An Idiots Guide to Student Lettings

Here's a step-by-step guide to student lettings:

1. Start Early: Begin your search for student accommodation well in advance, ideally a few months before your course starts. This will give you more options to choose from.
2. Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on rent, considering your student loans, part-time job income, and any financial support from family.
3. Location Matters: Consider the location of your university, campus, and proximity to amenities like grocery stores, public transportation, and social spaces when choosing your accommodation.
4. Housing Types: Understand the different types of student housing available, such as shared apartments, private studios or houses. Each has its pros and cons.
5. Housemates: If you're sharing a place, choose your housemates wisely. Ensure you can live with them harmoniously and that they are responsible regarding rent and bills.
6. Research Online: Use online platforms like university websites, student housing websites, and social media groups to find available properties. 
7. Inspect the Property: When you visit a property, inspect it thoroughly. Check for any damages, safety issues, and whether it's adequately furnished. Take pictures or videos for reference.
8. Contracts and Agreements: Read your tenancy agreement carefully. Understand the terms and conditions, including rent, deposit, and responsibilities. Don't hesitate to ask questions before signing.
9. Deposit: Be prepared to pay a security deposit, which is typically one months' rent. Ensure it's placed in a government-approved deposit protection scheme.
10. Bills and Utilities: Clarify which bills are included in your rent (e.g., water, electricity, internet) and which ones you'll need to pay separately. Budget accordingly.
11. Tenant's Insurance: Consider getting tenant's insurance to protect your belongings in case of theft, damage, or accidents.
12. Moving In: When you move in, document the property's condition with photos or a video to avoid disputes later on. Inform your landlord of any pre-existing issues.
13. Monthly Rent: Pay your rent on time to maintain a good relationship with your landlord. If you have issues, communicate with them promptly.
14. Repairs and Maintenance: Report any necessary repairs or maintenance to your landlord immediately. They are responsible for ensuring the property is safe and habitable.
15. Safety First: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures, such as fire exits and smoke alarms. Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your rental.
16. Respect Neighbors: Be mindful of your neighbors, especially when it comes to noise levels and other disturbances.
17. Moving Out: When it's time to leave, give your landlord proper notice as required by your contract. Ensure the property is in the same condition as when you moved in to receive your full deposit back.
18. Legal Rights: Familiarize yourself with your legal rights as a tenant, which may vary depending on your country or state. Seek legal advice if you face any issues.
19. Stay Informed: Stay updated with local rental laws and regulations, as they can change over time.

Remember, renting as a student can be a valuable learning experience, teaching you about responsibility, budgeting, and living independently. Don't hesitate to seek guidance from your university's housing office or student services if you have any questions or concerns.

Written by First 4 Lettings

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PERMITTED PAYMENTS

As well as paying the rent, you may also be required to make the following permitted payments:

1) Holding Deposit: Up to one week’s rental

2) Deposit: One month’s rental (5 weeks rental dependent on individual’s circumstances)

3) Payments for utilities (gas, electricity & water), communication services (telephone & broadband), Installation/Subscription of cable/satellite, TV licence and council tax

4) Default Fee (late payment of rent): If full Rent is not paid within 14 days or more of the Rent Due Date there will be a charge 3% plus the Bank of England base interest rate of the full rental amount until full payment is received

5) Default Fee (breach of tenancy agreement, any other permitted payments, under relevant legislation including contractual damages): For any breach of the tenancy agreement based on the reasonably incurred costs of the agent or landlord

6) Replacement of keys, fobs or other security devices

7) Default Fee (changes to the tenancy): An administrative charge of £50.00 or greater for any assignment, variation or novation of the tenancy agreement made at the tenant’s request (only if agreed by The Landlord and/or The Landlord’s Agent)

8) Payments in respect of early termination of a tenancy agreement at the tenant’s request


TENANT PROTECTION

First 4 Lettings is a member of Client Money Protect which is a client money protection scheme, and also a member of PRS (Property Redress Scheme), which is a redress scheme.