Our top ten tips to keep it as smooth as possible

Moving into private accommodation with your mates is an exciting step in student life, but dealing with bills can be a headache if you don’t stay on top of them. From splitting costs fairly to making sure everything gets paid on time, here are the best ways to keep things smooth and stress-free.

1. Come up with a plan early on

The last thing you want is arguments over who paid what, so get organised from the start. Decide how you’re going to split bills – whether evenly or based on usage – and make sure everyone is clear on their share. You can use a simple Google Sheet to track payments or go for an app like Splitwise or Monzo to keep tabs automatically.

2. Open a bills-only bank account

One of the easiest ways to manage shared expenses is to set up a joint account specifically for bills. Everyone transfers their share each month, and direct debits for rent, electricity, water, and WiFi come out of that account. That way, you avoid the hassle of chasing people for money.

3. Use a bills package service

If you want to keep things super simple, companies like Split The Bills bundle all your utilities into one fixed payment per person. It’s often slightly more expensive than handling bills yourself, but it saves a lot of stress and ensures everything is paid on time.

4. Set up direct debits for essentials

No one wants to be stuck with a final reminder or an unexpected cutoff. Make sure key bills (like energy, water, and broadband) are set up on direct debit so they’re always paid on time. That way, you won’t forget or have to scramble for payments last minute. 

5. Be smart about energy usage

With energy prices rising, it’s important to use less where you can. Turn off lights, avoid leaving things on standby, and layer up in winter before cranking the heating. Small changes can make a big difference when the bill arrives.

6. Plan for unexpected costs

Sometimes, a bill will be higher than expected, or there might be repairs needed in your flat. It’s a good idea for everyone to put a small amount of money aside each month – even just £5-£10 per person – as a backup fund to cover any surprise costs.

7. Communicate openly

Nothing causes tension like money issues. If someone is struggling to pay their share, have an open conversation rather than letting it build up. Work together to find a solution, whether that’s adjusting payments or giving them a bit more time.

8. Get a fair energy deal

Not all energy providers charge the same rates, so it’s worth shopping around to compare deals. Websites like MoneySuperMarket or Uswitch can help you find the best option for your student house.

9. Know your rights

Some landlords try to pass certain bills onto tenants when they shouldn’t. For example, repairs to boilers or leaks are usually their responsibility. Make sure you know what’s your responsibility and what’s your landlord’s so you don’t end up overpaying.

10. Keep things fair and friendly

At the end of the day, you’re all in it together. Being upfront about money, staying organised, and helping each other out if needed will make living with friends a much better experience. The better you handle bills, the less stress there is – and that means more time to enjoy being a student.

Sorting bills doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a bit of planning and teamwork, you can keep things running smoothly and avoid awkward money conversations. Plus, you’ll be learning essential budgeting skills that’ll come in handy long after uni!