House Hunting Guide Our toolkit is an essential read before you sign on the dotted line! Contents Signing up early?
Signing up early? Think again! 3 Think again! Snug 4 - 5 Don’t believe the myth that there is a shortage of student housing in Sheffield -it’s not true! Explore Sheffield 6- 10 Unfortunately house hunting starts early in they cannot afford the new rent or have House hunting top tips 11 Sheffield, but that doesn’t have to be the changed their study plans. Once you have case. Despite what you may have heard, signed a tenancy agreement you are not there is actually a surplus of student usually able to change your mind and may What to look for in a house 12 - 15 property in Sheffield, so you’ll be able to find yourself having to pay the rent whether find student accommodation at any point you move in or not. Do not sign if you have not done the following... 16 in the year - so don’t panic, and take your time! Students who don’t start house hunting until the summer before they return Jessica’s story Understanding housing contracts 17 to University still secure good properties. We recommend that students wait until Essential Parts of a tenancy agreement 18 - 19 after the Students’ Union Housing Fair in “Just after I moved into my accommodation November before even considering signing in my first year, everyone was saying that up for a tenancy for the next academic year. we should look for a house for next year. Housing contracts definition of terms 20 - 22 We see many students each year that sign There was a buzz about finding houses for up very early, then change their minds a few next year, letting agents started advertising.I Before you sign on the dotted line 23 months later - usually because they have had just made friends with 5 other girls all fallen out with their friends or have realised in their first year and new to Hallam and we decided to share a house together. I thought Time to move in 24 it was early but everyone was talking about it so we started looking. We found a property Property inventory 25 - 27 House hunting can be daunting we liked, but not everyone went to view it. We made a decision and signed up for and a very stressful experience. a property to start the following July and Household bills 28 - 33 The safest way to find accommodation paid our deposits, luckily I had just received is through Sheffield Hallam University’s my student funding so I could afford the Time to settle in 34 Accommodation Services website. All deposit. However, after Christmas one of properties advertised are part of a scheme the girls I was moving in with, fell out with us and so I decided that I didn’t want to move Useful contacts 35 with Sheffield City Council called Snug. This means that they are inspected by Sheffield into the property. I went to the Students’ City Council before they are allowed to Union Advice Service for advice- they told You don’t really know someone until you live with them 36 - 37 advertise on the website. me what my rights were, but basically I could only get out of the contract if I could find Staying safe in your accomodation 38 For further information visit: a replacement tenant. As of yet I haven’t managed to do so and I am not looking shustudenthousing.co.uk/accommodation forward to moving in. I wish now that I didn’t Student Advice Centre 39 sign up so early.”
2 3 just come on board, which means it is a In time, we hope Snug will reduce, or property better than a non- Sheffield-wide scheme. even remove, the market opportunities Snug accredited property? for those landlords who aren’t willing to The property has been inspected by The Snug scheme aims to ensure that… meet their obligations. Sheffield City Council and meets the health and safety law. Your landlord Snug • Landlords are trustworthy and How many properties has agreed to meet health and safety accountable are Snug approved? legal requirements which includes the As of the start of 2018, there are 550 management of the property. • Housing is safe, secure, and of a Snug properties, with a total of nearly higher quality 14,000 bed spaces. This means that: What is Snug? • Accommodation is easy to find Where can I find Snug properties? • Your landlord should treat you in a Snug is a property inspection standard First and foremost, we encourage you fair manner that is awarded when homes meet the The majority of student landlords are to ALWAYS ask if the property is Snug required standard of property and professional and ensure that you pay approved when speaking to a landlord • You should be given a copy of your tenancy management, and the landlord fairly for a good house, but we are aware or letting agent. All the private sector tenancy agreement is considered ‘fit and proper’. These that there are some that are not. Snug is properties offered on the University’s standards are set by your Students’ a way to ensure that you can distinguish Accommodation Services website have • You should be given a copy of the gas Union, Sheffield Hallam University, and between landlords and agents who been accredited by Snug. That means safety certificate Sheffield City Council, to make sure comply with their responsibilities and you can be confident they’ve been you get more than just a roof over your those who do not. inspected by Sheffield City Council and • You should be given a non- head – you get a decent home. The comply with strict rules. emergency number and an University of Sheffield and the University Remember, though, it is the property emergency repairs number at the of Sheffield Students’ Union have also that is accredited, not the landlord. Why is a Snug accredited start of your tenancy.
The ONLY student accomodation we recommend!
4 5 Broomhall Highfield
Broomhall is a wonderfully interesting and vibrant community, home to a Highfield is a wonderful, residential community and Jessica Ennis-Hills’ huge range of different residents - old, young, student, non-student, and old stomping ground! Many students make their homes here whilst very culturally diverse. Stretching from Collegiate Crescent right into the at University, and it is just a stone’s throw to both Collegiate and City city centre’s Devonshire Quarter, there are plenty of ways for you to get Campuses! Highfield is also home to Sheffield United FC, and as one of the involved with your amazing local community. oldest professional football grounds in the world, Bramall Lane is a must see! Things to look out for Things to look out for
1. Broomhall Centre - The Broomhall Centre is central to life in the Highfield sits right on the edge of London Road, so it’s surrounded by lots of area for many residents, and offers a full 7-day programme of exciting businesses and places to go to, but right on your doorstep you have: activities and events. From live music, festivals and volunteering opportunities, make sure you pay the Centre a visit! 2. Sunnybank Nature Reserve - a real hidden treasure in the heart of 1. St Mary’s Church - more than just a church, this beautiful building is Broomhall, this tiny nature reserve is a great place to relax, study or also a café, community centre and regularly home to vintage and craft even explore the wildlife! markets! 3. Unity Gym - much more than just a gym, Unity Gym uses sports, 2. Portland Works - the birthplace of stainless steel, this Grade II* listed fitness classes and other events to bring all Broomhall residents building is steeped in history, and holds regular open days and events. A together in a fun & friendly environment. It’s a fantastic, welcoming real historical and cultural gem! place to help you meet new people! 3. Highfield Library- A great local library in a fantastic location. If you fancy a change from Adsetts or the Learning Centre and want to study a little closer One for the calendar to home, why not work in Highfield’s very own learning Broomhall Gala is a fantastic space? day, bringing together the whole community to celebrate Broomhall and its residents - games, stalls, activities, great One for the calendar food, music & dance, it’s all here! St Mary’s Church Vintage & Craft Markets - taking place every few months, these are a great day out with over 45 stalls, great food and an even better atmosphere!
