Remember that the contract is a binding agreement which may contain detailed terms you didn't notice when you signed. Read it through carefully before you put pen to paper. In most cases your contract will be an Assured Shorthold Tenancy, which has standard terms. Always check that gas, electricity and water appliances are in working order. Make sure the house is safe and equipped with a fire alarm, smoke detectors, a burglar alarm, window locks, and five-barrel deadlocks.
Petty burglars love student housing, as they are often full of electronic equipment.
Shop around for the best deal on contents insurance, and insure your possessions for their full replacement value. Make sure you are clear about how bills, including rent and services, are to be paid. If the bills are not included in the rent, you will need to contact the relevant companies to register for accounts. Make sure that all bills are in joint names, not just your own. Anyone whose name is on the bill is liable for the full amount.