Our Toolkit is an essential read before you sign on the dotted line! Contents Signing up early? Think again!

Signing up early? Think again! 3 Don’t believe the myth that there is a shortage of House hunting top tips 4 student housing in -it’s not true!

Before you sign on the dotted line 5 There is a surplus of good quality student accommodation in Sheffield. Students who don’t start house hunting until the summer before they return to University still secure good properties. We recommend that students wait until after the Love where you live 6 - 13 Students’ Union Housing Fair in November before even considering signing up for a tenancy for the next academic year. What to look for in a house 15 We see many students each year that sign up very early, then change their minds a Understanding housing contracts 19 few months later - usually because they have fallen out with their friends or have realised they cannot afford the new rent or have changed their study plans. Once Essential parts of a tenancy agreement 20 you have signed a tenancy agreement you are not usually able to change your mind and may find yourself having to pay the rent whether you move in or not. Housing contracts - definition of terms 22 Jessica’s story Time to move in 25 “Just after I moved into my accommodation in my first year, everyone was saying that we should look for a house for next year. There was a buzz about finding houses for next year, letting agents started Property inventory 26 advertising.I had just made friends with 5 other girls all in their first year and new to Hallam and we decided to share a house together. I thought it was early but everyone was talking about it so we started looking. We found a property we liked, but not everyone went to view it. We made a decision and signed Household bills 29 up for a property to start the following July and paid our deposits, luckily I had just received my student funding so I could afford the deposit. However, after Christmas one of the girls I was moving in with, fell out with us and so I decided that I didn’t want to move into the property. I went to the Students’ Union Contents insurance 31 Advice Service for advice- they told me what my rights were, but basically I could only get out of the contract if I could find a replacement tenant. As of yet I haven’t managed to do so and I am not looking Changing suppliers 32 forward to moving in. I wished now that I didn’t sign up so early.”

Liability for paying bills 33 LOOK OUT FOR THE House hunting can be daunting and FOLLOWING BADGE TO ENSURE THAT THE a very stressful experience. PROPERTY HAS BEEN Now you can settle in... 35 The safest way to find accommodation is through Sheffield APPROVED BY THE Hallam University’s Accommodation Services website. SCHEME: “You don’t really know someone until you 36 All properties advertised are part of a new scheme with live with them” Sheffield City Council called Snug. This means they are inspected before they are allowed to advertise on the Useful contacts 38 website and the registered landlords have to agree to a code of practice which includes management of the properties. For further information check out the following website: www.shustudenthousing.co.uk/Accommodation 2 3 Before you sign House hunting top tips on the dotted line

There are a number of things that you can do to make sure While the majority of landlords are honest, some may not be you get the best house possible for your group: honourable. It’s in your best interests to read all the fine print and be cautious. 1. 4. Work out who you want Discuss what you want Remember they are trying to sell you a service! to live with in the property Think about this carefully as you will end Not everything will be possible but your • Look into the legal aspects • Do not allow a landlord to rush up living together for a whole year. If there group could draw up a list of essentials of renting you into signing a contract are things that are irritating now a year and desirables. What are your landlord’s responsibilities can be a long time. It is reasonable for the landlord to allow and what are yours? Check out the TIP: The general standard of student you 24 hours to read and check the following website for more information: housing in Sheffield is very good so you contract before signing it. Under the should easily find a property of excellent www.communities.gov.uk/publications/ Snug scheme- landlords have agreed to 2. quality around your budget. housing/assuredassuredtenants allow their tenants time to do this. Explore areas of Sheffield to • Never sign anything you don’t decide where you want to live • Negotiate understand Walk around different areas at different - Although the academic year runs for times of day and make sure you like the Take your time and read the contract about nine months, you may be asked atmosphere and feel safe. Think about 5. properly and make notes of anything you to commit to a 12 month tenancy if you want to live in Sheffield centre Use your common sense! don’t understand. Then bring it to the agreement. You could use this point to next to bars and clubs or would you If something sounds too good to be Advice Centre for checking. negotiate a reduced rate of rent while prefer a quieter area, etc. Take into true, it probably is! you aren’t occupying the property. consideration the distance between • Seek advice about what - Ask the landlord/ letting agent if you the property and the campus you are you’re signing want any amendments making to the based on but also check how far it is to contract if you are not happy with it. Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Advice the supermarkets, gym etc., as this can - Ask for all “promises” of work to be done Service is there to help you and will offer impact on your expenses. and put in writing, specifying deadlines. a free contract checking service so you can be happy that the contract you sign If the landlord is not willing to do so, then is fair. don’t sign! 3. Work out how much you can afford (don’t forget gas, • Do not pay any money before you • Google electricity etc.) sign the agreement Google the landlord and the property This is a common mistake that many students make. For most students, No monies for tenancy deposits or rent to see if there is any negative feedback, their maintenance loan does not usually cover the rent. Make sure that should be demanded prior to the signing which might help with your decision. everyone in the group decides a budget and sticks to it. Remember to and exchange of any tenancy agreement. factor in the bills and living costs! Reservation deposits can be accepted TIP: If you are in halls your internet is normally already sorted. In the providing they are small but refundable if private rented sector some houses have this, some do not. Internet is the landlord withdraws. You should ask for a relatively easy to install so don’t let this put you off a property if it isn’t receipt stating clearly what this money is for and the grounds for a refund.

4 5 Broomhall

Broomhall is a wonderfully interesting and vibrant community, home to a huge range of different residents - old, young, student, non-student, and very culturally diverse. Stretching from Collegiate Crescent right into the city centre’s Devonshire Quarter, there are plenty of ways for you to get involved with your amazing local community.

Things to look our for

1. Broomhall Centre - The Broomhall Centre is central to life in the area for many residents, and offers a full 7-day programme of 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 Broomhall, this tiny nature reserve is a great place to relax, study or even explore the wildlife! 3. Unity Gym - much more than just a gym, Unity Gym uses sports, fitness classes and other events to bring all Broomhall residents together in a fun & friendly environment. It’s a fantastic, welcoming place to help you meet new people!