7 Hunters Bar Sharrow
Based right at the end of Eccelsall Road the Hunter’s Bar community is a Sharrow is a vibrant, multi-cultural community close to the hustle and vibrant and friendly area. From the quiet beauty of Endcliffe Park to the bustle of London Road and only minutes from the City Centre. It has busy local stores and buzz of the local bars, there’s plenty to do and see a really friendly and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of amazing, around the area! independent local businesses and events going on! Make sure you check out Sheffield’s Antiques Quarter around Abbeydale Road for some incredible vintage bargains! Things to look out for Things to look out for 1. ECCO- The Endcliffe Corner Community Organisation are an active community group in the area and are always keen Amongst all the great eateries on London Road for students to get involved! Photography days, pub nights, and the fantastic shops, keep an eye out for: cinema outings - there’s something for everyone! 2. Endcliffe Park - One of Sheffield’s 80 public parks, this is a 1. Sharrow Community Forum - a great little community centre with great place to exercise and even better for a quiet walk or a fab café, a huge range of daytime and evening classes, events and a picnic with your housemates! Stroll by the River Porter & volunteering opportunities! check out the wildlife. 2. Mount Pleasant Park - one of Sheffield’s 80 public parks, this 3. Botanical Gardens - 19 acres of beautifully landscaped beautiful green space is a great place to play sport, have a picnic or gardens, home to 4000 types of plants, three ponds just relax! and a bear pit! All free and within a minute’s 3. Sheffield Chinese Community Centre - Here to support the local walk from Ecclesall Road, this is not to Chinese community; the centre hosts be missed! a massive variety of events and opportunities for all! One for the calendar One for the calendar The Sheffield Hallam Park Run is a free 5k run held Sharrow Lantern Carnival each Saturday morning takes places one night each at Endcliffe Park. All are Spring, illuminating the whole welcome regardless of community as thousands of athletic ability, a great way people parade their wonderful to get some fresh air and home-made lanterns from meet people, then grab a Mount Pleasant Park to the coffee in the Endcliffe Park General Cemetery for a huge Café afterwards! party!
9 Sharrow Vale House hunting top tips... There are a number of things that you can do to make sure you get the best house possible for your group. Sharrow Vale is a busy, bustling community close to Eccelsall Road where local business is key! There’s plenty of independent stores, boutiques and amazing restaurants along Sharrow Vale Road, and a fantastic mixture of students and non-student residents in the area. Sharrow Vale is a fabulously Work out who you Explore areas of lively and quirky place to live! want to live with. Sheffield to decide where you want to live. Things to look out for Think about this carefully as you will end up living together for a whole year. If there are things that are irritating now, a year Walk around different areas at different If you can tear your eyes from the great places to eat on can be a long time. times of day and make sure you like the Sharrow Vale Road, then you should take a look for: atmosphere and feel safe. Think about if you want to live in Sheffield City 1. Sharrow Vale Community Association - This community group meet 1 centre next to bars and clubs or would regularly to discuss the events and issues in the area; head to one of you prefer a quieter area. Take into their meetings! You might even be able to help planning the Sharrow Vale Work out how much you consideration the distance between Market. can afford (don’t forget gas, the property and the campus you are 2. Sheffield General Cemetery - one of Sheffield’s hidden cultural gems, based on but also check how far it is to this is a MUST SEE for all lovers of history, wildlife and architecture. Tours electricity etc.) the supermarkets, gym etc., as this can available on the first Sunday of each month. impact on your expenses. 3. Sharrow Vale Road - fantastic, cheap This is a common mistake that many 2 independent food stores, boutique students make. For most students, their shopping, street art, amazing pubs & maintenance loan does not usually cover Discuss what you bars, what’s not to love? the rent. Make sure that everyone in the group decides a budget and sticks to it. want in the property. Remember to factor in the bills and living costs! Not everything will be possible but your One for the calendar group could draw up a list of essentials TIP: If you are in halls your internet is and desirables. normally already sorted. In the private Sharrow Vale Market is a food rented sector some houses have this, lovers’ paradise with loads TIP: The general standard of student some do not. Internet is relatively easy of street food stalls as well housing in Sheffield is very good so you to install so don’t let this put you off a as craft sellers taking over should easily find a property of excellent property if it isn’t there already. Sharrow Vale Road. Taking quality around your budget. place every few months, this is definitely an event to watch 3 4 out for! Use your common sense! If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
11 Remember the condition of the property may give you an indication of the response to any repairs requests. What to look ABOUT THE HOUSE NOTES: for in a house 1. Address of the property
2. Name of the landlord and contact number KITCHEN NOTES: 3. Is the property in a good state of repair? 1. Is there running hot and cold water? 4. Do the windows shut properly? 2. Do the cooker and fridge appear to be in safe working order? 5. Are they likely to leak? 3. Is there enough work and cupboard space? 6. Are the guttering and roof tiles in good condition? 4. Are cleaning and cooking utensils provided? 7. Do the doors lock properly? 5. Are there any fire extinguishers or fire blankets? 8. Is there a communal area? BATHROOM NOTES: ALL ROOMS NOTES: 1. Is there any damp or mould? 1. Are there any loose wires or dangerous looking fittings? 2. Do the taps work? 2. Does the furniture comply with fire regulations? 3. Does the toilet flush? 3. Is there enough furniture? 4. Does the shower curtain/door stop the 4. Are there adequate escapes from a fire? water leaking on to the floor?
