Hello everyone! With only one week left till the Accommodation Fair (and if you have not heard of the Fair yet then have a read of last week’s blog post which explains all about it), this week felt like a good time to take a look at the paperwork involved in getting your new home secured. Looking out at the chilly, windy and wet weather we are having at the moment, I suggest you find somewhere warm and comfy and take a few minutes to have a read.
Preparation is the key (…to your new home!)
It is really important to make sure you understand your accommodation contract and what you are committing yourself to. Skimming over the terms and conditions now and thinking that they must be fine will not be of help later if you discover there is a problem with your accommodation or with making payments.
- Are you signing an individual or joint tenancy agreement?
- What would happen with the rent payments if one of your flatmates suddenly dropped out of the University?
- What does the landlord commit to doing and what is your responsibility?
- Is there any outdoor space? If so, who is responsible for maintaining it?
- Are bills included?
- How frequently do you have to pay and do these payments align with your student maintenance loan?
There are lots more aspects to think about so it really is wise to take time and read the contract carefully and clarify anything that you are not sure about. The Students’ Guild Advice have created this useful Housing Contract Guide which contains plenty of really useful practical advice on what to look out for in an accommodation contract along with a myth buster, so be sure to take a look at it before you sign that dotted line.
If you have any specific questions about your contract you can get in touch with the Guild Advice by emailing into them via advice@exeterguild.com or pop in to their Advice Surgery which runs Tuesday and Thursday, 11:00 to 13:00 (term time only) at their office on Level 1, Forum, Streatham Campus. Please note that this service is for general guidance on your rights and responsibilities and is not legal advice.
Not started your accommodation search yet?
Don’t panic! The Accommodation team have been really busy this week putting new adverts live on Studentpad. We seem to be getting new adverts through each day, so why not think about creating an account and you will then be alerted to new properties which match your requirements? The Studentpad Message Board is also a great tool if you are looking to join a houseshare, or are looking for someone to take on a remaining room in a property you have already found.
The Accommodation Team will be available at the Accommodation Fair 2019 which is on Thursday 28 November from 11:00 to 14:00 in the Great Hall, Streatham Campus, so please do come and have a chat with us.
I hope you have a great week!
Accommodation Meridith