One for the calendar

Broomhall Gala is a fantastic day, bringing together the whole community to celebrate Broomhall and its residents - games, stalls, activities, great food, music & dance, it’s all here! Highfield Hunters Bar

Highfield is a wonderful, residential community and Jessica Ennis- Based right at the end of Eccelsall Road the Hunter’s Bar community Hills’ old stomping ground! Many students make their homes here is a vibrant and friendly area. From the quiet beauty of whilst at University, and it is just a stone’s throw to both Collegiate to the busy local stores and buzz of the local bars, there’s plenty to and City Campuses! Highfield is also home to Sheffield United FC, do and see around the area! and as one of the oldest professional football grounds in the world, is a must see! Things to look our for Things to look our for 1. ECCO- The Endcliffe Corner Community Organisation are an Highfield sits right on the edge of London Road, so it’s surrounded active community group in the area and are always keen for students to get involved! Photography days, pub nights, cinema by lots of exciting businesses and places to go to, but right on your outings - there’s something for everyone! doorstep you have: 2. Endcliffe Park - One of Sheffield’s 80 public parks, this is a great place to exercise and even better for a quiet walk or a picnic 1. St Mary’s Church - more than just a church, this beautiful building is also a with your housemates! Stroll by the River Porter & check out the café, community centre and regularly home to vintage and craft markets! wildlife. 2. Portland Works - the birthplace of stainless steel, this Grade II* listed 3. Botanical Gardens - 19 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, building is steeped in history, and holds regular open days and events. A home to 4000 types of plants, three ponds and real historical and cultural gem! a bear pit! All free and within a minute’s 3. Highfield Library- A great local library in a walk from Ecclesall Road, this is not to fantastic location. If you fancy a change be missed! from Adsetts or the Learning Centre and want to study a little closer to home, why not work in Highfield’s very own learning space? One for the calendar

The Sheffield Hallam Park One for the calendar Run is a free 5k run held each Saturday morning at St Mary’s Church Vintage & Endcliffe Park. All are welcome Craft Markets - taking place regardless of athletic ability, a every few months, these are a great way to get some fresh air great day out with over 45 stalls, and meet people, then grab a great food and an even better coffee in the Endcliffe Park Café atmosphere! afterwards! Sharrow Sharrow Vale

Sharrow is a vibrant, multi-cultural community close to the hustle Sharrow Vale is a busy, bustling community close to Eccelsall Road and bustle of London Road and only minutes from the City Centre. where local business is key! There’s plenty of independent stores, It has a really friendly and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of boutiques and amazing restaurants along Sharrow Vale Road, and a amazing, independent local businesses and events going on! Make fantastic mixture of students and non-student residents in the area. sure you check out Sheffield’s Antiques Quarter around Abbeydale Sharrow Vale is a fabulously lively and quirky place to live! Road for some incredible vintage bargains!

Things to look our for Things to look our for Amongst all the great eateries on London Road and the fantastic shops, keep an eye out for: If you can tear your eyes from the great places to eat on Sharrow Vale Road, then you should take a look for: 1. Sharrow Community Forum - a great little community centre with a fab café, a huge range of daytime and evening classes, events and 1. Sharrow Vale Community Association - This community group meet regularly volunteering opportunities! to discuss the events and issues in the area; head to one of their meetings! 2. Mount Pleasant Park - one of Sheffield’s 80 public parks, this You might even be able to help planning the Sharrow Vale Market. beautiful green space is a great place to play sport, have a picnic or 2. Sheffield General Cemetery - one of Sheffield’s hidden cultural gems, this is just relax! a MUST SEE for all lovers of history, wildlife and architecture. Tours available 3. Sheffield Chinese Community Centre - Here to on the first Sunday of each month. support the local Chinese community; the 3. Sharrow Vale Road - fantastic, cheap centre hosts a massive variety of events independent food stores, boutique shopping, street art, amazing pubs & and opportunities for all! bars, what’s not to love? One for the calendar One for the calendar Sharrow Lantern Carnival takes places one night each Spring, illuminating the whole Sharrow Vale Market is a food community as thousands of lovers’ paradise with loads of people parade their wonderful street food stalls as well as craft home-made lanterns from sellers taking over Sharrow Vale Mount Pleasant Park to the Road. Taking place every few General Cemetery for a huge months, this is definitely an event party! to watch out for! UPPERTHORPE KEY KELHAM ISLAND 1 The HUBS 2 Devonshire Green

COBDEN VIEW RD. CONDUIT RD. THE PARK 3 City Hall

NETHERTHORPE RD. 4 Ponds Forge CROOKES COMMONSIDE BOLSOVER ST. NORTHUMBERLAND RD. ST VINCENT’S 5 Cathedral

CROOKES RD. CROOKES HIGH ST. 6 Carver Street BROAD LN. 7 Kelham Island UOS CAMPUS Bowie Graffiti A57 8

UOS POND ST. CAMPUS WEST ST. 9 University of Sheffield Students’ Union SHU A61

PINSTONE ST. PINSTONE CITY

CAMPUS 10 Royal Hallamshire Hospital CROOKES RD. CROOKES UOS CAMPUS DIVISION ST. DEVONSHIRE ARUNDEL GATE QUARTER 11 5K Park Run (FREE)

GLOSSOP RD. 12 Sharrow Vale Road BROOMHILL ST. FITZWILLIAM

HANOVER WAY 13 Heart of the Campus - Students’ Union Office

PARK LN. COLLEGIATEBROOMHALL CRES. EYRE ST. 14 Sheffield United Football Club CULTURAL The Harley SHU INDUSTRIES 15 COLLEGIATE BROOMHALL RD. MOORE ST. QUARTER CAMPUS

CLARKEHOUSE RD.

