How to be a happy

house hunter
Peterborough

aru.ac.uk/housing
2 2
Contents

Welcome 4
Things to think about before you start your search 5
What type of property? 6
Where to look 7
House hunting hints and tips 8
Arranging a viewing 11
Inspection checklist 12
After the viewing 14
Understanding costs 15
Understanding deposits 17
Understanding contracts 19
Understanding credit checks 21
Moving in 22
Understanding obligations 24
Community Living 26
Moving out 27
What to do if things go wrong 29
FAQs 30
Further help and advice 31

3
Welcome

Our guide aims to provide you with all the advice and
information you need to find accommodation and have
a safe and enjoyable experience living in the local
community.
You can contact our Tenancy Support Team if you have any questions
about living in the private sector or need any help or advice:
[email protected]
Cambridge & Peterborough: +44 (0)1223 698900
Chelmsford: +44 (0)1245 683110
Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 9.30am–4.30pm
aru.ac.uk/privatesector

4
Things to think about before
you start your search
Take your time Which part of the city do you want
Choosing where you’re going to live is a big to live in?
decision that can impact on your finances, Remember that rent levels vary depending
friendships and student experience. Tenancy on different factors, such as distance from
agreements are legally binding, so it’s the city centre and public transport links.
important you don’t rush into a decision. Do you want a convenient location for pubs,
shops and the campus? Are there good
If you’re a current student looking for public transport links? Can you get home
accommodation in the private sector for safely?
the next academic year we advise waiting
until late February or March before you Do you want specific facilities?
start looking. This gives you a chance to
For example, a shower, bath, multiple
make strong friendship groups and allows
bathrooms, bike storage, double glazing,
landlords time to get their properties on the
separate living room and kitchen area?
market, so you’ll have more choice. Don’t
worry, if you’re joining us in September
2022 as this is the first year it will be a little Who do you want to live with?
different and we want to reassure you that Think carefully about who you want to live
there is still time to find accommodation. with. You might come to regret signing a
contract with people who you’ve only known
We’ll be holding regular House Hunting for a few weeks, and if you fall out before or
events where you’ll be able to pick up lots after you move in, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to
of useful information about renting in the get out of the contract.
private sector.
Spend some time getting to know your
You can find out more, including the dates potential housemates and talk about what
at: aru.ac.uk/privatesector you all want out of your accommodation
before you start house hunting. Sharing a
If you’re new to the area, try to arrive with house with people who have similar attitudes
time to spare before your course starts to and lifestyles can make a big difference. It’s
go on property viewings – it could take a also important to make sure that your lifestyle
couple of days to find the right thing for doesn’t give neighbours cause for complaint.
you. To take the pressure off your search, Don’t forget, you’re ambassadors for ARU.
consider organising somewhere temporary
to stay. You can find details of short stay Is the gender balance right?
accommodation and bed and breakfasts on
Mixed gender houses generally work better.
our website: aru.ac.uk/shortstay

5
Do all bedrooms have to be the We’d never recommend signing a contract
same size? or paying any money before you have
viewed the property. If a landlord or agent
If not, who will have the small rooms and will
is pushing you for money before you’ve
there be rent differences?
viewed the house it could be a scam.

Do you all want the same?

Do you all want the same type of property? Never sign anything until you are fully
Do you all want the same contract length aware of your rights and responsibilities
period? as a tenant.

What type of property?

Shared student houses involve students Lodgings are where a room is rented in a
renting a room in a house and sharing the house which is shared with the landlord
kitchen, communal areas and usually the and/or their close family. Generally the
bathroom. The size of the property and the kitchen, bathroom and common areas are
number of other students you would share shared, although this can vary, along with
with varies. any extra services provided. This can be a
slightly cheaper option, but remember you
Bedsits/studios are generally one room will be living in someone else’s home and
properties with the kitchen and bedroom in living by their rules.
one room, and an ensuite bathroom. These
are ideal for individuals wanting their own
space. In bedsits, you may have to share the
bathroom and toilet with other residents.

Self-contained flats normally have a

separate living/kitchen area, bedroom and
bathroom. These are suitable for individual
lets or for couples.

