Including utilities such as water, electricity and internet can sometimes cause friction amongst communal housing

Including bills in rent or not, is what we will discuss here.
Most tenants will ask to have bills included in their rent payments. It makes it easier to budget, no doubt. If each individual paid bills in the house, that could become a big problem in the household because this would put each person pitting against the other if and when bills were divided.
In this article, I will try to go into detail about the pros and cons of each side of the coin.

What bills are we talking about?
Bills usually consist of water and electricity, which usually include heating and hot water, as well as the internet. To most landlords, the internet is a fixed cost, so no matter how much data you use, the price is the same. But other bills such as water and electricity can prove to be a big headache for most landlords, which is based on the usage of each individual. And this usage, depending on the person, can be responsible, normal usage, or excessive usage, such as taking extra long showers, using the washing machine every day for one or two garments, and leaving the heater on endlessly in the winter without care for the landlord or for the parents that are paying the bills.

This fall in 2023 a letter to each tenant will be sent regarding energy usage:

Dear Guest,

As we approach one of the meanest winters of this century concerning energy bills, I wanted to reach out to each one of you.

Upon home visits, I have seen firsthand, how some of you use the washing machine with just a few garments inside on 3-hour cycles... I have also seen from the street how some of you leave lights on and are not even at home. I have also seen how you use heaters, leaving the doors sometimes open and going to the kitchen for a meal… The rest, I can only guess…

This winter will be a test, a test to see whether it is economically feasible, the home you are at, stays on the market for short-term rentals with bills included. Some may think “why should I care, I am going home in 3 months, and I´m paying with bills included, right”? Well to answer that, there are your friends and classmates that may come to Porto and not find a room, and/or the price will be so high, it will be unrealistic. I remind you again, this is not a hotel nor Airbnb situation or you would be paying AT LEAST 4-5 times more...

It is my goal here to shed some light on the energy crisis and give you some tips:

- Washing Machine: Use cold or warm water, shorter cycles, and with a full load.
- Take shorter showers.
- Brushing your teeth or shaving: Turn off the water in between.
- Dress appropriately: wear sweaters and sweats at home and only use the heater when needed. Your skin will thank you.
- Ask for extra blankets and I will get you.
- If you see a light on, turn it off.
- Never leave your heater unattended.

And finally, if there is a spike in energy costs, over the previous averages, be prepared to pay extra.
If you have any ideas to improve energy efficiency in your room or home, let me know.
In the end, as landlord, I prefer to include the bills for various reasons. Firstly, if bills were not included, it would put the housemates at each other. They will ultimately argue with each other, for instance, one who always has the heater on while the other doesn’t even like using the heater at all. Or there is the one that traveled for 3 weeks last month and still has to share the bills with everyone else. That person will feel that the system is unfair. Then there will be those that ultimately argue with the landlord over maybe a 5 euro surcharge because maybe it was miscalculated on his part or the meter count was misread. It basically comes down to there being friction in the air. Thus it is preferable that everyone has their bills included in the rent, so long is there is reasonable usage, which can be compared to previous years.

Porto, Portugal's second-largest city, is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for exchange students. With its charming blend of rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere, Porto offers a unique and fulfilling experience for students. Here are just a few reasons why Porto is a great location for exchange students.


1. Rich History and Culture

Porto is a city steeped in history, from its cobbled streets and centuries-old buildings to its museums and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Students can immerse themselves in the city’s culture while exploring its historic landmarks, such as the iconic Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and the Ribeira district, with its colorful buildings and picturesque views of the Douro River.


For exchange students interested in art and architecture, Porto is home to many galleries and museums, such as the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art. There’s always something to explore and learn in this fascinating city.


2. Affordable Living

Compared to other European cities, Porto is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for exchange students on a budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all reasonably priced, allowing students to stretch their budgets further while still enjoying everything the city has to offer. Students can also find plenty of local cafes and restaurants that offer delicious, authentic Portuguese cuisine at affordable prices.


3. Vibrant Student Life

Porto has a thriving student population, and it's easy to meet people and get involved in social and extracurricular activities. The University of Porto, one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the country, attracts students from all over the world, creating a lively and diverse atmosphere. Whether you’re into sports, music, or theater, there are numerous clubs and organizations to join, making it easy to build friendships and connections.


The city also boasts a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and events catered to students. From traditional Fado music to contemporary DJ sets, Porto has something for everyone.


4. Stunning Scenery and Outdoor Activities

Porto is blessed with incredible natural beauty, from its beaches along the Atlantic Ocean to the rolling hills of the Douro Valley. Whether you want to relax by the beach, hike through the nearby hills, or take a boat ride along the Douro River, the options for outdoor activities are endless. The mild climate also makes Porto a great place to explore year-round, with pleasant temperatures that encourage an active lifestyle.


5. Accessible Travel Opportunities

Porto is an ideal base for exploring both Portugal and beyond. The city is well-connected with an international airport that offers flights to destinations across Europe and beyond. It’s also a great starting point for traveling to nearby cities like Lisbon, Braga, and Coimbra. For students interested in exploring Portuguese culture, the city is the gateway to the Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and port wine production.


6. Language and Integration

While Portuguese is the official language, Porto is known for its open-minded locals and high level of English proficiency, making it easier for exchange students to settle in. The opportunity to learn and practice Portuguese, however, is an added bonus that can enhance the experience and help students integrate into the local culture. Many universities in Porto also offer language courses for international students, making it easy to pick up the basics or improve existing language skills.


7. Welcoming Community

The people of Porto are known for their warmth and friendliness, and exchange students often remark on how easy it is to feel at home in the city. Whether it’s a local inviting you into their café or fellow students making you feel welcome at events, Porto offers a strong sense of community that makes it easy to adjust and form meaningful connections during your exchange experience.


Conclusion

Porto is a hidden gem for exchange students, offering a combination of affordability, cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to dive into history, improve your language skills, explore the outdoors, or simply enjoy the vibrant student life, Porto has something to offer. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a truly memorable and enriching exchange experience.

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