BROOMGROVE RD. ST. MARY’S GATE WILLIAM ST. WILLIAM

BOTANICAL GARDENS

ENDCLIFFE ECCLESALL RD. COLLEGIATE CRES. COLLEGIATE NAPIER ST. QUEENS RD.

BRAMALL LN. HUNTERS LONDON RD. HILL ST. BAR SHOREHAM ST. CEMETERY SHARROW

BROCCO BANK CEMETERY RD. ENDCLIFFE SHARROW VALE PARK HIGHFIELD SHARROW VALE RD. SHEFFIELD HALLAM STUDENTS’ UNION SHARROW LN. THE HUBS! - That’s us! What to look for in a house DO NOT SIGN IF YOU HAVE NOT DONE THE FOLLOWING: Remember the condition of the property may give you an indication of the response to any repairs requests. Worked out if you can afford the rent and bills: ABOUT THE HOUSE NOTES: Monthly rent per person + utility bills + food & living costs = Monthly amount you are committing yourself to. 1. Address of the property

Do not sign any tenancy until you have looked around the property. 2. Name of the landlord and contact number If possible try to look at 5 or 6 for comparison. You wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes, without trying them on first! 3. Is the property in a good state of repair?

4. Do the windows shut properly? Read and understood the contract. 5. Are they likely to leak? Got all tenants together at the same time to sign the contract. Otherwise someone may pull out and you may be stuck with additional rent and 6. Are the guttering and roof tiles in good condition? living costs. 7. Do the doors lock properly? Please ensure: that you get a copy of the contract to keep, so that you can refer to it if anything goes wrong! 8. Is there a communal area? It is your right to have a copy of your tenancy agreement. ALL ROOMS NOTES:

1. Are there any loose wires or dangerous looking fittings?

2. Does the furniture comply with fire regulations?

3. Is there enough furniture?

4. Is there adequate escape from a fire?

What to look for in a house: 5. Does the house have central heating? Don’t panic! Don’t accept the first house you see 6. If there is central heating, does the thermostat work? – try and view several houses before you make a final decision because once you’ve signed a 7. If there is no central heating, what heating is provided? contract for a house it’s difficult to get out of it. 8. If gas or electric, do the heaters work?

9. Are there any smoke detectors? 14 15 KITCHEN NOTES: RENT AND CONTRACT NOTES:

1. Is there running hot and cold water? 1. How much is the rent?

2. Do the cooker and fridge appear to be in 2. When and how is it to be paid? safe working order?

3. Is there enough work and cupboard space? 3. Is the rent paid separately or as a group?

4. Are cleaning and cooking utensils provided? 4. How long is the contract for?

5. How much is the deposit? 5. Are there any fire extinguishers or fire blankets? BEFORE MOVING IN NOTES: BATHROOM NOTES: 1. Have you seen a Gas Safety Certificate? 1. Is there any damp or mould? 2. Is there an inventory? 2. Do the taps work? 3. Does the inventory state the condition of 3. Does the toilet flush? the items?

4. Does the shower curtain/door stop the 4. Will damaged items be repaired before you move in? water leaking on to the floor?

BILLS NOTES: GENERAL NOTES:

1. Are the bills to be paid by the tenants? 1. Are there any restrictions to having visitors or posters?

2. How much are the bills likely to be? 2. Is there a storage area for bikes?

3. Are the bills to be paid quarterly? 3. Have you asked the previous tenants what the property is like to live in? 4. Are there any card/key meters?

TIP Check things carefully before committing yourself to a property. If there is anything you are unhappy with or anything wrong with the property, inform the landlord in writing and keep a copy for yourself.

TIP Remember to get any promises of repairs/ house improvements with promises of deadlines agreed in writing.

16 17 Zeddy’s story Understanding “ I didn’t know what to do when our housing agents weren’t being housing contracts co-operative, weren’t providing us with the services we were paying for and had generally not treated us in a professional manner. Joint tenancies Individual tenancies Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Advice Centre gave us the support we were looking for, reassured us of our rights, introduced us to new ways of seeking help (ringing the council, If a group of you are renting a If a group of you are living in how to write to our landlord, how and in what way to appropriately tackle our issues, ensuring we have appropriate licences for our house which we would not have known property together and you are all a property together, but you about otherwise). named on the contract, it is likely want to avoid the burdens of a that you will have what is called a joint tenancy, you could try and Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Advice Service supported us in our decisions and ensured joint tenancy. negotiate individual tenancies of we could re-open our case when we needed to appreciating that as students in our final your rooms.This means that you year we were already having a stressful and busy time so struggled to keep on top of it all. A joint tenancy means that you are each liable for the whole rent of the premises are only liable for the rent for your They also supported us in liaising with the local MP, in order to promote an effective change and for any other obligations under the room but have access to all the for all students with such issues. ” tenancy. joint facilities of the property (i.e. For example: There is a group of four bathroom, kitchen etc.). Right to Rent tenants on a joint tenancy for 9 months The disadvantages of this agreement and one tenant decides to leave in the sixth are that: month because they are fed up that no one You must prove that you have a right What your landlord must do else does any cleaning. Each joint tenant 1. If someone leaves, you do not have any to rent property in if you’re was paying an equal share of the rent. In say over who the leaving tenant or the Your landlord (or letting agent) must: starting a tenancy on or after 1 this case, the landlord is entitled to collect landlord finds to replace them. the shortfall in rent from any or all of the February 2016. You only have to prove 1. Check your original documents to your right to rent a property if you’re remaining tenants. These remaining tenants 2. Because you only have a tenancy of your make sure you have the right to rent a may subsequently be able to recover this renting it as your main home. property in England 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.). Exemptions: 2. Check the documents of any other In the above circumstances, the best adults living in the property solution is for the leaving tenant to find You won’t have to prove your right to rent if You may have to pay a separate licence someone to replace them. 3. you live in: 3. Make copies of your documents and fee for each TV in the house. keep them until you leave the property • student accommodation, eg halls of residence 4. Return your original documents to you once they’ve finished the check • accommodation provided by your employer as part of your job or training For a list of documents which are responsible: • social housing www.gov.uk/government/publications/ • accommodation provided by the right-to-rent-document-checks-a-user- council guide