6
Peterborough
- The local area
Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery Inflata Nation
With free entry this is the perfect opportunity A great way of spending free time with
to learn more about the history of friends, burning off some energy, reducing
Peterborough including the history of its stress levels and having giggle.
railways and modern industry. inflatanation.com
peterboroughmuseum.org.uk
Central Park
Peterborough Cathedral Spend some time outdoors not only is there
One of the most famous places, that people a brilliant green space, but you’ll also find an
always come to visit it is our Peterborough aviary, bowling greens, hard and grass tennis
Cathedral. Peterborough Cathedral is one courts, volleyball, a croquet law, table tennis
of the finest Norman cathedrals in England. and Café. With lots of events being held
Founded as a monastic community in 654 throughout the year.
AD, it became one of the most significant visitpeterborough.com/things-to-do/
medieval abbeys in the country, the burial central-park-p874451
place of two queens and the scene of Civil
War upheavals. Showcase Cinema
peterborough-cathedral.org.uk
Spend time with friends seeing a movie at the
Showcase Cinema Peterborough. Apply for
Theatre an Insider card free of charge to get further
The New Theatre is based in city centre with discounts.
popular acts and shows throughout the year. showcasecinemas.co.uk
newtheatre-peterborough.com

7
Where to look

StudentPad is our official property website, Other options

listing private sector accommodation in We strongly encourage you to use
Cambridge, Chelmsford and Peterborough. StudentPad as we have made sure that gas
The site is a great place to start your search and electrical safety certificates and other
as you’ll find local shared student houses, legal requirements are in place. However,
halls of residence, studios/bedsits and self you may also find the following useful:
contained flats that are available to rent
from private landlords and agents. There are University notice boards often advertise
usually a number of lodgings available too. accommodation. These may be from
landlords or from students looking for people
There’s also a message board on StudentPad to share with.
which allows students to post about available
rooms in their rented house. This is great if Local newspapers will sometimes have
you’re searching on your own but want to live accommodation listings. These newspapers
with others as you can chat with the other are available from the local newsagents or
tenants before you move in. If you respond to online:
an advert to take over someone else’s tenancy,
you, the existing tenant and the landlord Peterborough Telegraph
should all sign paperwork to say the tenancy is peterboroughtoday.co.uk/property
now in your name.
Lettings/Estate agents let accommodation
There’s also a housing advice section that has on behalf of someone else.
information on understanding contracts and
your rights, along with tenancy deposit law. Websites advertising house shares and
lodgings can be found with a quick internet
You can access StudentPad at search. Not all sites are monitored so be wary
angliastudentpad.co.uk. It’s available to all of fake adverts and scams.
ARU students and applicants who have rightmove.co.uk/students
accepted a conditional or unconditional offer. zoopla.co.uk
You’ll need a password to access StudentPad. primelocation.com
Email [email protected] with your accommodationforstudents.com
Student ID number to be sent the password.

Be aware of scams. Never part with any

money or sign any paperwork until you have
seen the property. If something doesn’t feel
right, don’t take it any further. We recommend
you avoid using money transfer websites and
always get proof of payment.

8
House hunting
hints and tips
Individuals If you want to live on your own, Lodgings
then check Studentpad and agency listings If you’re on a strict budget, you might want
for studios, one bedroom flats and bedsits. to look at lodgings. These can be cheaper
Many of the private halls of residence also and offer some flexibility on contract length.
have studio apartments. If you’re happy to Remember you will be living in someone’s
share a property, look for landlords who’ll home so try to get any house rules sorted,
let rooms in a property individually, or check and in writing, before you move in. Some
the StudentPad message board to see if any other things to consider:
tenants are advertising a vacant room in their
rented property. Water use and laundry
• You should agree with your landlord
Couples/two person groups Sometimes how many baths/showers you can take
a landlord advertising a ‘shared house for and check if there are any restrictions on
three’ will let to two tenants at a negotiable when you can use the bathroom.
rent; don’t be afraid to ask them if they will • Laundry facilities may be offered, but
consider this option. Alternatively you could sometimes at an extra charge.
consider booking a studio flat or taking
two individual rooms or bedsits within one Telephone
property. • You should ask for permission from
the landlord to use the telephone for
Families Landlords advertising through incoming or outgoing calls, and should
StudentPad rarely let to families. If you’re check if the cost is included in your rent.
looking for family accommodation, you can • A phone card or charge card could be
get in touch with the Residential Service cheaper when making outgoing calls.
for advice. Contact details can be found on
page 31 of this booklet. Be courteous
• On occasions when you expect to be
Groups The most common number of home late, it’s helpful to let the landlord
bedrooms for student properties is four or know in advance.
five. It can be harder to find houses with • Most landlords will allow visitors, but it’s
six or more bedrooms, so you may need a good idea to introduce them to the
to compromise on other aspects of the landlord first.
• If you’d like to have an overnight guest,
property, or consider splitting into small
agree this with your landlord in advance.
groups.

