How many of us actually read all the terms and conditions while submitting any form or agreement? Most of us just skip to the end, tick the checkbox and submit the document. However, this can lead to major misunderstandings and rule issues in the future. When it comes to student housing contracts in Manchester student accommodation, it’s crucial to read between the lines before signing the contract. Taking the time to understand the terms can save you from potential problems and ensure a smooth tenancy. This blog serves as an enlightening guide that covers everything you need to know about student accommodation agreements during your stay in Manchester.
- Types of Tenancy Agreements
First of all, you will need to know the different types of housing agreements. Usually, there are three types of contracts depending on in which part of the UK you are living. In England, students have to sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement (AST), while Scotland landlords demand a private residential tenancy agreement. In Wales, it is likely to have a standard occupation contract.
As a leading city in England, accommodation owners near the University of Manchester expect to sign an AST agreement with students. Beyond this, you also need to understand whether you have a joint or an individual tenancy agreement. Most agreements are individual, only shared flats have joint agreements. The most desirable individual contract is between each tenant and the landlord. The joint tenancy agreement holds all residents collectively responsible for property and rent payment.
- Small Print AKA Contract Terms
Now that you have understood the main types of agreement, let’s move to the second most crucial part of a contract—terms and conditions. Usually, the agreement is so long that we skip the whole thing without reading. This can miss important details and cause issues in the future. Ensure reading the contract carefully and thoroughly before signing it.
Keep the following points in mind:
- Start Date and End Date
- Every tenant’s name is included in the contract.
- Your Obligations (Dos and Don’ts during your stay)
- Rent Amount and Person’s name who is liable for it.
- Bills Included
- Deposit Requirements
Apart from this, if you come across anything odd, if you want to correct or add to the contract, be fearless to reach out to the landlord.
- Rent and Deposit
As a student, you should verify the terms and conditions regarding rent and deposit amount and payment. Understand the amount of rent and make sure that it matches what the landlord advertised when you first viewed the property. Moreover, do not forget to check the frequency of payments. Some accommodation houses prefer to receive rent quarterly or termly instead of monthly rent options.
- Guarantors
Most landlords require a guarantor with each tenant. If the student can’t pay the rent on time, the guarantors (usually parents) will be held accountable. It gives the landlord confidence that they won’t be left at a loss if you encounter difficulties in keeping up with the rent. It would be a very bad thing if your landlord had to chase your guarantor for installments. If this gets worsed, your guarantor has to face the court. In case you cannot arrange the guarantor, you have to make full payment.
Regarding the deposit, make sure that you are only paying one month’s rent (sometimes a few months’ rent). They are gathered prior to the start of the tenancy to safeguard against unpaid rent or property damage while you’re living there. Moreover, all the deposits that the landlords take are lawfully registered with a government-backed deposit protection scheme within 30 days. Ensure that your landlord is part of the scheme and that they have submitted your deposit to protect.
- Inventory
An inventory outlines all the items in the property, penning down their conditions and location. Before signing the contract, take some time to cross-check all the inventory items and their conditions. Also, check that any discrepancies are documented and agreed upon. Landlords usually hand you this list upon your arrival at the property. Usually, the owners are present while you are verifying the list of items. However, if the concerned person is not present, do not be afraid of asking. This will avoid any future misunderstandings.
- Bills, Repairs and Maintenance
It is essential to understand your responsibilities as a resident of the property to take care of repairs and maintenance. Make sure that exactly who is responsible for handling issues during your stay at the accommodation. Remember to acquire the information about the person to contact during emergency and non-emergency repairs. Ask the landlord to provide a list of contact details, property management personnel or maintenance team. Additionally, be a good resident and report repairs you are having via email, phone or any online portal. This will ensure that the repair issues will be addressed promptly.
Bills are another significant aspect of checking the contract. Most properties cover the utility bills such as gas, water, electricity, heating, and wifi. However, it is your responsibility to clearly understand which bills are included in the rent and which you have to take care of. Furthermore, you must also check that the TV license and internet recharges are included or will be additional costs to students. As the payment process is not included in the rent process, consider confirming the ways of bill payment.
- Summer Holiday Periods
Summers are always great for students as they have holidays and have fun. However, students must stay alert about the rent payment in the holiday season. Although the yearly repair work is in this season, most landlords expect half the payment during holidays. If in case, you have to live there in the summer season, you must pay the full amount.
The Bottom Line of House Contracts
Studying abroad and enjoying the stay in accommodation give vibrant experiences to students. They take immense efforts to find the right home, just like they study hard to get into prestigious universities. However, a single mistake in the process of renting the home/accommodation can lead to chaos. Especially in terms of signing the contract and accepting the norms, a keen observation and a good elderly advice are paramount. If you have any queries, you can contact student unions, universities, seniors, or legal professionals.