As we come to the end of the academic year, it’s time to look around your room in dismay at everything you’ve managed to accumulate! Don’t stress though – our 10-step guide should make moving out an easy process.
1. Get organised!
Packing everything up can feel overwhelming so if you can, try and start earlier rather than later by sorting through any unwanted items, or pack up a bit each day instead of all in one go. And don’t forget to leave enough time after packing for cleaning.
2. Donate/re-gift anything you aren’t taking with you.
Better for the planet and for your bank balance, you can donate gift or sell your unwanted items. You can try Facebook Marketplace for selling items quickly.
- Food donations - If you have any in-date, unopened and non-perishable food, you can bring it to one of the food donation points at on-campus accommodation receptions, and donated food items will be sent to local food banks and homeless charities.
- Charity donations - British Heart Foundation, Hospiscare and In Focus are all nearby charities which accept donations – they each have a list of items you can donate on their website. There are also many BHF donation bins on campus.
- Reuse/Regift - the University run a scheme called Gift It Reuse It where you can donate items for future Exeter students to reuse! This scheme is open to all students, with donation points in University accommodation – see where you can donate items.
3. Waste and Glass Collections:
Students on the Move is a waste collection scheme where you can arrange extra waste collections for things you cannot recycle. Head to a campus information point to pick up a green envelope for more information and then contact your Community Wardens to arrange a collection.
4. Need to store items over the summer?
If you are needing to store your stuff over the summer, there are a number of self-storage companies in Exeter that can look after your stuff. Some will even help pack and deliver it again on your return to Exeter.
- Armadillo Self Storage
- Cinch Self Storage
- Ease the Squeeze Storage
- Kit Keeper
- HouseIt
- Safestore
- Student Express
- Student Storage Box
- Stuff2Move
Disclaimer: this information is for reference only; these companies are in no way affiliated to the University or Students' Guild. Therefore, we cannot be held responsible for the quality of service they provide.
5. Cleaning up at the end of your tenancy.
You do not have to pay to have your accommodation professionally cleaned. Landlords/estate agents cannot request that you do this (even if they snuck it into your contract, it is not legal to request). However, you do need to return the property in the same condition as you found it – so don't leave your property dirty and full of rubbish bags! We'd recommend buying a few cleaning products to give your place a good clean before you leave, or you could consider paying for a professional cleaner.
If you have damaged any items, it might be more cost effective to replace them, or this could come out of your deposit.
6. Don’t forget outside spaces!
Cleaning and tidying should include any outdoor spaces, so make sure any gardens/yards/balconies are tidy and free from rubbish.
7. Take photos when you leave.
Be sure to take photos of all rooms and spaces before you leave, just in case there are any disputes on the condition.
8. Take final meter readings.
This is an important one! Make sure you take final meter readings for your gas/electric/water or you could pay for more than you used. Also phone any energy companies to tell them you have moved and the date you did this. Don’t forget about your broadband contracts too.
9. Cancel subscriptions.
Every year, we always see students panicking that they forgot to cancel their subscription for Hello Fresh boxes, or they haven't changed their address for their latest Amazon order. Don’t be that person! Make sure you cancel, pause or update addresses on your subscriptions such as:
- Online shopping sites (e.g. Amazon, ASOS)
- Netflix (especially if you've paid for a group subscription)
- Reoccuring subscriptions (e.g. Hello Fresh)
- Bank accounts & Student Loans
- Drivers licence
- Electoral roll
- Doctors & Dentists (including prescription delivery services)
- Gym membership
10. Getting your deposit back
If you’ve left your property in the same condition as you’ve found it, there should be no reason why you won’t get your deposit back. Landlords must place your deposit into a deposit protection scheme. If you have any queries or you’re in a dispute about getting your deposit back, contact our Advice team for guidance.
We hope your move goes smoothly, and you’ve got fond memories of your year in Exeter!