How to Set Up Bills in Your Student House (Without the Stress)-Explains utilities, broadband and shared expenses clearly.

Moving into your first student house is an exciting step, but the thrill of independence can quickly be replaced by the reality of managing household bills. Unlike university halls, most private student accommodation in the UK requires tenants to handle their own utilities, broadband, and shared expenses.

If you’ve never had to arrange these before, it can seem daunting. But with the right approach, it’s straightforward – and you can avoid unnecessary stress or disagreements with housemates.

At Orange Student Properties, we’ve helped countless students secure high-quality student rentals and settle into their new homes. Here’s our expert guide to setting up your bills efficiently and fairly

Step 1: Understand What Bills You Need to Cover

In a private student house, bills typically include:

Electricity and gas – Powers heating, hot water, cooking, and appliances.

Water and sewerage – Charged either quarterly or annually.

Broadband and TV licence – Internet access is essential for studying and socialising, while a TV licence is required for live TV or BBC iPlayer.

Council tax – Most full-time students in the UK are exempt, but you’ll need to register with your local council to claim the exemption.

Some student accommodation offers “bills included” rent, but if you’re arranging your own, you’ll need to set these up with suppliers directly.

Step 2: Decide How to Manage Payments

The most common options are:

One person pays, others transfer their share – Simple, but relies on trust and prompt payments.

Separate accounts for each bill – More organised, but requires each tenant to take responsibility for a different utility.

Orange Student Properties offer a Bills management service – so that you make one payment of rent which also covers your bills. This takes all the hassle and uncertainty out of having to set up your bills. It also saves A LOT of stress and time as dealing with energy companies can be quite frustrating and time consuming.

Step 3: Set Up Utilities

Electricity and Gas

Your property will already be connected to a supplier. Take meter readings on your first day and contact the existing provider to give them your details. You’re free to switch suppliers, so it’s worth using a price comparison site to find cheaper rates.

Water

Water suppliers are based on your location and cannot be changed. You’ll need to contact your regional company to register your details and arrange payment – usually via monthly direct debit.

Broadband

Broadband contracts in the UK typically run for 12 or 18 months, so choose a speed that will cope with multiple devices streaming, studying, and gaming at the same time. Avoid leaving this until the last minute, as installation can take up to two weeks.

Step 4: Share Costs Fairly

Money is one of the biggest causes of tension in shared student houses. To avoid disputes:

Agree on how bills will be split before moving in.

Keep a shared spreadsheet or use a bill-splitting app to track payments.

Pay your share on time – delays cause frustration and can affect everyone’s credit record.

If you’re in a large student accommodation with several tenants, rotating responsibility for managing different bills keeps things balanced.

Step 5: Keep on Top of Admin

A few simple habits can save you stress:

Take regular meter readings and submit them to your supplier to avoid estimated bills.

Set up direct debits so you never miss a payment.

Keep all account numbers, reference codes, and passwords stored securely but accessibly.

Step 6: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Suppliers must treat all customers fairly – if you’re struggling to pay, contact them early to arrange a payment plan.

If you move out before your contract ends, you may still be liable for bills unless agreed otherwise with your housemates.

Council tax exemptions only apply if every tenant is a full-time student – if one person is not, you may still be charged.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Leaving bills until after moving in – Always arrange them as soon as you get your move-in date.

Not comparing suppliers – You could save hundreds of pounds a year by switching to a cheaper deal.

Poor communication – Make sure all tenants are aware of payment dates and amounts.

Final Thoughts

Setting up bills in your student house doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing exactly what’s required, sharing the responsibility fairly, and keeping on top of admin, you can ensure your household runs smoothly.

At Orange Student Properties, we pride ourselves on offering quality student rentals across the UK and supporting our tenants every step of the way – including making sure you understand the practical side of moving in.

If you’re looking for reliable student accommodation with clear guidance and support, contact our team today. We’ll help you find the right property and give you the confidence to settle in without the stress.