Transcript Finding accommodation - session slides

Finding Accommodation
Abdullah Al Mamun
Student Accommodation Advisor
Contents
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Who am I?
What type of accommodation?
Location of accommodation
What bills to pay?
Signing a contract
Coping with problems
Know your rights
Contact details
What type of accommodation
•
•
•
•
•
Room in a shared house
Studio flats
Single bed apartment
Multi bed apartment
Furnished/un-furnished
Location of accommodation
• Walking/cycling distance
• Public transport in MK
• Own car and international license
The centre is generally the most expensive place to be
Best to either own a bike/car or live near a bus route
The further from campus you are the more you will pay
for transport (or the more tired you will be if you cycle!)
What bills to pay
• Electricity, water, gas , TV, Internet etc
• Check whether the quoted price includes bills - it all
adds up!
• If all householders are full-time students, you shouldn’t
have to pay Council Tax
Signing a contract
• Leases typically run for six or 12 months, can be
shorter
• Whoever signs the lease is responsible – read the
contract!
• Check if bills are included within rent
• How much deposit you need to pay? Is there any other
charge?
• Check about leaving early
• Is it furnished? Check the inventory carefully and
remember to take photos
• Proof of address/student status
Coping with problems
• Deal with the letting agent/landlord in the first instance
• If the issue is still unresolved, seek advice
• There are no new problems!
Know your rights
• If you’re confused about anything get in touch with the
Citizen’s Advice Bureau (citizensadvice.org.uk)
• A good idea to check letting agents are signed up to
the National Approved Letting Scheme
• It’s illegal for agents to charge for:
– putting your name on their list or taking your details
– providing a list of rental properties
Contact
Abdullah Al Mamun
[email protected]