1. Finding Accommodation Abdullah Al Mamun Student Accommodation Advisor

2. 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

3. What type of accommodation Room in a shared house Studio flats Single bed apartment Multi bed apartment Furnished/un-furnished

4. 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!)

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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!

9. 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

10. Contact Abdullah Al Mamun student-accommodation-advisor@open.ac.uk