5. Does the house have central heating? BILLS NOTES:
6. If there is central heating, does the thermostat work? 1. Are the bills to be paid by the tenants?
7. If there is no central heating, what heating is provided? 2. How much are the bills likely to be?
8. If gas or electric, do the heaters work? 3. Are the bills to be paid quarterly?
9. Are there any smoke detectors? 4. Are there any card/key meters?
12 13 RENT AND CONTRACT NOTES: Zeddy’s story I didn’t know what to do when our housing house which we would not have known 1. How much is the rent? agents weren’t being co-operative, about otherwise). weren’t providing us with the services 2. When and how is it to be paid? we were paying for and had generally not Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Advice treated us in a professional manner. Service supported us in our decisions 3. Is the rent paid separately or as a group? and ensured we could re-open our case Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Advice when we needed to appreciating that as 4. How long is the contract for? Centre gave us the support we were students in our final year we were already looking for, reassured us of our rights, having a stressful and busy time so introduced us to new ways of seeking struggled to keep on top of it all. 5. How much is the deposit? help (ringing the council, how to write to our landlord, how and in what way to They also supported us in liaising with the BEFORE MOVING IN NOTES: appropriately tackle our issues, ensuring local MP, in order to promote an effective we have appropriate licences for our change for all students with such issues. 1. Have you seen a Gas Safety Certificate?
2. Is there an inventory?
3. Does the inventory state the condition of Right to Rent the items? You must prove that you have a right What your landlord must do 4. Will damaged items be repaired before you move in? to rent property in England if you’re starting a tenancy on or after 1 Your landlord (or letting agent) must: February 2016. You only have to prove 1. Check your original documents to GENERAL NOTES: your right to rent a property if you’re make sure you have the right to rent a renting it as your main home. property in England 1. Are there any restrictions to having visitors or posters? Exemptions: 2. Check the documents of any other adults living in the property 2. Is there a storage area for bikes? You won’t have to prove your right to rent if you live in: 3. Make copies of your documents and 3. Have you asked the previous tenants what keep them until you leave the property the property is like to live in? • student accommodation, eg halls of residence 4. Return your original documents to you once they’ve finished the check • accommodation provided by your TIP Check things carefully before committing yourself to a property. If there is employer as part of your job or training For a list of documents which are anything you are unhappy with or anything wrong with the property, inform the responsible: landlord in writing and keep a copy for yourself. • social housing www.gov.uk/government/publications/ • accommodation provided by the right-to-rent-document-checks-a-user- TIP council Remember to get any promises of repairs/ house improvements guide with promises of deadlines agreed in writing. • hostels and refuges Your landlord must not discriminate against • a care home, hospital or hospice you because of your nationality.
• accommodation with a lease of 7 or more years 14 15 DO NOT SIGN IF YOU Understanding HAVE NOT DONE THE housing contracts
FOLLOWING: Joint tenancies Individual tenancies
If a group of you are renting a If a group of you are living in Worked out if you can afford the rent and bills: property together and you are all a property together, but you Monthly rent per person + utility bills + food & living costs named on the contract, it is likely want to avoid the burdens of a = Monthly amount you are committing yourself to. that you will have what is called a joint tenancy, you could try and joint tenancy. negotiate individual tenancies of your rooms.This means that you Do not sign any tenancy until you have looked around the property. A joint tenancy means that you are each If possible try to look at 5 or 6 for comparison. You wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes, without liable for the whole rent of the premises are only liable for the rent for your trying them on first! and for any other obligations under the room but have access to all the tenancy. joint facilities of the property (i.e. bathroom, kitchen etc.). Read and understood the contract. For example: There is a group of four Get all tenants together at the same time to sign the contract. tenants on a joint tenancy for 9 months The disadvantages of this agreement Otherwise someone may pull out and you may be stuck with additional rent and living costs. and one tenant decides to leave in the sixth are that: month because they are fed up that no one else does any cleaning. Each joint tenant 1. If someone leaves, you do not have any Please ensure: that you get a copy of the contract to keep, so that you can refer to it if was paying an equal share of the rent. In say over who the leaving tenant or the anything goes wrong! this case, the landlord is entitled to collect landlord finds to replace them. the shortfall in rent from any or all of the It is your right to have a copy of your tenancy agreement. remaining tenants. These remaining tenants 2. Because you only have a tenancy of your may subsequently be able to recover this room, the landlord can have relatively money from the missing tenant. free access to the common parts of the property (i.e. bathroom, kitchen etc.). In the above circumstances, the best solution is for the leaving tenant to find 3. You may have to pay a separate licence someone to replace them. What to look for in a house: fee for each TV in the house.
Don’t panic! Don’t accept the first house you see – try and view several houses before you make a final decision because once you’ve signed a contract for a house it’s difficult to get out of it. X16 17 The tenants’ obligations Guarantors Looking after the property Some landlords may ask you to provide the Essential parts of a The contract will state that furnishings and name and address of a guarantor that is fittings should not be removed, damaged based in the UK. The guarantor is liable to or altered. pay your rent if you default on your rent tenancy agreement payments. Any disrepair should be reported to the landlord as soon as possible, as they are not Signed by ALL tenants legally obliged to carry out the repairs until Name and contact Address of property they have been notified of them. and landlord (or agent Tenants are expected to carry out minor for landlord) details of landlord being rented repairs such as changing a light bulb, etc. Under Section 48 of the Landlord and If you do not have a ‘joint’ contract, it is All tenants names need to be on the Tenant Act 1987, it requires that the tenant important that the contract should clearly Noise and nuisance agreement and each tenant should sign it. is provided with an address where notices state which room you are renting, e.g. Most contracts will have a clause prohibiting This is very important, when signing up for may be served on the landlord. If the “the ground floor bedroom plus use of the excessive noise especially between a property, as someone may decide not to information is not provided on the tenancy communal areas”(if it doesn’t show this, 11pm and 7am. move into the property (especially when agreement, ask for the information then ask for it to be added to the contract). Permitting Access to the Landlord students sign up approx. 