It’s important to respect your landlord’s

property and their privacy.

9
10
Arranging a viewing

Before the viewing outside of the house. It’s also a good idea
Have a think about what your property to visit the area after dark with someone to
‘must-haves’ are and keep these in mind make sure you feel comfortable in the area
when viewing. It’s also a good idea to have at night.
a think about what you might be happy to
compromise on if needed. This property may be your home for the next
12 months so you need to make sure it’s safe
When you’ve seen an advert that interests and secure. Remember to assess fire safety
you, contact the landlord and arrange and security, as well as the quality of the
a viewing. Remember to ask for the full furniture and fittings. All furniture and soft
address of the property as this will probably furnishings provided in rented properties
not be displayed on the advert for security must comply with fire safety regulations.
reasons. All properties on StudentPad have a Beds, mattresses, sofas, etc must all be fire
link to a map that will show you the location retardant – it’s advisable to check for labels
of the property, as well as a distance to make sure these items are compliant.
calculator to the university.
A house in multiple occupation (HMO)
should have mains wired smoke detectors,
After making an appointment to and carbon monoxide detectors if there are
view: appliances that use gas, liquid or solid fuel
• Keep to the agreed time. like coal or wood (you can find out more
• If you’re delayed, call the landlord to about HMO’s on page 12). Fire doors are also
explain. necessary in certain properties.
• If you’re unable to attend a viewing
always inform the landlord. Take your time to look at each room, and try
• Never call at a property unannounced, not to let the landlord rush you. Be prepared
as this could disturb existing tenants. to ask the landlord questions – and expect
adequate answers. If the current tenants are
Tip: For your personal safety, try not there, ask them about the property.
to view a property on your own. If it can’t be
avoided, make sure you let someone know On the next page you’ll find a property
where you’re going. viewing checklist you may find useful, along
with important questions to ask the landlord.
Viewing a property
Go in the daytime so you can have a good
look at the front and back streets and the

11
Inspection checklist
Below are some handy prompts of things to look out for and ask the landlord/
agent during a viewing.

Outside the property Do all the rooms have suitable curtains

Is there a garden? Who maintains it? or blinds?

Are the windows in good condition? Is there an intruder alarm system?

Are the external doors in good condition? Is there a fire alarm system?

Is the roof in good condition? Are any Is there a carbon monoxide detector?
slates or chimney pots missing? Are there any fire extinguishers in the
Are the gutters free of rubbish and property?
vegetation? Is there a fire blanket in the kitchen?
Are all drains running freely? Are there means of escape in the event
Are there adequate facilities for refuse of fire?
disposal and recycling? If there is a fireplace, has it recently been
Is there bicycle storage? swept?

Security and safety Furniture and fittings

Are all external doors solid and secure? Do all the rooms have a bed, desk,
wardrobe and suitable floor coverings?
Does the front door have a viewing panel
or spy hole? Does all the furniture comply with
regulations on fire safety?
Do all ground floor windows have locks?
Does all the furniture (that you see) come
Does the front door have a five-lever with the property?
mortice lock?
Are there enough kitchen cupboards for
If the front door has glazing, is the glass everyone?
wired, reinforced or double glazed?
Is all the furniture in good repair? Does any
Are any windows broken or cracked? need replacing?

