Letting Private Accommodation

If you are unsuccessful in gaining a room in halls, or simply choose to live in privately rented accommodation, we would advise in the first instance that you start your search at studentpad.co.uk.

Unfortunately, this office does not have the resources to view the properties advertised. We do not act as an agent for these private property owners and cannot enter into any form of agreement on behalf of a student. However, this office will assist students with any difficulties which may arise between students and landlords.

There are a number of points to remember when you are looking at prospective properties to rent. Try to find out as much as you can before visiting the property, to avoid wasting time. Think about the location, look it up on the map. Is it easy to get to the university campus? How accessible are the public transport links? Is it close to shops?

For how many months to you require your tenancy? The majority of properties are looking for a minimum of 6 - 12 months. As you are signing a binding contract, you must be aware that placements or study leave may require you to continue paying rent when you are not living in the property. If you are sharing property with friends and one student decides to move out, who is responsible for finding a replacement tenant and who is responsible for the rent until a replacement is found? It is important to discuss these issues prior to signing a leasing agreement so you are aware of all eventualities.

If possible view the property with a friend, or let a friend know the address of the property you are going to view for your own safety.

What will it Cost?

Depending on the area, you should budget for anything between £225 - £325 per month. As well as rent you will usually have to pay bills for heating and electricity, and your share of the telephone bill and TV license. Normally the landlord will require a month's rent in advance as well as a deposit (often the same amount as a month's rent). Don't hand over any cash or cheque to a landlord or letting agent without getting a receipt stating the amount and what it is for. The receipt should have the date, address of the property and the name and signature of the person you have paid.

Your tenancy agreement should clearly state: -

The type of tenancy it is;
The date the tenancy starts;
The amount of rent payable and when it is due;
The length of tenancy;
Any rent review clause and
The rights and obligations of both the tenant and the landlord.

There are also a number of health and safety issues you should consider. A list of details to be aware of are as follows -

Gas Safety:
Any property which has fixed or moveable equipment using any form of gas as its energy source is subject to legal requirements to ensure gas safety. It is the responsibility of the owner of the property to arrange for all gas equipment to be serviced each year. The owner should possess a Landlord's Gas Safety Record to indicate the work has been done. Prospective tenants should therefore insist on seeing an up-to-date certificate before renting a property where gas is used. If the landlord is unable to show you proof of an annual gas safety check, DO NOT RENT THE PROPERTY.

Property Licensing:
If you share a house or flat with others and you are not living as a single family, your home is likely to be known as a house (or flat) in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and will have to meet extra fire safety standards ranging from smoke detectors in kitchens and halls to fire extinguishers, fire doors and separate means of escape - depending on its size. If you are concerned about fire safety with the house or flat, consult the council.

Fire Safety:
All furniture and furnishing in rented property should now comply with the 1989 Fire and Furniture Regulations, particularly with regard to flammability tests. Items of furniture such as beds, sofas and armchairs that comply should be clearly labelled to that effect. It is also a good idea to ensure that smoke detectors are fitted in the premises.

Contacting owners to arrange viewing:
When contacting an owner or agent to arrange to view a property, be sure to check that it at least broadly matches your requirements, particularly in terms of location, price, general facilities and length of tenancy. This can save time, money and wasted effort. You may be required to provide character references before signing a lease, so try to ensure you can contact any potential referees at short notice. It can be helpful to be flexible with regard to rent, location and size of property (i.e. how many people the accommodation will hold).

Student groups often rent a property that is a little larger than they actually require, then proceed to advertise any extra vacant rooms. There are notice boards for this purpose at the Accommodation Office in the Corstorphine Campus. There is not usually a problem in letting spare rooms around April - September, although it can become harder once the academic year has started. If you do plan to offer extra rooms out to other students, do ensure the offer will be attractive to them. Price and location are always important factors, as will the size of the room on offer. Single rooms of reasonable size are usually easily marketable, but you should be aware that twin rooms, however large and conveniently situated, can prove a problem to let, except, perhaps, to couples.

Please do not underestimate the length of time it can take to find suitable accommodation, as competition for rented accommodation is high. August / September are particularly busy months in Edinburgh, we therefore strongly recommend you take steps to organise your accommodation if possible prior to this period.

Other Useful Contact Details:
REMEMBER: Prior to signing any tenancy agreement, read it carefully and check everything prior to signing. If you are worried seek advice through the Student Advice and Development Manager within the Student Union or the Student Accommodation Office. Below are some other organisations that can be contacted

Citizens Right Office, Southside Community Center, Nicholson Street, Tel: 0131 667 6339. Open Mondays and Wednesdays only, 10am-12.30pm.
Citizens Advice Bureau, 58 Dundas Street, Tel: 0131 557 1500.
Free University Legal Dispensary, Old , South Bridge, Tel 0131 650 1000. Open every Wednesday 6.30 - 7.45pm, no appointment necessary (Staff/students).

The Gas Safety Advice Line - Tel - 0800 300 363
British Gas Emergency Line - Tel - 0800 111 999.

For more information, contact: Accommodation Office on tel: +44 (0) 131 474 0000.