9 months before in writing. You may have to allow your landlord/agent/ the start of the tenancy). Rent and how it workmen to enter the property to carry out repairs, show prospective tenants round or The landlord All the tenants’ names to inspect the house. However, this should When the agreement names 2 or more is to be paid This is the person who OWNS the property. £XXX per month/term payable on DD/MM/YY be at reasonable hours and with at least 24 You can find out who this is by doing a individuals as tenants then it is a joint hours’ notice (except in emergencies) tenancy. This means that tenants are jointly Many students pay their rent termly in search on the Land Registry. It costs £3 to renting the whole house as a group and line with when they receive their student Other Clauses do a search and is well worth the money. A contract is a record of agreement made legally each tenant can be held responsible funding, however, you could ask to pay your Go to www.landregistry.gov.uk then click for the whole rent and not just their own rent on a monthly basis if it suits you better. between you and your landlord, which on ‘find a property’. From this you can also share of it. This may happen if one tenant Please ensure that you plan to make your means you can ask your landlord to add find out if the property has a mortgage on is unable to pay their share of the rent or first rent instalment, as you may not receive or delete clauses. However, the contract it. Ask if the mortgage company know about leaves the tenancy early. your funding on time. cannot override your statutory rights, even the tenancy. if it is written in the contract. Clauses which are too prescriptive (e.g. preventing Length of agreement Landlord’s obligations overnight stays by guests or you must The letting agent (normally 12 months) Carry out repairs for which liability is hoover up 3 times a week) are likely to Letting agents are usually the company that imposed under Section 11 of the Landlord be ‘unfair terms’ and are unlikely to be advertises the property on the landlord’s A Fixed term of XX months starting and Tenant Act 1985 enforceable in a court of law. behalf. on DD/MM/YY to DD/MM/YY A landlord is legally required to carry out They may also: This is normally for a fixed term and is repairs on the structure of the property as Deposit • Collect rent, arrange repairs, take & repay the period that the landlord has agreed well as the plumbing, sanitary conveniences If you have an Assured Shorthold Tenancy the deposit. to temporarily ‘give’ the property to the and installations such as electrical wiring (most students do) your deposit must be tenant. In return the tenant has to pay and gas piping. How much they are involved depends rent. Unless the contract contains a ‘break secured in a tenancy deposit scheme. Your on the agreement they have with the Allow the tenants to quietly possess and clause’ then neither party can get out of landlord legally has to secure your deposit landlord. Letting agents and estate agents enjoy the property without unnecessary or the contract before the end of the fixed within 30 days of receiving it and they must legally have to sign up with a property unwarranted interference. term, unless it is agreed between you and provide you with details of the scheme it redress scheme so check that the agent is the landlord. Quiet enjoyment is one of the fundamental is secured in (also known as “prescribed registered with a scheme. information”). If your deposit is not secured terms of a tenancy; you have the right The role of an independent redress scheme then you can apply to county court for to live undisturbed in your home. Your is to provide fair and reasonable resolutions compensation of between 1 and 3 times the landlord/agent must legally give you at to disputes. least 24hours’ notice of any visits to your amount of your deposit. property. Remember: The letting agent works for the landlord NOT for the tenants. 18 19 TERM DEFINITION Housing contracts Describes criminal offences which, for example, may be alleged Discrimination with reference to gender, race, employment or disability laws as current at any time. - definition of terms Terms that are not unreasonable to either party to an Fair Terms Agreement and do not breach statutory regulations – see also Unfair Terms. Tenancy agreements will feature a variety of General Day to day repairs – keeping the property free from draught words that may at first seem very confusing. Maintenance and water-tight. Clean, structurally stable, free from disrepair, infestation and Below are some of the most common terms, along with brief definitions – if you are unsure Habitable dampness or other factors which could damage your health. about anything please seek further advice from the Student Advice Centre in the HUBS. The use of threats or violence to achieve an aim. It is a criminal Harassment offence for a Landlord or Agent to harass a Tenant. TERM DEFINITION House in Multiple Any house occupied by five or more occupants requires a Alterations Physical changes to a property. Occupation (HMO) licence from your local council. A payment by a Local Authority either to the Landlord, the Arrears Rent payments lawfully due that have not been paid. Housing Benefit Managing Agent or direct to the Tenant, to assist with the Tenant’s payment of rent. The disposal or transfer of a tenancy to another person. Assignment An obligation prescribed by law not necessarily written and Implied Obligation To transfer one’s rights, interest or title in a property to recorded in a tenancy agreement. Assign another person. Organised list of the contents of a property - see Inventory Schedules of Condition. Assured Shorthold A form of Agreement that does not guarantee long term security but allows the Landlord to reclaim the property at the If you share a property with others and all your names are Tenancy end of the term. At present most tenancies are in this form. on one tenancy agreement you are likely to be Joint Tenants Failure to carry out obligation/s as set out in a formal Joint and Several and the responsibility or liability for rent, rent arrears and any Breach of Contract Agreement. Liability damage will be shared jointly between you all. If one person leaves the house the landlord can expect the remaining Tenants Significant change in the use of a property as defined by Town to pay any outstanding rent which may result. Change of Use and Country Planning legislation. An owner of the freehold of a property who lets the property Independent companies employed to provide goods and Landlord/lady to someone else. Contractors services e.g. carrying out repairs on a property. Legally bound duty that an individual is required to undertake in A document setting out a formal Agreement between two or Legal Obligation