Moving Out of Student Accommodation in Loughborough

Josh Whittingham
Apr 17
4 min read

A student with a suitcase moving out of student accommodation.

Whether you're finishing your final year or just switching housing, moving out of student accommodation can be stressful if you're not fully prepared. From cleaning and deposit returns to local donation spots and bin collection days, there's a lot to think about. That’s why we’ve put together this complete moving-out checklist for students in Loughborough — so you can wrap up your tenancy the right way and start your next chapter smoothly.

1. Check Your Tenancy Agreement

Before you do anything else, double-check the terms of your tenancy agreement. Look for:

Your move-out date and time
Cleaning requirements
Inventory checklist
Deposit return process

Some landlords or letting agents may request a professional clean or require that furniture be returned to its original layout.

2. Start Packing in Advance

Don’t leave packing until the night before you move. Give yourself at least a week to pack up your belongings.

Pro tips:

Use sturdy boxes and label each one by room
Keep fragile items separate and well-padded
Set aside an essentials bag (snacks, chargers, keys, documents)
Arrange transport or storage in advance if you’re not moving straight into your next home

If you’re moving back home temporarily, consider storage options in Loughborough to avoid bringing everything with you.

3. Deep Clean the Property

Most student accommodation contracts require the house or flat to be returned in the same condition it was given.

Cleaning checklist:

Remove all personal items
Clean kitchen appliances, cupboards, and worktops
Scrub bathroom sinks, toilets, and showers
Vacuum and mop all floors
Wipe down skirting boards, switches, and windowsills

Tip for Loughborough students: If you're short on time, there are several trusted local cleaning services used by students. Ask your letting agent for recommendations. At UniQ Lets, we include cleaning of all communal areas within our prices.

4. Take Photos and Do a Final Inventory Check

Before handing over your keys, take dated photos of each room as proof of its condition. Compare the property to the original inventory — if something’s missing or damaged, be transparent and notify your letting agent.

This step is crucial for protecting your deposit.

5. Deal with Food and Unwanted Items Responsibly

Don’t just bin everything! There are some great options in Loughborough to donate, recycle, or share items you no longer need.

Food donation:

Loughborough Town Hall collection points sometimes run food bank drop-offs
Share surplus with housemates or neighbours

Clothes, kitchenware & small items:

LOROS or British Heart Foundation shops on Market Street
Student Union donation points (check near term-end)

Furniture:

Use local Facebook groups or Freecycle to give away larger items
Ask your letting agent about charities that collect from student houses

6. Organise Rubbish & Recycling

You’d be surprised how many deposits are deducted due to rubbish left behind.

What to do:

Use your final few collection days wisely – Charnwood Borough Council publishes bin calendars for each address
If you’ve got extra waste, consider a trip to the Loughborough Recycling and Household Waste Site off Railway Terrace (bring your student ID and check opening times)
Large item collections can be arranged via the council if needed

7. Settle Your Bills

If you’re in a house where utilities aren’t included, make sure all final housing bills are paid before you go.

Remember to:

Take final meter readings (gas, electric, water)
Split the final amount with housemates
Close or transfer any accounts
Notify your broadband provider to avoid extra charges

At UniQ Lets, we provide all-inclusive bills with every student home - See what's included

8. Redirect Your Mail

It’s easy to forget, but your post won’t follow you unless you set up a redirect.

Steps:

Update your address with your bank, university, and any online shopping accounts
Set up a mail redirect with Royal Mail (can be done online in minutes)
If you’re staying local, you can also collect undelivered mail from the Loughborough Delivery Office on Nottingham Road

9. Return Your Keys (Don’t Forget!)

Return all sets of keys requested (front door, back door, windows, bedroom) by the deadline in your contract.

Late returns can delay your deposit and may incur charges.

10. Stay in Touch for Your Deposit Return

Your deposit should be returned within 10 days of agreeing on any deductions. It must be protected in a tenancy deposit scheme (DPS, TDS or MyDeposits).

Make sure you’ve:

Left your forwarding address and contact info
Provided your bank details for the return
Reviewed any proposed deductions from your landlord or agent

Final Thoughts

Moving out of student accommodation in Loughborough can feel like a lot to juggle — but with a bit of planning, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and get your deposit back without issues.

Whether you’re finishing your degree or just changing houses, following this checklist ensures a smooth handover and a fresh start.

If you’re looking for your next student home in Loughborough, check out our available properties. We’re here to make your student housing experience simple, stress-free, and totally transparent.

Your journey doesn’t end after uni, and if you’re still undecided on what to do next, don't panic — Check out our article on What to Do After Graduating University for ideas, tips, and inspiration.