Renting through us

We will ask for your address history for the last three years and complete a credit check on each individual tenant. We also require a reference from your existing landlord or letting agent (if you are currently renting) plus a written reference from your employer. If you are self-employed, we will ask for an accountant's reference and your most recent set of submitted accounts.

We have an obligation to conduct regular inspections of all tenanted accommodation. This is to ensure the property is in good order, that you are looking after it, and to discuss any problems you may be experiencing. You'll be notified when an inspection is due.

Please contact us at the earliest possible time so we can minimise any problem. Tradespeople will be alerted by us and will respond according to the nature and urgency of the task. Take simple precautions where needed (e.g. turn off water at the stopcock, isolate electrics or gas at the mains).

You cannot have any pets unless we have permission from the landlord (and from us) in writing. Please consult us before getting a pet and submit a written request stating the age, type and breed.

Yes — you should consider taking out contents insurance to cover accidental damage to the landlord's contents, fixtures and fittings. The landlord is responsible for insuring the building itself.

The deposit normally equates to 5 weeks' rent and is held throughout the tenancy in a government-approved deposit scheme. It's returned at the end of the tenancy subject to the property being left in good condition, with no claim for damages beyond fair wear and tear.

You're responsible for ensuring the rent is paid in full and on time. We have facilities to set up a standing order so payments come directly from your bank to our designated account. Remember to cancel the standing order before leaving the property.

Utility bills, including council tax, are your responsibility unless stated otherwise in the tenancy agreement. You'll need to choose your supplier on moving in and ensure accounts are closed when you vacate.

Once the landlord has agreed to accept your application (subject to references and contract), we'll ask for a holding deposit equating to one week's rent. On successful referencing, the holding deposit counts towards the total balance of rent and deposit owed before the tenancy start date. You risk losing your deposit if you provide inaccurate or misleading information, fail a right-to-rent check, do not take all reasonable steps to enter into a tenancy agreement, or unilaterally withdraw your application.

Rent is normally paid by standing order from your bank account so it arrives on time each month or term, and you are responsible for making sure it is paid in full and on the due date. We will set up the payment details with you when you sign. Remember to cancel the standing order once your tenancy ends.

On move-in day you will collect your keys once the tenancy has started and any outstanding balance is paid. You should receive an inventory and schedule of condition — check it carefully, note any existing marks or damage, and return it promptly so you are not held responsible at the end. Take your own dated photos too, and make sure you know where the stopcock, fuse board and meters are.

At the end of your tenancy you should leave the property clean and clear of belongings, return all keys, and settle any final bills. Take meter readings and dated photos. The property is compared against the move-in inventory, and your deposit is returned through the protection scheme less any agreed deductions for damage beyond fair wear and tear, cleaning or unpaid rent.

Report any maintenance issue to us as soon as possible so we can deal with it quickly — the sooner we know, the sooner it is fixed. For genuine emergencies such as a major leak, total loss of heating in winter, or a gas or electrical safety concern, contact us straight away and take immediate safety steps where you can (for example turning off the water at the stopcock).

The majority of our student houses are let furnished, with beds, wardrobes, desks and communal furniture provided so you can move straight in. Furnishing can vary by property, so the listing and your viewing will confirm exactly what is included. White goods such as a fridge-freezer and washing machine are typically provided.

It depends on whether you signed a joint tenancy or individual tenancies. On a joint tenancy the remaining housemates are collectively responsible for the full rent, so you would usually need to find a replacement tenant (which we can help advertise). On individual tenancies each room is let separately, so one person leaving does not affect the others. We will always talk you through the options.