order to fulfil the rules as set in law. Contract more parties. Process of arrangement between Landlord and Tenant and Letting commitment to a tenancy agreement. Covenant An obligation undertaken by a party to a tenancy agreement. Agreement Informal attempts of a third party to bring about the settlement Cyclical Maintenance work necessary at regular, pre-determined and Mediation of a dispute between parties to a contract. Maintenance repeating times, e.g. decoration to the outside of a property. In order to protect tenants, the Housing Acts give clear Legislation regarding data records held both electronically and Overcrowding guidelines on what may be interpreted as overcrowded Data Protection physically by an organisation. residential accommodation. Tenant’s money paid by Tenants under a tenancy. This is When a fixed term agreement expires and the landlord has normally held as security against damage to the property agreed that tenants can continue in a property but no further Deposit and will be repaid at the end of the tenancy provided that Periodic Tenancy fixed term agreement is issued the tenancy becomes periodic the tenant has adhered to their obligations as set out in their in that either party may give two months' notice before tenancy agreement – see also Tenancy Deposit Scheme. vacating (or requesting vacation) of the property. 20 21 TERM DEFINITION Before you sign on The control of property. Various factors will indicate Possession who is in possession of a property at any given time. A general visual tour of the property – not a survey. the dotted line... Property Inspection Landlords will often carry these out every three months, and must give a minimum of 24 hours' notice in writing. The common law right of a Tenant to possession and While the majority of landlords are honest, some may enjoyment of his tenancy without physical interference Quiet Enjoyment by his Landlord or Landlord’s Agent; the Tenant’s right to not be honourable. It’s in your best interests to read damages for significant breach of this right. all the fine print and be cautious. The process of agreeing a new rent between the parties, governed by legislation and contract law. Remember they are trying to sell you a service! Rent Reviews This is subject to a Notice period or defined timescale intended to allow preparation for change. • Look into the legal aspects refund. A Landlord who is ordinarily living within the property of renting Resident Landlord being rented. What are your landlord’s responsibilities Do not allow a landlord to rush Organised list of the state and condition of a property Schedule of Condition and what are yours? Check out the you into signing a contract at a specified date. following website for more information: Appliances for the heating of an internal area of It is reasonable for the landlord to allow Space Heating www.communities.gov.uk/publications/ a building. housing/assuredassuredtenants you 24 hours to read and check the Notices as provided in law requiring action by those contract before signing it. Under the Statutory Notices who receive them or send them. • Never sign anything you don’t Snug scheme- landlords have agreed to allow their tenants time to do this. Obligations required by law to be carried out. understand Statutory Requirement/ For example, minimum Health and Safety standards Obligation exist in law for the regulation of rented property. Take your time and read the contract • Negotiate properly and make notes of anything you - Although the academic year runs for A right given by statute law of the land and which don’t understand. Then bring it to the Statutory Right cannot be varied or overridden by contract. about nine months, you may be asked Advice Centre for checking. to commit to a 12 month tenancy Statutory Tenancies Tenancies created or maintained in law. agreement. You could use this point to • Seek advice about what negotiate a reduced rate of rent while A tenancy held from a superior tenancy but not direct you’re signing you aren’t occupying the property. Sub-Letting from the freeholder. Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Advice - Ask the landlord/ letting agent if you The law that applies to all such matters including the Service is there to help you and will offer want any amendments making to the Supply of Goods and contract between Landlord and Agent for rented a free contract checking service so you contract if you are not happy with it. Services Act 1982 property. can be happy that the contract you sign Ask for all “promises” of work to be All deposits taken for Assured Shorthold Tenancies is fair. done and put in writing, specifying must be placed into one of three government approved deadlines. schemes. If there is a dispute at the end of the tenancy, • Do not pay any money before you Tenancy Deposit Scheme an Alternative Resolution Service will mediate (free If the landlord is not willing to do so,
of charge) to resolve the dispute and ensure a fair sign the agreement then don’t sign! outcome for both parties. No monies for tenancy deposits or rent should be demanded prior to the signing The process of extending or renewing an existing and exchange of any tenancy agreement. • Google Tenancy Renewal tenancy for a further specified period of time, at terms to be agreed between the parties to the contract. Reservation deposits can be accepted Google the landlord and the property to see if there is any negative feedback, Terms that are unreasonable to any - or all - parties to providing they are small but refundable Unfair Terms an agreement and may breach statutory regulations. if the landlord withdraws. You should which might help with your decision. ask for a receipt stating clearly what this money is for and the grounds for a 22 ! 2323 Time to move in! Property inventory Before you start unpacking make sure you do the following: PROPERTY ADDRESS: ELECTRICITY READING: START DATE: / / FINISH DATE: / /
GAS READING: START DATE: / / FINISH DATE: / / Fill out the inventory Make a list of any repairs GAS SAFETY CERTIFICATE NUMBER: EXPIRY DATE: that need to be carried out • Include marks on the wall. • Specify which room and where in the and put IN WRITING to the LIVING / DINING ROOM room the problem is. landlord/letting agent Item Description/condition Item Description/condition • Add details of blue-tack marks on the walls, stains on the carpet or • Ask the landlord to agree to a timeline Door(s) Windows furniture etc. of when the repairs will be carried out Walls Curtains • Be very, very accurate on the and add this to the list. inventory as it will be your main proof • Ask the landlord/agent to sign the list Ceiling Sofa /suite of the condition of the house when • Give the landlord/agent a copy and you moved in, and will help you get Light fitting/ keep one for your records. Carpet your deposit back. lampshades Heating appliance Furniture
