Looking to Rent a House? Kelly Smith 50 Park Place, Cathays Park Campus 2 nd Floor, Cardigan House, Heath Park Campus

Looking to rent a house? Moving in to rented accommodation with friends can seem very exciting but also a little daunting. Before you embark on the adventure why not take a little advice and guidance on the matter!

The Big Issues Who to live with? Where to live? When to look?

How to find a house? Letting Agents Private Landlords

What to look for? Arrange a viewing you can all attend Establish what you expect Arrive early and check the outside – security, windows, security checklist Don’t be afraid to question current tenants Use the checklist provided by Students Union Advice Centre or our checklist available here.

To Sign or not to Sign! True or False? You should pay the bond before signing contract FALSE You have to give 10 post dated cheques for rent FALSE Individual tenancies are better than joint ones TRUE I may need a guarantor TRUE

True or False? I have to pay an admin fee of £100 FALSE I should have a copy of the inventory when I move in TRUE

Tenancy Deposit Schemes In April 2007 Government introduced new TDS Effects all private landlords with assured short hold tenancies To protect your deposit/ bond 2 schemes Custodial Scheme / Insurance Based

Bond- don’t be shaken and stirred! Retain receipt for your bond/ info on TDS Check inventory and keep a copy Settle all bills and ensure house is clean At end of tenancy write to landlord requesting the return of your bond The landlord must give details of what any amount is being withheld for Action can be taken in Small Claims court if not settled through TDS -Dispute Resolution Service Support available from The Student Support Centre or Students Union Advice Centre

Bills, bills and more bills! Check what utilities, if any, are included in your rent Find out who your utility suppliers are Take meter readings Ensure all names are on the bill Decide how you’ll pay Full time students are exempt from council tax If you have problems making bill payments let the company know Agree between yourselves when the heating is used before the bill arrives!

Safety First All houses must have a current Gas Safety Certificate Landlords responsible for electrical safety You should have a clear, safe and uncluttered exit in case of fire Smoke detectors should be installed

Repairs The landlord is responsible for maintenance and repair of the structure and exterior of the property – responsibility for other repair depends on what is agreed 1.Make a formal request in writing for work to be done 2.Give the landlord a reasonable period in which to do it 3.If it is still not done come and seek advice from the Student Support Centre or Students Union Advice Centre

Your responsibilities To the landlord Must not deliberately damage property Must behave in a ‘tenant like’ manner Must pay rent on time To your housemates Be considerate to each others needs Ensure you can pay towards the bills Ensure communal areas are respected To the community Not all residents in local area are students So be considerate You may find yourself subject to the University Disciplinary rules

Your Rights Right to quiet enjoyment Landlord has the right to inspect the premises however with your consent at reasonable time and must give 24 hours notice Free from harassment The landlord can not harass you in anyway. The landlord can not withdraw electricity or gas supply to evict you. Harassment is a criminal offence

Can I change my mind? In short No! When you sign a contract it will be for a fixed term (usually ten months) You are legally bound to pay rent for those ten months You may be allowed to leave if you find a replacement tenant to take your place If you leave before the end of the time your guarantor will be liable for your rent You can be taken to the Small Claims Court for outstanding rent

Good Luck! Try and keep these points in mind Don’t be over anxious, it can all run smoothly If you do encounter problems help is at hand from The Student Support Centre, or The Students Union Advice Centre

The Student Support Centre 50 Park Place Cathays 2 nd Floor Cardigan House Heath Park Drop in 11-4pm