Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve heard stories of people not getting their deposits back. Can an agency do this, and how can I stop it from happening to me?
From 6th April 2007, all deposits taken by landlords and agents for Assured Shorthold Tenancies in England and Wales must be protected by a Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme. Ensure that your landlord or agent comply with this. It is worth mentioning that Kexgill don’t charge deposits but that if a student is to sign with a company/branch that does, ensure that your deposit is protected by the DPS (Deposit Protection Service) and keep all of the relevant paperwork. Take notes of the property’s interior or, better still, take photographs.
I’m about to go into my third year and I need to find somewhere quiet where I can study - what locations do you recommend?
The final year of university is often where students get down to some serious studying. Houses for small groups of say 3 or 4 are often a better option. Locations will vary from city to city, so do your homework and look at what is around you at each potential property. What is probably a bigger issue, purely on the basis that most student properties will be in a similar area to each other, is the people you are living with. Advertising for a tenant to share with you means that you will hardly know the person, so stay with people you have associated with over the course of the year at university. Be sure to make the right choice, a year is a long time!
What is your advice on finding good housemates?
Think really carefully about your housemates. Living with the life and soul of the party might seem like a great idea, but not when you need a good night’s sleep. Remember you are entering into financial obligations with these people too. Housemates with expensive tastes and habits may be slow with the cash when the gas bill arrives. We offer all inclusive rents making it far easier of tenants to budget.
My contract runs out at the end of June 2010 – when should I start looking for a new place?
It’s never too early to start looking for a house for the next year. Until you start looking you can’t appreciate the cast differences in price and standards. Plus, things that you thought were really important may not seem as vital once you have viewed a few places. It’s always worth looking slightly earlier than most other students to give you a head start and prevent any last minute panic. As is often the case when looking for top quality student accommodation, the best always goes first.