• 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 19 Essential parts of The tenants’ obligations Guarantors a tenancy agreement Looking after the property Some landlords may ask you to provide the 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 Name and contact Address of property payments. Any disrepair should be reported to the details of landlord being rented landlord, as they are not legally obliged to Signed by ALL tenants Under Section 48 of the Landlord and If you do not have a ‘joint’ contract, it is carry out the repairs until they have been Tenant Act 1987, it requires that the tenant important that the contract should clearly notified of them. and landlord (or agent is provided with an address where notices state which room you are renting, e.g. Tenants are expected to carry out minor for landlord) may be served on the landlord. If the “the ground floor bedroom plus use of the repairs such as changing a light bulb, etc. All tenants names need to be on the information is not provided on the tenancy communal areas”(if it doesn’t show this, agreement and each tenant should sign it. agreement, ask for the information then ask for it to be added to the contract). Noise and nuisance This is very important, when signing up for in writing. Most contracts will have a clause prohibiting excessive noise especially between a property, as someone may decide not to Rent and how it 11pm and 7am. move into the property (especially when All the tenants’ names students sign up approx. 9 months before is to be paid Permitting Access to the Landlord When the agreement names 2 or more the start of the tenancy). £XXX per month/term payable on DD/MM/YY You may have to allow your landlord/agent/ individuals as tenants then it is a joint Many students pay their rent termly in workmen to enter the property to carry out tenancy. This means that tenants are jointly repairs, show prospective tenants round or The landlord renting the whole house as a group and line with when they receive their student to inspect the house. However, this should This is the person who OWNS the property. legally each tenant can be held responsible funding, however, you could ask to pay your be at reasonable hours and with at least 24 You can find out who this is by doing a for the whole rent and not just their own rent on a monthly basis if it suits you better. hours’ notice (except in emergencies) search on the Land Registry. It costs £3 to share of it. This may happen if one tenant Please ensure that you plan to make your do a search and is well worth the money. is unable to pay their share of the rent or first rent instalment, as you may not receive Other Clauses leaves the tenancy early. your funding on time. A contract is a record of agreement made Go to www.landregistry.gov.uk then click between you and your landlord, which on ‘find a property’. From this you can also Landlord’s obligations means you can ask your landlord to add find out if the property has a mortgage on Length of agreement or delete clauses. However, the contract it. Ask if the mortgage company know about Carry out repairs for which liability is (normally 12 months) cannot override your statutory rights, even the tenancy. imposed under Section 11 of the Landlord if it is written in the contract. Clauses A Fixed term of XX months starting and Tenant Act 1985 on DD/MM/YY to DD/MM/YY which are too prescriptive (e.g. preventing The letting agent A landlord is legally required to carry out overnight stays by guests or you must This is normally for a fixed term and is Letting agents are usually the company that repairs on the structure of the property as hoover up 3 times a week) are likely to the period that the landlord has agreed advertises the property on the landlord’s well as the plumbing, sanitary conveniences be ‘unfair terms’ and are unlikely to be to temporarily ‘give’ the property to the behalf. and installations such as electrical wiring enforceable in a court of law. tenant. In return the tenant has to pay and gas piping. They may also: rent. Unless the contract contains a ‘break Allow the tenants to quietly possess and • Collect rent clause’ then neither party can get out of Deposit enjoy the property without unnecessary or the contract before the end of the fixed If you have an Assured Shorthold Tenancy • Arrange repairs unwarranted interference. term, unless it is agreed between you and (most students do) your deposit must be • Take and repay the deposit. Quiet enjoyment is one of the fundamental the landlord. secured in a tenancy deposit scheme. Your How much they are involved depends on terms of a tenancy; you have the right landlord legally has to secure your deposit the agreement they have with the landlord. to live undisturbed in your home. Your within 30 days of receiving it and they must landlord/agent must legally give you at provide you with details of the scheme it Remember: The letting agent works for least 24hours’ notice of any visits to your is secured in (also known as “prescribed the landlord NOT for the tenants. property. information”). If your deposit is not secured then you can apply to county court for compensation of between 1 and 3 times the amount of your deposit. 20 21 Housing contracts TERM DEFINITION Describes criminal offences which, for example, may be alleged - definition of terms Discrimination with reference to gender, race, employment or disability laws as current at any time. Terms that are not unreasonable to either party to an Tenancy agreements will feature a variety of words that Fair Terms Agreement and do not breach statutory regulations – see also may at first seem very confusing. Unfair Terms. General Day to day repairs – keeping the property free from draught Below are some of the most common terms, along with brief definitions – if you are unsure Maintenance and water-tight. about anything please seek further advice from the Student Advice Centre in the HUBS. Clean, structurally stable, free from disrepair, infestation and Habitable dampness or other factors which could damage your health. TERM DEFINITION 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. Alterations Physical changes to a property. House in Multiple A house occupied by persons who do not form a single household e.g. most shared houses. Three storey HMO’s need Arrears Rent payments lawfully due that have not been paid. Occupation (HMO) to be licensed with Sheffield City Council. A payment by a Local Authority either to the Landlord, the The disposal or transfer of a tenancy to another person. Assignment