As rent prices increase and utility bill laws change, it's more important than ever to make sure you're clear on your contract.

 

The following advice lists the important factors you need to consider before searching for housing options.

 

Have you considered...

 

Your legal obligations

 

You should be aware of your obligations to a contract once it is signed. If you decide to rent from a private landlord or letting agency, you are entering a legally binding agreement between a tenant and a landlord. This means that neither the University or the Students’ Union are able to request the termination of a contact agreement, neither can they demand for repairs to be carried out and in some situations. We cannot contact your landlord or letting agency on your behalf. 
 
You are responsible for managing your housing conditions. However, the Students’ Union Advice Team are able to advise tenants on different steps that they can take in order to have repairs carried out or rectify any issues they may be facing.

 

University progression
 

Something to always keep in mind is university progression. As per the advice above, once you have signed a contract you are legally bound to this agreement.

 

Every year, students rush into signing housing contracts without considering future progression implications. Every student is subject to their own individual experience at university and things happen which can be sudden and unforeseen which sometimes impact your ability to continue on your course. This can include interrupting studies, withdrawing from your studies, or being failed and withdrawn. If you leave university, you will still be obliged to your contract.

 

Your housemates

 

It is vital that you carefully consider who you are going to live with. You must be confident those who you decide to live with are going to be able to provide stability.

 

When thinking about who to live with, you should consider:

• Are they reliable?
• Will they pay their rent?
• Will they pay their share of bills?
• Will they provide a comfortable living environment?
• Will they clean up after themselves?
• Will they make lots of noise?

Don't rush into this decision. You shouldn't feel the pressure to sign a contract too soon. Remind your friends that you shouldn't rush, and make sure you're carefully considering your contract every step of the way. 

 

Deposit protection

 

Landlords are obliged to protect your deposit within 30 days of receiving it. Within these 30 days, you should be informed where your deposit is being protected and the scheme that is being used. You should receive something called prescribed information. This will provide you with a certificate and the knowledge of where your deposit is being held as well as information booklet which will advise on how to lodge a complaint should you face any issues. 

 

TV License

 

If you use a television to watch live TV (including via streaming services), or if you use BBC iPlayer catch-up service, you need a TV licence. This will incur an extra cross on top of your bills, if it is not included in your tenancy agreement.

 

You do not need a TV license to watch non-BBC catch-up services including ITV Hub, Netflix, and Channel 4. 

 

Energy bills

 

Does your contract include energy bills? Some will, some won't. Many are also subject to a fair use cap, meaning your energy usage is subject to allowance. Find out more about utility bills in our guide here.

 

Maintenance and facilities

 

Think about other physical housing issues, including the facilities available at the property. Are there enough bathrooms for all the tenants? Is there any hidden mould or damp? This type of issue often gets left unchecked. 

 

When viewing a house, you can use our Ready to Rent guide and checklist to tick off any issues you might spot. 

 

 

Download our Ready to Rent guide

Need a helping hand? Book an appointment with our Advice Team