Internet TV Take photos of the property Find the utility meters and connection make a note of the readings • Date stamp the photos. KITCHEN • Take photos even if the room/ • If bills are included keep these for Item Description/condition Item Description/condition furniture etc. is in good condition and your records. keep them until you have got your • If not, contact the utility companies Door(s) Refrigerator deposit back. with the readings and set up a new account in ALL your names. Walls/ceiling Cupboards • Set up a new account in ALL your Floor Kettle names. Agree the inventory with the Washing Windows other tenants and landlord/ machine/dryer agent before signing it Heating appliance Lampshades Cooker Bucket/mop • Make sure you get a copy for your records - your inventory is the best Sinks/taps Iron evidence you will have to get your deposit back. Worktops Hoover
24 25 BATHROOM / TOILET BEDROOM - UPSTAIRS/DOWNSTAIRS - Item Description/condition Item Description/condition BACK/MIDDLE/FRONT
Door(s) Bath Item Description/condition Item Description/condition Door(s) Bed Ceiling/walls Shower Walls/ceiling Wardrobe Floor Toilet Floor/carpet Drawers Heating appliance Toilet roll holder Heating appliance Desk Windows Sink Windows Chair Curtains/blind Towel rail/hooks Lampshades/ Curtains Mirror Cupboards light fitting
HALL / MISCELLANEOUS Item Description/condition Item Description/condition Signatures
Door(s) Stairs/banister LANDLORD: DATE: Dustpan and Walls/ceiling brush TENANT: DATE:
Floor Ironing board DATE: Heating appliance Outside dustbin
Windows Garden DATE:
Curtains Smoke detectors
Please Note: This is an example of how an inventory could be set up; it will not cover every situation, as each property is different. However, it can be amended to suit your circumstances. If your landlord/ agent doesn’t give you an inventory, make your own and send a copy to your landlord/ agent within a few days of moving in. When compiling an inventory it is vital that you record the condition of every item in the property. We suggest using language such as new, fair, poor, scratched, stained, torn etc. If there are any items in poor condition, we suggest you take date stamped photos, and keep them until you have left the tenancy, just in case there are any disputes over getting your deposit back. 26 27 Water & sewerage Where a TV set is used only for computers, Household Bills Yorkshire Water supplies water to everyone electronic games or screening pre- in this area. Unless you are on a meter you recorded videos, a licence is not required. don’t have to get a reading for this. Contact However, the set must be incapable of receiving broadcast services; it is not simply You should check your tenancy agreement to clarify whether Yorkshire Water to set up an account or for any problems to do with your water at sufficient to remove the tuner. the tenants or the landlord are responsible for paying the bills. www.yorkshirewater.com Most tenancy agreements have a clause that says the tenants are Other typical bills responsible for gas, electricity, water rates, telephone, internet, TV Licence • Tel ephone TV Licence and Council Tax. • Living in Halls of Residence Most students tend to use their mobiles, The law applies to students. You need However, if there is a landline; ensure to be covered to watch or record live that each person is named on the bills. TV programmes on any channel, or to You can also request itemised billing to work out who has used what; however, You should notify the suppliers of gas, electricity, water, and telephone. download or watch BBC programs on iPlayer. This applies to any programmes there is usually a charge for this. You will have to fill in an application form indicating that you want a supply. and any provider you use. It’s illegal • Internet On this form you should list all the names of the people who will be for anyone to do this without being Most student households will need this, living in the property and ask all of them to sign the form. This is to avoid covered by a TV Licence. If you break but shop around for the best deals, make problems with liability (see section on liability for further information). the law, you risk prosecution and a fine sure that it is adequate for your usage, of up to £1,000 plus any legal costs Make sure you take a reading of the gas and electricity meters, don’t just opt for the cheapest option. and/or compensation you may be Internet charges are similar to telephone and make a note of it, and the day it was taken, and keep it in a safe place. ordered to pay. charges. If more than one person uses However, you may be covered by your your internet supply, you need to come Remember if you don’t do this straight away you could find yourself paying parents’ licence. If you think you are, for the previous tenants’ bills. to an agreement about how to pay the please check that all of the following bill. are true then inform TV licensing Check your first bill to ensure that it does not include the previous tenants’ You may prefer to set up an internet straight away: charges. / television / telephone package. It is - Your out-of-term address (parents’ important to research which provider is address) is covered by a TV Licence the cheapest. Remember that you may - AND you only use TV receiving need to compromise in order to find a equipment that is powered solely by its Typical Household Bills package that suits everyone in the house. own internal batteries - AND you have not connected it to an • Sky/cable TV Electricity & / Gas Electricity aerial or plugged it into the mains. This can be expensive, ask yourself if it For further information about getting a Many companies can now supply your To find out who your electricity supplier is is really necessary! Again shop around as TV licence, see the following link: gas or electricity or both. However with call 0845 330 0889. there are cheaper alternatives than Sky. www.tvlicensing.co.uk/check-if-you- choice often comes confusion. The first and Be careful to check how long you are need-one/for-your-home/students- easiest option to find out who supplies your signing up for as it may be for longer than aud1 electricity and gas if you’ve just moved to your tenancy agreement. a new property is to simply ask the letting • Council Tax agent, landlord or the previous tenant of • Sharing a house Full time students are exempt from your property. In order to find out who For students who share a house it will council tax. However, some students will your gas supplier is, call the Meter Point depend on what type of contract you be liable, if in doubt seek advice. Administration Service line on 0870 608 £ have signed. Joint tenants will need 1524. one licence between them to cover all sets in the house but tenants with an individual contract will need a separate licence to cover any TVs owned.
28 29 Contents Insurance Changing suppliers
Your landlord is responsible for insuring the premises and their belongings, but you are responsible for insuring your personal You might want to look into changing your supplier but you possessions. Generally Home Contents Insurance must be taken should check your tenancy agreement and discuss with your out for a year. landlord if this is possible first. Some landlords do not allow tenants to change their supplier. If you want to change and your Some students may be covered by their parents’ (Home Contents) insurance policy, which may provide cover for students studying away from home. It is worth checking if this applies to you, and landlord will not let you please contact us for further advice. what type of loss you can claim for.