Housing Benefit Managing Agent or direct to the Tenant, to assist with the To transfer one’s rights, interest or title in a property to Tenant’s payment of rent. Assign another person. An obligation prescribed by law not necessarily written and Implied Obligation recorded in a tenancy agreement. Assured Shorthold A form of Agreement that does not guarantee long term security but allows the Landlord to reclaim the property at the Organised list of the contents of a property - see Tenancy end of the term. At present most tenancies are in this form. Inventory Schedules of Condition. Failure to carry out obligation/s as set out in a formal Breach of Contract If you share a property with others and all your names are Agreement. on one tenancy agreement you are likely to be Joint Tenants Significant change in the use of a property as defined by Town Joint and Several and the responsibility or liability for rent, rent arrears and any Change of Use and Country Planning legislation. Liability damage will be shared jointly between you all. If one person leaves the house the landlord can expect the remaining Tenants Independent companies employed to provide goods and to pay any outstanding rent which may result. Contractors services e.g. carrying out repairs on a property. An owner of the freehold of a property who lets the property A document setting out a formal Agreement between two or Landlord/lady to someone else. Contract more parties. Legally bound duty that an individual is required to undertake in Legal Obligation order to fulfil the rules as set in law. Covenant An obligation undertaken by a party to a tenancy agreement. Agreement Process of arrangement between Landlord and Tenant and Letting Cyclical Maintenance work necessary at regular, pre-determined and commitment to a tenancy agreement. Maintenance repeating times, e.g. decoration to the outside of a property. Informal attempts of a third party to bring about the settlement Mediation Legislation regarding data records held both electronically and of a dispute between parties to a contract. Data Protection physically by an organisation. In order to protect tenants, the Housing Acts give clear Tenant’s money paid by Tenants under a tenancy. This is Overcrowding guidelines on what may be interpreted as overcrowded normally held as security against damage to the property residential accommodation. and will be repaid at the end of the tenancy provided that Deposit When a fixed term agreement expires and the landlord has the tenant has adhered to their obligations as set out in their agreed that tenants can continue in a property but no further tenancy agreement – see also Tenancy Deposit Scheme. Periodic Tenancy fixed term agreement is issued the tenancy becomes periodic in that either party may give two months' notice before vacating (or requesting vacation) of the property. 22 23 TERM DEFINITION The control of property. Various factors will indicate Time to move in Possession who is in possession of a property at any given time. A general visual tour of the property – not a survey. Property Inspection Landlords will often carry these out every three months, and must give a minimum of 24 hours' notice in writing. Before you start unpacking make sure you do the following: The common law right of a Tenant to possession and enjoyment of his tenancy without physical interference Quiet Enjoyment by his Landlord or Landlord’s Agent; the Tenant’s right to 1. 4. damages for significant breach of this right. Fill out the inventory Make a list of any repairs The process of agreeing a new rent between the • Include marks on the wall. that need to be carried out parties, governed by legislation and contract law. • Specify which room and where in the and put IN WRITING to the Rent Reviews This is subject to a Notice period or defined timescale room the problem is. landlord/letting agent intended to allow preparation for change. • Add details of blue-tack marks on • Ask the landlord to agree to a timeline A Landlord who is ordinarily living within the property Resident Landlord the walls, stains on the carpet or of when the repairs will be carried out being rented. furniture etc. and add this to the list Organised list of the state and condition of a property • Be very, very accurate on the • Ask the landlord/agent to sign the list Schedule of Condition at a specified date. inventory as it will be your main proof • Give the landlord/agent a copy and of the condition of the house when Appliances for the heating of an internal area of keep one for your records Space Heating a building. you moved in, and will help you get your deposit back. Notices as provided in law requiring action by those Statutory Notices who receive them or send them. Obligations required by law to be carried out. 5. Statutory Requirement/ For example, minimum Health and Safety standards Find the utility meters and Obligation 2. exist in law for the regulation of rented property. Agree the inventory with make a note of the readings A right given by statute law of the land and which the other tenants and landlord/ • If bills are included keep these for Statutory Right cannot be varied or overridden by contract. agent before signing it your records. • If not, contact the utility companies Statutory Tenancies Tenancies created or maintained in law. • Make sure you get a copy for your with the readings and set up a new records - your inventory is the best A tenancy held from a superior tenancy but not direct account in ALL your names. evidence you will have to get your Sub-Letting from the freeholder. deposit back. • Set up a new account in ALL your The law that applies to all such matters including the names Supply of Goods and contract between Landlord and Agent for rented Services Act 1982 property. All deposits taken for Assured Shorthold Tenancies 3. must be placed into one of three government approved Take photos of the property schemes. If there is a dispute at the end of the tenancy, Tenancy Deposit Scheme an Alternative Resolution Service will mediate (free • Date stamp the photos. of charge) to resolve the dispute and ensure a fair • Take photos even if the room/ outcome for both parties. furniture etc. is in good condition and The process of extending or renewing an existing keep them until you have got your Tenancy Renewal tenancy for a further specified period of time, at terms deposit back. to be agreed between the parties to the contract. Terms that are unreasonable to any - or all - parties to Unfair Terms an agreement and may breach statutory regulations.

