **Security:** Is there 24-hour security, access control, and fencing?
- **Connectivity:** What is the speed/cap on the included WiFi? (Crucial for online learning).
- **Utilities:** Is electricity prepaid, or is it included in the monthly rent?
- **Maintenance:** How quickly are maintenance issues resolved? Ask current tenants if possible.
6. Leverage uniXchange for Last-Minute Opportunities
Once you have exhausted official channels, look for last-minute listings on platforms like uniXchange. Check the **Marketplace** for room swaps or sublets, and the **Campus Buzz** groups for immediate leads from fellow students.
🔑 **Final Action:** Have your documents ready today. Be decisive when you find an accredited room. Don't wait!
Need Help Finding a Roommate?
Post a request on our Marketplace or ask on Campus Buzz!
Go to Marketplace