12
 Are there enough chairs for residents to Electricity and gas
eat a meal together? Does the heating cover all areas of the
Are the cooker, grill and oven in house, and does it work?
working order? Do all of the rooms have adequate
Is the fridge and freezer in good condition electrical sockets that work?
with enough shelving space? How does the heating work
Are there television aerial points in all (consider costs)?
rooms? Will there be adequate heating for
Is there a connection point for telephones the winter?
and the Internet? Do the extractor fans in the kitchen and
bathroom work?
Plumbing Have you seen the current year’s gas
Is the bathroom in good condition? safety certificate (completed by a Gas
Safety Register engineer)?
Are there enough bathrooms/toilets?
When were the electrics last safety
Is there a shower? checked?
Are any of the fittings dripping or is there Can the landlord evidence this?
any evidence of leaks?
Have appliances been Portable Appliance
Is the water pressure high enough? Tested (PAT)?
Does the hot water get hot enough?

Do all the taps work and does the toilet

flush?

How does the hot water work

(consider costs)?

13
After the viewing

Choosing your accommodation is a big Gas Safe Register Carbon monoxide from
decision, so take time to consider all your gas appliances kills on average 40 people a
options. Tenancy agreements are legally year in England and Wales. Make sure you
binding and you can’t usually be released have seen the Gas Safety Certificate for the
once you’ve signed one. Talk things through property. Landlords are required, by law, to
with people you’ll be sharing with and ask provide you with a copy of these when, or
to re-visit the property if you wish to. before, you move in. They should also make
sure a registered engineer inspects the
Get your documents ready appliances annually.

Before you can sign a tenancy, landlords

Energy Performance Certificate If the
must conduct Right to Rent checks to make
landlord does not live in the property
sure that you can legally rent a property. So
they must also give you a copy of the
make sure you have documents such as
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). The
your passport and visa ready for checking.
certificate is valid for 10 years from the issue
They may also need to do a credit check
date. The EPC grades the building’s energy
and ask for evidence of your employment or
and carbon emission efficiency from ‘A’ to
student status.
‘G’. ‘A’ is the most efficient. It is illegal for a
landlord with a property who’s energy rating
Make sure the property is safe is lower than E to rent out their property.
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
Properties that are occupied by 2 or more Electrical safety Your landlord needs
unrelated people are known as HMOs to ensure that the electrical installation
(Houses in Multiple Occupation). Landlords and all electrical appliances are safe with
or agents managing a property lived in by little risk to you as tenants. Make sure the
five or more unrelated people are legally landlord has plans for periodic inspections
required to get a licence from the local and testing of the electrics in place. If the
council. This is to ensure the property is safe property is a HMO the mains installation
and properly managed. must be inspected every five years. Ask
to see the property’s Electrical Installation
A list of properties that have been issued Condition Report which will prove this.
a HMO licence is available on each local
council’s website so you can find out which Other
HMOs are licensed and who manages them.
If your landlord isn’t living in the same
This should help you find good quality
property they must also provide you with
accommodation.
a copy of the Governments ‘How to Rent’
guide and the details of their chosen Deposit
Protection Scheme (more on page 16).