24 25 BATHROOM / TOILET Property inventory Item Description/condition Item Description/condition

Door(s) Bath

PROPERTY ADDRESS: Ceiling/walls Shower

ELECTRICITY READING: START DATE: / / FINISH DATE: / / Floor Toilet

GAS READING: START DATE: / / FINISH DATE: / / Heating appliance Toilet roll holder

GAS SAFETY CERTIFICATE NUMBER: EXPIRY DATE: Windows Sink

Curtains/blind Towel rail/hooks LIVING / DINING ROOM Mirror Cupboards Item Description/condition Item Description/condition Door(s) Windows HALL / MISCELLANEOUS Walls Curtains Item Description/condition Item Description/condition

Ceiling Sofa /suite Door(s) Stairs/banister

Light fitting/ Dustpan and Carpet Walls/ceiling lampshades brush

Heating appliance Furniture Floor Ironing board Internet TV connection Heating appliance Outside dustbin

Windows Garden KITCHEN Curtains Smoke detectors Item Description/condition Item Description/condition

Door(s) Refrigerator

Walls/ceiling Cupboards

Floor Kettle

Washing Windows machine/dryer

Heating appliance Lampshades

Cooker Bucket/mop

Sinks/taps Iron

Worktops Hoover

26 27 BEDROOM - UPSTAIRS/DOWNSTAIRS - BACK/MIDDLE/FRONT Household Bills Item Description/condition Item Description/condition

Door(s) Bed

Walls/ceiling Wardrobe You should check your tenancy agreement to clarify whether the

Floor/carpet Drawers tenants or the landlord are responsible for paying the bills. Most tenancy agreements have a clause that says the tenants are Heating appliance Desk responsible for gas, electricity, water rates, telephone, internet, Windows Chair TV Licence and Council Tax. Lampshades/ Curtains light fitting

You should notify the suppliers of gas, electricity, water, and telephone. SIGNATURES You will have to fill in an application form indicating that you want a supply. LANDLORD: DATE: On this form you should list all the names of the people who will be living in the property and ask all of them to sign the form. This is to avoid TENANT: DATE: problems with liability (see section on liability for further information). Make sure you take a reading of the gas and electricity meters, DATE: and make a note of it, and the day it was taken, and keep it in a safe place. Remember if you don’t do this straight away you could find yourself paying DATE: for the previous tenants’ bills. Check your first bill to ensure that it does not include the previous tenants’ PLEASE NOTE: charges. 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. When compiling an inventory it is vital that you record the condition of every item in Typical Household Bills 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 Electricity & / Gas Electricity photos, and keep them until you have left the tenancy, just in case there are any Many companies can now supply your To find out who your electricity supplier is disputes over getting your deposit back. gas or electricity or both. However with call 0845 330 0889. choice often comes confusion. The first and A list of companies and links to contact easiest option to find out who supplies your details can be found here: electricity and gas if you’ve just moved to www.electricity-guide.org.uk/companies. a new property is to simply ask the letting html agent, landlord or the previous tenant of your property. In order to find out who your gas supplier is, call the Meter Point Administration Service line on 0870 608 1524.

28 29 Water & sewerage Other typical bills Water supplies water to everyone • Tel ephone in this area. Unless you are on a meter you Most students tend to use their mobiles, Contents Insurance don’t have to get a reading for this. Contact However, if there is a landline; ensure Yorkshire Water to set up an account or for that each person is named on the bills. any problems to do with your water at You can also request itemised billing to www.yorkshirewater.com work out who has used what; however, there is usually a charge for this. Your landlord is responsible for insuring the premises and their TV Licence • Internet belongings, but you are responsible for insuring your personal • Living in Halls of Residence Most student households will need this, possessions. Generally Home Contents Insurance must be taken For students who live in a traditional hall but shop around for the best deals, make of residence, all of those who have a TV sure that it is adequate for your usage, out for a year. in their study bedroom will need to have don’t just opt for the cheapest option. a licence unless there is only one TV set Internet charges are similar to telephone Some students may be covered by their parents’ (Home available in a communal area. charges. If more than one person uses Contents) insurance policy, which may provide cover for If you live in a ‘cluster’ flat (blocks of your internet supply, you need to come accommodation where the residents to an agreement about how to pay the students studying away from home. It is worth checking if this share communal facilities, including a bill. applies to you, and what type of loss you can claim for. lounge area) then unless the landlord You may prefer to set up an internet has provided the set, the tenants will be / television / telephone package. It is responsible for buying the licence. important to research which provider is Insurance terms explained: Things to look out for the cheapest. Remember that you may • Is your property insured only if it is • Sharing a house Home Contents Insurance For students who share a house it will need to compromise in order to find a This normally covers most items in the home. stolen from your home? Are you covered depend on what type of contract you package that suits everyone in the house. For example, TV, stereo, clothing, jewellery outside the home for property such as portable computers, stereos and have signed. Joint tenants will need one • Sky/cable TV etc. It is important to check each policy to make sure that all your belongings are bicycles? licence between them to cover all sets in This can be expensive, ask yourself if it covered. the house but tenants with an individual is really necessary! Again shop around as • If items such as bicycles are stolen contract will need a separate licence to there are cheaper alternatives than Sky. Personal Belongings Insurance from a communal hallway would you be covered? cover any TV’s owned. Be careful to check how long you are This is cover for items which you take out of Where a TV set is used only for computers, signing up for as it may be for longer than your home, this may include maximum pay- • Some insurance companies will pay a electronic games or screening pre- your tenancy agreement. outs for items such as money, so make sure it maximum amount for certain items. For recorded videos, a licence is not required. covers you for your needs. example, they may only pay a maximum • Council Tax However, the set must be incapable of New for old policies of £200 for stereo equipment even if it Full time students are exempt from receiving broadcast services; it is not simply Many insurance companies offer a new for old would cost you £500 to replace. council tax. However, some students will be sufficient to remove the tuner. policy. This means that if your old TV worth • Are you covered for accidental damage? liable, if in doubt seek advice. about £20 is stolen, then they would pay the Again check the small print. full amount needed to buy a new one of a • Are you covered if you are on holiday and similar make.  the property is vacant? On the 1 September 2016, the law changed and you now need a TV Wear and Tear • Are you covered out of term time? Licence to watch or download BBC programmes on demand, including Some policies will include a wear and tear Remember to check the small print so that catch up TV, on BBC iPlayer. clause for items such as clothing. In other you are aware of what you are buying! words, they will not pay the full cost you paid If you are unsure about whether you need to buy a TV License to con- for an item, and will deduct an amount for tact TV licensing direct to find out.TV Licence. YOU could be fined up wear and tear. to £1000 for not having a TV licence. Discounts Many insurance companies will offer discounts if you have a burglar alarm, or if you live in a Home Watch Area. 30 31 Liability for Changing Suppliers paying bills

You might want to look into changing your supplier you should The person who requested the supply of gas and electricity will check your tenancy agreement and discuss with your landlord be liable to pay for it and their name will appear on the bill. if this is possible first. Some landlords do not allow tenants to Everyone named on the bill is liable not only for their agreed change their supplier. If you want to change and your landlord share but for the whole of the bill, provided they signed an will not let you please contact us for further advice. agreement to have a supply.

