Dublin City University Student Union Vice President, Nathan Murphy is urging incoming students to avoid digs “with hidden costs” amid the housing crisis.
The VP for Community and Citizenship is advising students to watch out for scams and extra expenses when it comes to renting accommodation. He told Dublin Live: “If you can get it and afford it, student accommodation is better.
"With digs, you’ve to do what that person is saying to you like you’ve to be home at this time, you can’t have anyone back, we don’t want you doing this or doing that. There’s a lot of rules around it, it’s kind of like living at home with your parents.
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“Scams are a big one. A few digs don’t let you stay during weekends, so be aware of that. Another thing is the price of it, some will say that it’s €100 per week but that doesn’t include bills.
"They could charge you for electricity, WiFi - even if you don’t use it. Just be careful of the hidden costs. With digs, you’re not protected under any laws or legislations.”
When looking for student accommodation, Mr Murphy has given a list of the top things to look out for including location and the room description. He said: “You’re looking at location, what price it is and what you’re getting for your money.
"Some people don’t realise that they’ve signed themselves up for a twin-room thinking that they’re going to get a single. You need to look at exactly what you’re getting yourself into."
Nathan also explained that DCU has accommodation support on the Student Life website which includes DCUSU approved digs.
“It tells you where you can find accommodation on-campus, off-campus like Hazelwood and it gives you a list of digs,” he added. “We’ve a digs list so we can contact them if people can’t get a room.
“We’ve nearly 100 people offering digs, so more than likely someone still has a room available. We’ve short-term plans too, we’ve deals with certain hotels around the area who offer short-term accommodation at a discounted price.
“Obviously, we don’t want anyone to stay in a hotel constantly but if it is an option at that point we can put students there and see what we can do in the meantime.”
To those students who are finally going to college in September, whether it’s through a PLC course or with your Leaving Certificate points, here is Nathan’s advice.
He said: “Make the most of your time in college especially if you’re moving away from home. Try and make friends, don’t be afraid to jump right into the college experience. A lot of people can feel homesick and reluctant to get involved in clubs and societies, but do everything you can in college because it’s a great experience.”
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