14
Understanding costs

Before you sign a tenancy, make sure the a University closure period. If such a rent is
property will be affordable. Seek budgeting chargeable, agree this with the landlord before
advice either online or via ARU’s Money you move in.
Advice Team. There may be other costs
on top of the rent you hadn’t considered, Bills
although these are now tightly regulated
If utilities (gas, water, electricity) aren’t
following the introduction of the Tenant
included, allow £10-12 per week. Don’t forget to
Fees Act.
budget for extras like telephone and internet! If
possible, ask the landlord or previous tenants
Rent about the utility costs.
• How much is the rent?
• Does it vary between different rooms in the Television licence If you or your housemates
house? Is this clearly documented? have a TV or stream/download BBC iPlayer
• Are any bills included in the rent (gas, content on a mobile or other device, you’ll
water, electricity, tv licence, internet, or need a TV licence. One licence may cover
telephone?) How much are they likely to multiple devices in a shared house, depending
be? on your tenancy agreement. You can visit
• When and how is the rent payable? tvlicensing.co.uk for more information.
• Does the weekly rate of the rent stay the
same throughout the tenancy, even if the Insurance The landlord’s insurance won’t
installments aren’t equal? normally cover your personal belongings for
loss or theft, so you should make your own
Check that you’re not being overcharged for arrangements. Look around to find the best
rent by comparing rental costs with other insurance package for you. The Students’
similar properties in the area. Ensure you know Union and the Residential Service office may
how often the rent is due and the amount to be have further information. You may also be
paid. Rent is normally paid in advance and may able to get cover under your parents’ contents
be due weekly or monthly. You’re expected to insurance.
pay the full amount due, without the landlord
having to ask for it. Council Tax If you move in to a property where
all rooms are occupied by full time, registered
It’s a good idea to ask for a receipt when you’ve students you won’t have to pay Council Tax.
made a payment in case you need to refer to it Your landlord may ask you to provide a Council
later. It should detail the date the payment was Tax Exemption Certificate which can be
made, the amount paid, and the time period it requested from our iCentre. If anybody living in
covers. If you’re paying by direct debit, always a shared house is not a student, the property
keep copies of your bank statements proving may become liable for Council Tax. You might
that the right amount has been paid. also need to start paying Council Tax if your
accommodation contract is longer than
Retainer rent This is a charge you may be the course dates stated on your exemption
asked to pay if you are staying in lodgings certificate.
and wish to return to the same place after 15
16
Understanding deposits

Landlords will normally ask for some money Tenancy Deposit Protection is designed to
before you move in to a property. The make sure:
amount will vary, but there are strict laws • You get a decision as to how much of
about what landlords can charge. Make sure your deposit is going to be returned
you know exactly how much you’ll need within 10 days from the end of your
to pay and what it’s for. Understand when tenancy. Any part of the deposit kept
it’s payable, if it’s refundable and if there back after this date will remain protected
are any reasons why the landlord could be until the dispute is resolved. The exact
entitled to keep some or all of the money. arrangements depend on the type of
scheme used.
Damage deposits are returned at the end of • Landlords who don’t protect tenancy
the tenancy. If you cause any damage to the deposits may have to pay their tenant
property or have rent arrears or outstanding back up to three times the amount of the
bills when you move out, then the landlord original deposit.
may be entitled to keep some or all of this
deposit. If the landlord does keep some of For further advice on resolving disputes
the deposit they must fully explain why. you can visit: gov.uk/tenancy-deposit-
protection/disputes-and-problems
Unless the total rent for the property will
be more than £50,000 a year, you can’t If you have a Licence Agreeement your
be charged more than 5 week’s rent as a landlord is not legally required to protect
damage deposit. your deposit in a Government backed
scheme. If a return of deposit is disputed,
All deposits taken by landlords for Assured you may have to seek specialist advice.
Shorthold Tenancies (more information
on contract types on Page 16), must Holding deposits are capped at 1 week’s
be protected under a Tenancy Deposit rent and are usually a non-refundable sum
Protection Scheme. You should ask your paid to the landlord to hold the property for
landlord about the details of the scheme you. Generally once you’ve paid a holding
before signing any agreements or making a deposit, the landlord shouldn’t show the
payment. The landlord is required to provide property or offer it to anyone else. You
details about how your deposit is protected should only pay a holding deposit if you
within 30 days of receiving your deposit. are fairly sure you want the property. If
you change your mind, you won’t get your
holding deposit back.

17
Unless you agree something different with Advanced rent
your landlord, they can only keep the holding Some landlords may charge you ‘advanced
deposit for 15 days, and it must be refunded rent’ instead of a deposit – this money will be
to you within a further 7 days of this date if no deducted from your first rent payment once
tenancy agreement is entered into. Landlords the tenancy has begun. This is a permitted
can only keep the holding deposit if you payment according to the Tenant Fees Act
change your mind, fail a Right to Rent check 2019. There isn’t a cap on the amount they can
or provide false or misleading information. ask, but all rent installments need to equate
to the same weekly rate throughout the
If you enter into a tenancy agreement, the tenancy, so make sure the landlord isn’t hiding
holding deposit may either be returned to any banned fees within any rent payments.
you, or can become part of your first rent
installment or the damage deposit if you and Whichever type of deposit you pay, you
the landlord agree to this. should always get a receipt which states
the amount paid and whether it is a
Check your holding deposit agreement returnable deposit. Keep the receipt safe as
carefully. In some cases, it could actually you may need to refer to it at a later date.
commit you to taking the property even
before you have signed a tenancy agreement.