Before signing a contract, it is worth shopping around to compare prices, This is known as “joint and several liability.” The supplier has the right to standing charges, and termination of contract fees, payment options, and pursue one or all the tenants named on the bill for the full amount. Joint the company’s policy if you cannot pay your bill. Check to make sure that and several liability overrides any informal agreement between tenants. you are not tied in for a minimum period, which lasts longer than your If your name is not on a bill but you are asked to pay it, please contact the tenancy agreement. Don’t sign up if you are unsure. Advice Service for further advice. To help you find a good deal, go to a comparison website such as www.uswitch.com or www.energyhelpline.com Problems can occur when only one tenant What will happen if I is named on the bill and the other tenants don’t pay the bills? do not pay their share. The other tenants If you are not sure who is your fuel supplier, sometimes escape payment because they are Will I be cut off? you will need to contact: not named on the bill and as a result will not Most services such as gas, electricity, internet Gas: be pursued by the utility company. This is why and telephone can cut you off. If you don’t Gas Meter helpline on 0870 608 1524 it is important to ensure that everyone living pay for your service, they can cut you off (*This call will cost 7 per minute plus your in the property is named on the bill. because you are in breach of contract. phone company’s access charge.) However, they will also try to come to an If the bill remains in the name of an ex arrangement if you contact them. Electricity: tenant or is addressed to ‘the occupier’ fuel Northern Power Grid on 0800 375 675 companies can often hold current tenants Electricity & Gas Water (Sheffield): liable. This is because, even though they are Electricity and gas may fit pre-payment Yorkshire Water on 0345 124 2424 not named on the bill, they have lived in the meters to prevent you being disconnected. Inclusive Bills property and benefited from the utilities. The meter will collect an amount of money Usually there is a cap on the usage, so if the If you have any disputes over liability, you each week towards the arrears before household goes over the cap you may have to should contact the advice centre as the rules allowing you to pay for and receive a supply of pay the difference. are complicated. electricity or gas. You should treat debts for electricity and gas as a priority. Companies However, check that you are liable for the can pursue the debt through the County usage by asking your landlord to show you Court. Your supply could eventually be meter readings and or the bill from the disconnected if you do not pay. supplier. Water & Sewerage Since 1999, you cannot have your water supply disconnected because of arrears. However, water companies can pursue

32 33 payment through the County Court. You rating! should contact your supplier and look at • If people move in and out of the property ways of making paymentsto arrears and for during the tenancy, ask the utility Time to settle in... future bills. Remember water is an on-going company to change the names on the bills. expense. You may be able to apply to the Ensure that the outgoing tenant leaves a Yorkshire Water or Severn Trent Water Trust forwarding address and money for their for financial help. share of the bills. The incoming tenant ...but remember you will still need to do the following: Telephone should be added to the names on the bill. Your telephone may be disconnected if you • Try to avoid estimated bills by providing • Show your certificate of Council • During the tenancy, remember to do not keep to agreed payments. Telephone regular meter readings. Tax exemption letter to the do the following: companies can pursue payment through the relevant council - Get to know your neighbours and County Court. Whether or not the telephone If you receive high bills: - For Sheffield City Council, take your don’t annoy them with noise and other is a priority for you depends on your • Ensure that bills are based on actual and certificate to their offices: nuisances. circumstances, but in most cases it is not a not estimated meter readings. Often First Point priority debt. If you have problems paying the estimated bills come with an ‘E’ next to the - Put out the bins and recycling on the bill you could consider changing to incoming reading. Howden House correct days - do not allow rubbish calls only. If you have a mobile you may want Union Street to build up. Check Sheffield City to consider changing to a cheaper tariff or to • If there is any dispute about the bills ask Sheffield Council’s website for information on bin ‘Pay As You Go’. the company for a breakdown of the actual costs and payments may so far. S1 2SH collection. If your Housemates won’t • If you think that the meter is registering - Report all disrepair in writing and send fuel use at too high a rate, ask the supplier • Create a House File pay their share it to your agent/landlord via email or to check the meter. - Keep all bills, copy of inventory and recorded delivery and keep a copy for You may be able to get your money back • Most suppliers offer schemes to allow you yourself. via the county courts but you will need a contract in this folder to spread payments across the year or pay forwarding address to do so. Please contact - Take photos of the disrepair to use as at different intervals. - Make this available to all tenants evidence should you need to. Sheffield Hallam Student’s Union Advice - Agree how bills will be paid- seek advice Service for help with this issue. from the Advice Centre - Make sure windows and doors are locked at all times when the property Problems with Bills • Get confirmation that your is empty. You can prevent problems with chasing other deposit is protected - Let the neighbours know if you are going tenants for their share of the bill if you: away for the weekend. • Have a forwarding address and their - If you’ve not had it already (you should parents’ or home address. Should you have received it within 10-14 days of - Let your landlord know if you will be need to send them a letter about their paying your deposit) away for more than 2 weeks. share of the bill, this can make it easier. - Even if your contract states who it is - Living in a private house carries many • Set up a bank account together and save protected with, check with the scheme responsibilities with it; if you do not money each week/ month towards the to ensure that this has been done. act responsibly you may find yourself in bills. trouble with the council, the police or • Ask for an itemised telephone bill, which even the university! shows the number dialled, the date and cost of the call. This can help identify what proportion of the bill each tenant should pay. • Keep on top of the bills; try to pay them on time. Unpaid bills can affect your credit

