Kolkata Accommodation

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. Normally, there are no water or power problems in Kolkata, but you should check out the area. It is also advisable to check that your area has backup power. Avoid apartments on top floors because they are unbearable in the summer heat.

Depending on your preferences, you may want to find a place close to a school, church, transportation, shopping, medical facilities, work and, most importantly, an area that is secure and safe. Due to traffic problems, it is recommended that you avoid properties located next to temples or schools. They will also contribute greatly to noise. Choosing the right place to live is essential to having a pleasant and safe stay in Kolkata.
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What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
Most expats prefer to live close to schools and work. The neighborhoods listed below are very popular to expats because they are full of other expat residents. This makes the neighborhoods appealing because they will be sharing similar experiences. The neighborhoods listed below are also the most affluent and well-connected places in Kolkata. Typically accommodations are available either in bungalows or in apartments. Popular neighborhoods for expats:

  • New Alipore/Alipore
  • Ballygunge Place
  • Sunny Park
  • Saltlake
  • Hastings
  • Judge’s Court Road
  • Loudon Street
  • Rawdon Street
  • Little Russel Street/Russel Street

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Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Most expatriates prefer to rent.
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Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?
When renting an apartment, it is expected that you pay for three months' rent in advance, and a security deposit equivalent to three months' rent. This means you would have a total of six months' rent prior to moving in.
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Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
Normally, utilities are in addition to rental prices. Very seldom are they included in the rent.
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Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?
For the most part, Kolkata is a safe city. However, as with most cities, some areas are more desirable than others. This is usually evident in the cost of the accommodation. Before deciding where to live, make sure that the house or apartment has door and window protection and a reliable alarm system.
Change all locks on doors and replace with new ones. It is also prudent to always lock your house and car when you are not there.

Also, it is recommended that you check out local police reports before deciding on an area to live.
These reports provide factual information on types of crimes and how often they occur. This will most likely be a determining factor on whether you choose to live in a certain neighborhood or not. If you choose to live in a bungalow, it is recommended that you hire security services from a reputable security agency.
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I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
Electricity supply in Kolkata is generally very good in comparison with other Indian cities. Blackouts and brownouts (load shedding) are infrequent and the supply is fairly consistent.
The electric current for Kolkata is 230 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50 hertz of power.

Not all free-standing houses come with appliances. For an independent house, please note that you would need a generator (at least 1 guard.)
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Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
The process of searching for suitable accommodation could take some time and can be frustrating.
Ideally, the process should be started a few weeks before the start of the assignment. A preview trip arranged through Crown Kolkata is highly recommended.

It is a common practice that the owners (landlords) clean, paint and repair your future residence prior to moving in. It also might be a good idea to try and negotiate with the owner to provide as many appliances (particularly air conditioners) as possible within the premises.

There are a few things you should do before taking possession of the premises. A round of thorough cleaning is a must. It would also be advisable to have the entire premises treated by a pest control company before moving in. All electrical points and appliances should be checked for functionality.
Gas is supplied in cylinders or bottles through a neighborhood dealer. It is advisable that you keep one extra cylinder on hand as backup.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.