Make the process easy for yourself

The end of your time in student accommodation is approaching, and it's time to pack up, clean, and return your keys. To make sure you leave everything in tip-top condition and avoid any unwanted charges, follow this step-by-step guide. Whether you're leaving early or at the end of your licence agreement, this checklist will walk you through the process.

1. Clear out your room & communal spaces

Before you leave, make sure all areas of your accommodation are completely cleared of personal belongings and rubbish:

• Room: Remove all items, including furniture, bedding, and personal belongings. DO LEAVE the mattress protector on the mattress in your room!
  
• Kitchen: Ensure it's fully cleared, and all food is removed. Don’t forget to clean any appliances you’ve used during your stay.
• Common areas: If applicable, make sure all shared spaces (lounges, hallways, bathrooms) are clean and tidy.

Regarding rubbish:

• Take your rubbish to the appropriate bins, which can be found at various locations on campus.
• Extra rubbish bags are available at: France House Reception, Security Reception at Dawson Hall and the Security Office at Garrod Building.

If additional cleaning or rubbish removal is required, charges will apply, so be sure everything is removed before you leave.

2. Donate unwanted items

Not sure what to do with those old clothes or kitchen items? Queen Mary's Reuse Scheme allows you to donate unwanted things to help future students and local charities.

3. Return your keys (and other access items)

Keys must be returned in person by 10:00am on the last day of your licence agreement. This includes:

• Room keys
• Access cards
• Post box keys

Where to return keys:

• Mile End: Reception, France House, Westfield Way
• Dawson Hall: Security Reception, Dawson Hall
• Floyer House: Security Reception, Garrod Building
• Aspire Point: Reception, Aspire Point
• Blithehale Court: Reception, Blithehale Court
• Sherren House: Reception, Sherren House
• Drop box in your hall: if you live in Ifor Evans Place, Lindop House or Stocks Court ONLY

Key return instructions:

• Place keys in an envelope with your full name, student ID, and accommodation details (building name, flat number, and room letter).
• Free envelopes will be available at key drop-off points.
• Make sure you lock all doors and windows before returning your keys.
• You’ll be issued with a key receipt – keep this as proof to avoid charges.
• Do not leave keys in your room or hand them in through a friend.
• Only seal your envelope if you are using a drop box at Ifor Evans Place, Lindop House or Stocks Court.
  

Important:

• Late or missing keys will result in charges: £120 minimum for a lock change £25 per item for lost keys, access cards, or postbox keys
• £120 minimum for a lock change
• £25 per item for lost keys, access cards, or postbox keys

Do not return the window lock or desk key – these should stay in your room for the next occupant.

4. Check for damages & cleaning fees

Once you’ve vacated your room, the accommodation team will:

• Check your room and communal areas for any damages, missing items, rubbish, or extra cleaning requirements.
• Apply charges for any damage, missing fixtures, or additional cleaning needed.

Make sure everything is in good condition to avoid extra fees!

5. Parking for moving out (if applicable)

If you're being collected by car, you can park on-site (at Mile End or Charterhouse Square) for up to 45 minutes while you load your things. Just remember:

• Parking is NOT allowed overnight.
• Security will assist you in finding a suitable parking space.
• Floyer House has no university parking provision – you’ll need to park on public roads, where charges may apply.

6. Mail & Post

Once you’ve moved out, any mail or packages that arrive will be returned to the sender. You will also be removed from the locker system if you live at Mile End on the day your licence agreement ends. The University cannot hold or forward any post for you, so make sure you redirect your mail before you leave. Visit your local Post Office to set up mail forwarding.

*Top Tip* remember to change your address in all the regular places you order from e.g. Amazon - it will default to the last address you ordered to if not, and items will be returned to sender.

7. Final check-out

Before you head out, don’t forget to:

• Check all drawers, cupboards, and spaces for any personal belongings.
• Double-check that everything has been cleaned and cleared.

Once that’s all done, your accommodation check-out is complete!

Need help or have questions?

If you have any questions or need further assistance with your check-out process, don’t hesitate to contact Housing Services or Residential Services. We’ll be happy to help.

Goodbye and good luck!

We hope you’ve enjoyed your time at Queen Mary and that your accommodation has been a home away from home. Best of luck in your next adventure, and don’t forget to keep things tidy as you leave – it’s the best way to ensure a smooth check-out and avoid any unexpected charges.