Insurance terms explained: Things to look out for Before signing a contract, it is worth shopping around to compare prices, standing charges, and termination of contract fees, payment options, and Home Contents Insurance • Is your property insured only if it is the company’s policy if you cannot pay your bill. Check to make sure that This normally covers most items in the home. stolen from your home? Are you covered you are not tied in for a minimum period, which lasts longer than your For example, TV, stereo, clothing, jewellery outside the home for property such etc. It is important to check each policy as portable computers, stereos and tenancy agreement. Don’t sign up if you are unsure. to make sure that all your belongings are bicycles? To help you find a good deal, go to a comparison website such as covered. www.uswitch.com or www.energyhelpline.com • If items such as bicycles are stolen Personal Belongings Insurance from a communal hallway would you be If you are not sure who is your fuel supplier, This is cover for items which you take out of covered? you will need to contact: your home, this may include maximum pay- outs for items such as money, so make sure it • Some insurance companies will pay a covers you for your needs. maximum amount for certain items. For Gas: example, they may only pay a maximum Gas Meter helpline on 0870 608 1524 New for old policies of £200 for stereo equipment even if it (*This call will cost 7 per minute plus your Many insurance companies offer a new for old would cost you £500 to replace. phone company’s access charge.) policy. This means that if your old TV worth Electricity: about £20 is stolen, then they would pay the • Are you covered for accidental damage? Northern Power Grid on 0800 375 675 full amount needed to buy a new one of a Again check the small print. Water (Sheffield): similar make. Yorkshire Water on 0345 124 2424 • Are you covered if you are on holiday and Wear and Tear the property is vacant? Inclusive Bills Some policies will include a wear and tear Usually there is a cap on the usage, so if the clause for items such as clothing. In other • Are you covered out of term time? household goes over the cap you may have to words, they will not pay the full cost you paid pay the difference. for an item, and will deduct an amount for Remember to check the small print so that However, check that you are liable for the wear and tear. you are aware of what you are buying! usage by asking your landlord to show you meter readings and or the bill from the Discounts supplier. Many insurance companies will offer discounts if you have a burglar alarm, or if you live in a Home Watch Area. 31 Water & Sewerage • Set up a bank account together and save Liability for paying bills money each week/ month towards the Since 1999, you cannot have your water bills. supply disconnected because of arrears. However, water companies can pursue • Ask for an itemised telephone bill, which The person who requested the supply of gas and electricity will payment through the County Court. You shows the number dialled, the date and be liable to pay for it and their name will appear on the bill. should contact your supplier and look at cost of the call. This can help identify what ways of making payments to arrears and for proportion of the bill each tenant should future bills. Remember water is an on-going pay. Everyone named on the bill is liable not only for their agreed expense. You may be able to apply to the Yorkshire Water or Severn Trent Water Trust • Keep on top of the bills; try to pay them share but for the whole of the bill, provided they signed an for financial help. on time. Unpaid bills can affect your credit agreement to have a supply. rating! Telephone • If people move in and out of the property Your telephone may be disconnected if you during the tenancy, ask the utility This is known as “joint and several liability.” The supplier has the right to do not keep to agreed payments. Telephone company to change the names on the bills. pursue one or all the tenants named on the bill for the full amount. Joint companies can pursue payment through the Ensure that the outgoing tenant leaves a and several liability overrides any informal agreement between tenants. County Court. Whether or not the telephone forwarding address and money for their is a priority for you depends on your share of the bills. The incoming tenant If your name is not on a bill but you are asked to pay it, please contact the circumstances, but in most cases it is not a should be added to the names on the bill. Advice Service for further advice. priority debt. If you have problems paying the bill you could consider changing to incoming • Try to avoid estimated bills by providing calls only. If you have a mobile you may want regular meter readings. Problems can occur when only one tenant What will happen if I to consider changing to a cheaper tariff or to is named on the bill and the other tenants don’t pay the bills? ‘Pay As You Go’. do not pay their share. The other tenants If you receive high bills: sometimes escape payment because they are • Ensure that bills are based on actual and not named on the bill and as a result will not Will I be cut off? If your housemates won’t not estimated meter readings. Often be pursued by the utility company. This is why pay their share estimated bills come with an ‘E’ next to the it is important to ensure that everyone living Most services such as gas, electricity, internet reading. in the property is named on the bill. and telephone can cut you off. If you don’t You may be able to get your money back pay for your service, they can cut you off via the county courts but you will need a • If there is any dispute about the bills ask If the bill remains in the name of an ex because you are in breach of contract. forwarding address to do so. Please contact the company for a breakdown of the actual tenant or is addressed to ‘the occupier’ fuel However, they will also try to come to an Sheffield Hallam Student’s Union Advice costs and payments may so far. companies can often hold current tenants arrangement if you contact them. Service for help with this issue. liable. This is because, even though they are • If you think that the meter is registering not named on the bill, they have lived in the Electricity & Gas fuel use at too high a rate, ask the supplier property and benefited from the utilities. Problems with bills to check the meter. If you have any disputes over liability, you Electricity and gas may fit pre-payment You can prevent problems with chasing other should contact the advice centre as the rules meters to prevent you being disconnected. tenants for their share of the bill if you: • Most suppliers offer schemes to allow you are complicated. The meter will collect an amount of money to spread payments across the year or pay each week towards the arrears before • Have a forwarding address and their at different intervals. allowing you to pay for and receive a supply of parents’ or home address. Should you electricity or gas. You should treat debts for need to send them a letter about their electricity and gas as a priority. Companies share of the bill, this can make it easier. can pursue the debt through the County Court. Your supply could eventually be disconnected if you do not pay. 32 33 Time to settle in Useful contacts ...but remember you will still need to do the following: Shu Accommodation Services Complaints about gas & electricity suppliers: 38/40 Howard Street Citizens Advice Consumer Service Sheffield S1 1WB Tel: 03454 04 05 06 Show your certificate of Council During the tenancy, remember Tel: 0114 225 5555 Tax exemption letter to the to do the following: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/ Sheffield City Council energy-supply/complain-about-an-energy- relevant council - Get to know your neighbours and company/complain-to-your-energy-supplier/ don’t annoy them with noise and Private Housing Standards Advice Line: - For Sheffield City Council, take your other nuisances. (0114) 273 4680 Telephone and Internet certificate to their offices: There are two Alternative Dispute Resolution First Point - Put out the bins and recycling on the By email: [email protected] Services set up for complaints about phone Howden House correct days - do not allow rubbish for advice and help regarding repairs, Service providers:- Union Street to build up. Check Sheffield City improvements, HMOs and HMO Licensing and Sheffield Council’s website for information on empty properties. Ombudsman Services: S1 2SH bin collection. [email protected] www.ombudsman-services.org/contact-us- - Report all disrepair in writing as for enquiries about tenancy issues communications.html Create a House Documents File soon as possible and send it to your agent/landlord via email or recorded Postal address Tel: 0330 440 1614 - Keep all bills and a copy of the delivery and keep a copy for yourself. Private Housing Standards inventory and contract 1st Floor, Howden House CISAS (independent ADR service approved by - Take photos of the disrepair to use as 1 Union Street Ofcom) www.cedr.com/cisas/ - Make this available to all tenants evidence should you need to. Sheffield, S1 2SH Visit us at First Point at Howden House. Tel: 020 7520 3814 Email: [email protected] - Agree how bills will be paid - seek - Make sure windows and doors are advice from the SHSU Student Advice locked at all times when the property Yorkshire Water TV Licence Centre is empty. Tel: 0845 124 2424 www.tvlicensing.co.uk/?WT.mc_id=phd_ Search_Brand&WT.srch=1 - Let the neighbours know if you are Yorkshire Water Community Trust (for Get confirmation that your going away for the weekend. financial help) deposit is protected Tel: 0845 124 24 26 - Let your landlord know if you will be www.yorkshirewater.com/watersure away for more than 2 weeks. - If you’ve not had it already (you Gas Emergencies should have received it within 10-14 - Living in a private house carries many National Grid Gas Emergency number: days of paying your deposit) responsibilities with it; if you do not 0800 111 999 act responsibly you may find yourself - Even if your contract states who it in trouble with the council, the police www.nationalgridgas.com/safety-and- is protected with, check with the or even the university! emergencies scheme to ensure that this has been done.
