finding accommodation abdullah al mamun student accommodation advisor
TRANSCRIPT
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 beBest to either own a bike/car or live near a bus routeThe 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
