FAQs: What to ask before renting
The Artful Lodger Guide:
Unlike the big national sites, we’re Sheffield through and through. We don’t do “ghost listings” or substandard housing. When you find a studio or apartment through us, you’re getting a curated slice of the best the city has to offer.
Viewing a property in the Steel City? Don’t just check the view of the Peak District; ask these questions to make sure the vibe matches the reality.
Q: Is this property ‘Artful Lodger Inspected & Commended’?
Why ask: We only list properties that meet our high standards for management and condition. If it’s on our portal, it’s already been vetted, but asking the landlord or agent about the badge shows you’re a savvy renter who knows the Sheffield market.
Q: What’s included in the rent (and is there a ‘Bills-In’ option)?
Many of our featured city-centre developments (BTR) include Wi-Fi or gym access, while student houses in areas like Broomhill or Ecclesall Road often offer “all-inclusive” packages.
The Pro Question: “Does the rent include the on-site amenities, or is there a separate service charge for things like the bike store or residents’ lounge?”
Q: What’s the Council Tax Band?
Sheffield Council Tax can vary significantly between a converted cutlery works in S3 and a new-build in S1.
The Pro Question: “Is this a Band A or B? (And if I’m a student, is the exemption process straightforward with this landlord?)”
Q: How’s the commute to the University or the Station?
Sheffield is built on seven hills—a “10-minute walk” on a map might be a 15-minute climb in reality!
The Pro Question: “How long does it actually take to walk to the Diamond Building or Sheffield Station? Are there secure bike storage facilities on-site?”
Q: Who manages the property day-to-day?
Is it a hands-on independent landlord or a dedicated on-site building manager like those at Kelham Island or West One?
The Pro Question: “If my boiler goes on a freezing February morning, who am I calling? Is there an emergency 24-hour contact?”
Q: What’s the neighbourhood vibe at 10 PM?
Renting a flat above a bar on Division Street is great for nightlife, but different from a quiet mews in Nether Edge.
The Pro Question: “Is the soundproofing up to modern standards? What are the neighbours like—is it a mix of professional tenants and students?”
Q: What’s the EPC rating and heating type?
Some of Sheffield’s beautiful industrial conversions have high ceilings that can be pricey to heat if they aren’t efficient.
The Pro Question: “Can I see the EPC? Is the heating electric or gas, and what were the average bills for the last tenant?”
Q: What’s the deal with parking?
Sheffield City Centre parking is a premium. Many areas (such as S1 and S3) are permit-only or have no on-site parking.
The Pro Question: “Does this come with a dedicated space, or do I need to apply for a Sheffield City Council permit? If so, what’s the waitlist like?”
Q: Can I make this place 'mine'?
Artful Lodgers have style. You might want to hang art or bring your own signature furniture.
The Pro Question: “Is the landlord cool with ‘non-permanent’ changes like command strips for photos, or can we negotiate on furniture if I want to bring my own?”
Q: How fast is the broadband (really)?
If you’re WFH or a gamer, “good internet” isn’t enough. Many Sheffield developments now have hyper-fast fibre.
The Pro Question: “Which providers are available here? Is it plug & play & what are the restrictions?”