34 35 “You don’t Hold the line please Luke’s story Get advice if you need it Two of my housemates trashed the If you have use of a house telephone If you can’t sort it out, seek advice kitchen after coming home drunk, the then make sure everyone’s name is before it goes too far. Contact the really know cooker got broken and food was thrown given to the phone provider, so one Students’ Union Student Advice everywhere even on the ceiling. I share person is not left responsible for sorting Centre: hallamstudentsunion.com/ the house with 5 others and I believe someone out the cost of the phone calls. Try and adviceandhelp account for your calls as best you can that we shouldn’t have to pay for it. One The University’s Wellbeing service and make sure you get an itemised bill of my friends recommended the Advice provides a free conflict resolution showing all phone calls made. If there Service in the Students’ Union. I went for until you service. For more information visit are a few stray numbers left over that the drop-in session and was advised what students.shu.ac.uk/shuspacecontent/ no-one admits to calling then agree to my rights were. I wasn’t happy that I might wellbeing/conflict-resolution or split the cost between everyone in the be liable for the damage as I had signed live with contact the Counselling Service on 0114 house. a joint contract. However, the adviser explained what my options were and I 225 2136 or email student.wellbeing@ 2 am trying to sort it out but unfortunately shu.ac.uk. them” I have to still live with the people that The Wellbeing service is located in Share the housework! caused the damage and I’m not sure if I Sheffield Hallam University, Room 5111, will live with them again after this. Level 1, Surrey Building, Sheffield, S1 Living with friends can be fun 1WB. Share the housework! Agree a cleaning and one of the best things rota so everyone does their fair share about University life; however, of cleaning & buying cleaning materials. Call a meeting Help and support for bullying, we know that sometimes things Suggest having a kitty for cleaning harassment, hate crime and don’t go to plan so here are our materials and maybe even loo rolls. Think about having a house meeting. You are all responsible for the cleaning sexual violence. top tips on how to get on with Having everyone together at one of the communal areas in your house. time is a good idea to help restore Being at university isn’t just about your house mates: All tenants can have their deposits communication and sort out any getting a degree; it’s also about deducted if properties are left unclean problems. Sit down all together & becoming independent and being at the end of the tenancy. discuss the matter collectively. Make part of a diverse adult community. sure that everyone gets their chance to Sheffield Hallam is a safe and tolerant 3 speak & that everyone listens to each community. Share the bills Nip it in the bud other. We don’t stand for harassment or 6 abuse. If you have experienced sexual violence, harassment, abuse or hate If bills are not included in the rent then Talk to your housemate(s) if there is a crime report it either anonymously or please make sure costs are shared Give it time problem before you both get angry and get support from an advisor. between you. Tenants of a property are upset and the issues get out of hand. usually jointly responsible for the utility Give yourselves time to get to know You can also find information about bills. The names of all tenants in the each other and consider others support available and how to disclose or property should be given to the utility feelings. Living together for the first report the incident on the University’s companies as soon as you move in. time can be strange for everyone. Not web page: Remain calm and friendly everyone likes to live in the same way, Agree on how the bills will be paid i.e. reportandsupport.shu.ac.uk/ everyone set up a standing order & try some people are party animals and Do not threaten to retaliate or wait to avoid one person paying out of their others may be very introverted; some 7 until you are end of your tether. Do not own account. are untidy and some like a clean and be embarrassed to say how much the tidy house. Why not have a meeting at problem has upset you or be afraid to the start of the tenancy to discuss how 1 make your views clear. you can all live together better. 36 5 7 37 Staying safe in your Student accommodation There are likely to be many gadgets lying around Advice Centre a student property, such as laptops and tablets, The Student Advice Centre is a free, confidential and mobile phones, TVs etc. This can mean that student independent service. We’re here to help if you need properties are attractive to burglars. support with anything... student funding, housing, academic issues and much more. Here are our tips on how to protect your belongings: The Student Advice Centre is staffed by a team of professionally trained and OPENING • Close windows when you aren’t in the • Register your items on Immobilise www. experienced advisers who will always room (particularly on the ground floor). immobilise.com so they can be returned try to help. No question is too big or TIMES to you if they are lost or stolen. too small so please ask! • Lock your front and back doors, even City Campus when you are in the property. • Use a UV property marking kit to mark The Students’ Union’s Student Advice Students’ Union, your property. Centre is independent from Sheffield The HUBS, Level one • If you have a burglar alarm – use it! Hallam University so can provide impartial advice and representation. Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri: • Leave your light on when you’re going out at night, and consider a lamp on a timer 10am - 4pm (particularly during holiday time). Thurs: Get in touch: 12pm - 4pm • Record the IMEI number of your mobile phone somewhere safe. You can find this Phone: 0114 225 4148 Collegiate Campus number by typing *#06# in your phone. Tweet: @SHSU_Advice In the event of the phone being stolen Oaklands 202, the police have a chance of arresting Heart of the Campus a person who may subsequently use For more information, the handset. IMEI numbers will now be or to contact us via our Mon, Wed & Fri: recorded by the Police and checked website, please go to: 1pm - 3pm plus against suspected stolen mobile phones. hallamstudentsunion.com/ bookable appointments adviceandhelp • Don’t let any contractor into the property unless your landlord has We endeavour to keep the information in this The information contained is given in good faith informed you about their visit leaflet up to date and correct. However, the and Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union accepts beforehand. law changes frequently - as do web links - and no responsibility for any errors or omissions. You this may effect the accuracy of some of the should seek advice if you need further help. information in the future. Contact us if you would like this leaflet on tape, in braille or in large print. 38 39 Follow us! hallamstudentsunion.com
@hallamunion Hallam Union @hallamunion1 @hallamsu