34 35 5. 8. “You don’t really know someone Share the housework! Get advice if you need it Share the housework! Agree a cleaning If you can’t sort it out, seek help/ until you live with them” rota so everyone does their fair share advice before it goes too far. of cleaning & buying cleaning materials. Contact the Advice Centre: www. Suggest having a kitty for cleaning hallamstudentsunion.com/advice_ Here are our top tips materials and maybe even loo rolls. help/housing/ You are all responsible for the cleaning The University’s Wellbeing service on how to get on with of the communal areas in your house. provides a free conflict resolution your housemates: All tenants can have their deposits service. For more information contact deducted if properties are left unclean the Counselling Service on 0114 225 at the end of the tenancy. 2136 or by emailing student.wellbeing@ shu.ac.uk. The Wellbeing service is located in Sheffield Hallam University, Room 5111, Level 1, Surrey Building, 1. 3. 6. Sheffield, S1 1WB. Split the bills Nip it in the bud Call a meeting If bills are not included in the rent then Talk to your house-mate(s) if there is a Think about having a house meeting. please make sure costs are shared problem before you both get angry and Having everyone together at one between you. Tenants of a property are upset and the issues get out of hand. time is a good idea to help restore usually jointly responsible for the utility communication and sort out any bills. The names of all tenants in the problems. Sit down all together & property should be given to the utility discuss the matter collectively. Make companies as soon as you move in. sure that everyone gets their chance to Agree on how the bills will be paid i.e. 4. speak & that everyone listens to each everyone set up a standing order & try Remain calm and friendly other. to avoid one person paying out of their Do not threaten to retaliate or wait own account. until you are end of your tether. Do not Luke’s story be embarrassed to say how much the “ Two of my housemates trashed the problem has upset you or be afraid to 7. kitchen after coming home drunk, the make your views clear. cooker got broken and food was thrown Give it time everywhere even on the ceiling. I share 2. Give yourselves time to get to know the house with 5 others and I believe Hold the line please each other and consider others that we shouldn’t have to pay for it. I f you have use of a house telephone feelings. Living together for the first One of my friends recommended the then make sure everyone’s name is time can be strange for everyone. Not Advice Service in the Students’ Union. given to the phone provider, so one everyone likes to live in the same way, I went for the drop-in session and was person is not left responsible for some people are party animals and advised what my rights were. I wasn’t sorting out the cost of the phone calls. others may be very introverted; some happy that I might be liable for the Try and account for your calls as best are untidy and some like a clean and damage as I had signed a joint contract. you can and make sure you get an tidy house. Why not have a meeting at However, the adviser explained what my itemised bill showing all phone calls the start of the tenancy to discuss how options were and I am trying to sort it made. If there are a few stray numbers you can all live together better. out but unfortunately I have to still live left over that no-one admits to calling with the people that caused the damage then agree to split the cost between and I’m not sure if I will live with them everyone in the house. again after this.”

36 37 Useful contacts SHEFFIELD HALLAM STUDENTS’ UNION STUDENT ADVICE SERVICE Shu Accommodation Services can be found here: 38/40 Howard Street www.gas-guide.org.uk/companies.html Sheffield S1 1WB Gas Emergencies Tel: 0114 225 5555 National Grid Gas Emergency number: Find Us: 0800 111 999 City Campus Sheffield City Council Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Collegiate Campus www2.nationalgrid.com/contact-us/ The HUBS Room 202, Oaklands Private Housing Standards Advice Line: Paternoster Row next to Heart of the Campus (0114) 273 4680 Complaints about gas& electricity suppliers: Citizens Advice Consumer Service

By e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 03454 04 05 06 for advice and help regarding repairs, improvements, HMOs and HMO Licensing and www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/ Opening Hours: empty properties. energy-supply/complain-about-an-energy- company/complain-to-your-energy-supplier/ [email protected] for enquiries about tenancy issues Telephone and Internet City: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday There are two Alternative Dispute Resolution 10am - 4pm & Thursdays 12pm - 4pm Postal address Services set up for complaints about phone Private Housing Standards Service providers:- 1st Floor, Howden House Collegiate: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 1 Union Street Ombudsman Services: Sheffield, S1 2SH 10am - 3pm www.ombudsman-services.org/contact-us- Visit us at First Point at Howden House. communications.html

Yorkshire Water Tel: 0330 440 1614 Tel: 0845 124 2424 Email and telephone advice service: CISAS (independent ADR service approved by Yorkshire Water Community Trust (for Ofcom) www.cedr.com/cisas/ Phone: 0114 225 4148 financial help) Email: [email protected] Tel: 0845 124 24 26 Tel: 020 7520 3827 Email:- [email protected] www.yorkshirewater.com/watersure TV Licence Contact us and find more information through our website: Consumer Council http://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/?WT.mc_ hallamstudentsunion.org/adviceandhelp For Water Complaints about water providers id=phd_Search_Brand&WT.srch=1 Tel: 0300 034 2222 Email: [email protected] Tel: For Direct Debit customers, or if you pay all in one go: 0300 790 0368 Electricity We endeavour to keep the information in this leaflet up to date and correct. However, the law changes A list of companies and links to contact For payment card customers (cash plan). All frequently - as do web links - and this may effect the accuracy of some of the information in the future. details can be found here: queries and new applications: 0300 555 0286 The information contained is given in good faith and Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union accepts no www.electricity-guide.org.uk/companies responsibility for any errors or omissions. You should seek advice if you need further help. Online contact page: - www.tvlicensing.co.uk/ Gas cs/contact-us/index.app Contact us if you would like this leaflet on tape, in braille or in large print. A list of gas companies and contact details 39 STAY IN TOUCH WITH YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION! hallamstudentsunion.org

@hallamunion Hallam Union @hallamunion1 @hallamsu