Here are some other areas of information that students may need to know about. This information applies to students in both UCS Accommodation and the private rental market, unless otherwise stated.
Tenancy agreements
Once a tenancy agreement is signed, it is a legally binding document. This means a student has agreed to pay the rent for the full length of the contract. Most tenancy agreements used today are Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST). This type of tenancy agreement cannot be cancelled partway through the agreed period unless there is a break clause or a breach of contract. This means, even if the student leaves the property before the end of their tenancy agreement, they will still be liable to pay the rent until the end date stated. Remember: students should not sign anything until they are certain they understand and agree to all of the terms included. If they are not sure on any of the terms, get assistance before signing. If they leave their accommodation part of the way through their tenancy agreement they may be asked to find a suitable replacement before they are released from paying the remainder of the tenancy length. If this happens, they should contact the Accommodation Office straight away for assistance.
Deposits
Most landlords will require a deposit (usually 4 weeks or 1 month's rent) plus a month's rent in advance when the student moves into the property. 4 weeks rent will usually be held as a deposit which can be used to pay for any breakages or damage to the property during their stay. At the end of the tenancy, the deposit will be returned less any costs for repairs. The deposit cannot be used as the last month's rent payment.
Before the first student finance payment can be made to the student, they must attend the university to have their payment authorised. It will then take a short while for the finance to be processed and arrive in their bank account. It is reasonable to assume that the student will have moved into their accommodation before they can obtain the authorisation, so it is wise to save for a deposit/advanced rent over the summer months. If the student is able to save enough for the deposit and first month's rent, this will not only keep their landlord happy, but will mean more money stays in their pocket when their finance does come through.
Inventory
Landlords should provide tenants with an inventory, this should detail all of the items supplied by the landlord in the property and the condition of those items and the property itself. If the student notices any damages, such as chipped or marked walls or surfaces or broken items, it must be recorded on the inventory. The inventory should then be signed by both the tenant and the landlord, and the tenant should be provided with a copy. The Accommodation Office recommends students also take a photographic record of anything that is not as stated in the inventory, including the date the photograph was taken wherever possible. At the end of the tenancy, the tenant and landlord should revisit the inventory when inspecting the property to see if any deductions are required from the deposit to pay for damages (excluding fair wear and tear) that the student is responsible for. Having the photographic record from the beginning of the tenancy could prove useful to the student if they feel the landlord is charging them for something that was in that condition when they moved in.
TV Licence
Where a TV is provided in UCS Accommodation communal rooms, a TV licence will also be provided to cover the unit. This will not cover any additional TVs students may bring with them. If they bring a TV, or other device they can watch TV as it is being broadcast, including use of IPTV in Athena Hall, they will need their own TV licence. The TV Licensing Company knows where student accommodation is and cracks down on students, as many do not bother with a licence. The annual cost for a colour TV licence is £145.50 (as at Nov 2010), the fine for being caught watching TV without a licence can be up to £1,000 and a court appearance. Don't take the chance!
Council Tax
Full-time students are exempt from paying council tax. The Accommodation Office will arrange a council tax exemption for full-time students living in UCS Accredited Accommodation. It is therefore very important to keep the Accommodation Office up to date with any living arrangements. Students living in privately rented accommodation will be able to collect an exemption form from the Infozone, which should be given to their landlord or directly to the council. Part-time students will still need to pay council tax, bear this in mind when searching for accommodation as it could influence the type of properties available. If they decide to rent privately students should check with their landlord to see if he will include a payment for council tax within the rental costs. If any of their housemates are not full-time students, they could find they are still asked to contribute towards council tax payments.