18
Understanding contracts

Many of the terms in a written agreement Below is a brief summary of the different
for accommodation are laid down in law. types of contracts you might come across.
Make sure you fully understand all the For a more detailed description we would
terms before you sign the agreement. recommend you read the guide: Assured
Once you’ve signed, you are bound by the Shorthold Tenancies – a Guide for Tenants.
terms for the full length of your tenancy. If You can find a link to this booklet online at
necessary, request to take a copy away and aru.ac.uk/privatesector
seek professional advice.
Types of contract
Make sure the contracts include the
Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST)
following and that you understand and
You’ll find that the majority of properties are
agree with them:
let under this type of contract, which can be
• the start date of the tenancy
made for a specific ‘fixed’ period of time; one
• the end date of the tenancy
academic year, for example. You normally
• the amount of rent
won’t find one for a period of less than six
• if the rent varies between different
months. You can’t give notice to leave early
rooms, make sure this is clearly
during the period of the contract, unless
documented
there is a break clause in your contract. Once
• the dates on which rent should be paid
the fixed term has ended, AST’s normally
• any terms which deal with reviewing
become Assured Periodic Tenancies. This
the rent
means they continue on a weekly or monthly
• deposit details
basis until you, or the landlord, give notice.
• responsibilities and expectations of
tenants
Joint Assured Shorthold Tenancies
• responsibilities and expectations of
Most students have joint tenancy
the landlord
agreements which means that all the tenants
• notice period and how this can be given
sign the same contract rather than having
(by both landlord and tenant).
separate agreements with the landlord.
A joint tenancy means that each tenant is
If any improvement works are going to
‘jointly and severally’ liable for the rent of the
be carried out before the start of the
full property, as well as the bills, deposits and
agreement, make sure that details of the
any other charges. If any tenants leave before
work are added to the contract along with
the end of the fixed term, the remaining
confirmation that it will be finished before
tenants will be liable for the ongoing rent if
you move in.
the former tenant doesn’t pay.

19
Individual Assured Shorthold Tenancies Permitted payments
This means that you’re only liable for the rent The Tenant Fees Act has tightened up on
for your room but have a joint right of access charges that landlords can request during
to all the shared facilities of the property (i.e. your tenancy so read it carefully. The
bathroom, kitchen etc). landlord cannot ‘fine’ you or make a profit,
they can only request to be reimbursed for
Licence Agreements This type of contract any losses. They can also only charge you
occurs where a landlord agrees to provide for breaking a clause that is clearly stated in
an extra service that requires them, (or a your tenancy agreement.
nominated person) unrestricted access to
your room. This might include things like a Permitted payments are:
cleaning service, rubbish removal or linen • up to £50 to amend the tenancy
changes. Licence agreements are common • early termination fees (to cover losses
if you reside in lodgings. only)
• default payments for late payment of
Excluded Occupier If you share rent (capped at 3% over the Bank of
accommodation with your landlord, either England interest rate and not to be
in their home as a lodger, or in a converted demanded until the payment is 14+ days
property where you and the landlord live in late)
different parts of the building, you will be • costs incurred as a result of you
an excluded occupier. On these types of breaching the tenancy (losing a key,
contract your rights are reduced. damage to building/contents etc.) This
is capped at the cost of the loss the
Verbal Agreements These are not landlord incurred, so you should request
recommended because without a written proof of how much the item/works cost.
record it can be very difficult to determine
what has been agreed if disputes arise at a
later date. A verbal agreement can be legally
binding. Make sure all details are discussed
thoroughly at the beginning of the tenancy.
This will need to include rent amounts
and payments, tenancy dates, terms and
conditions, deposits, responsibility for
bills etc.

20
Understanding credit checks
Credit checks and references Landlords prepared to pay your rent if you don’t. They
want to check that you’re going to be a good will need to sign a guarantee document
tenant. This may involve a credit check on that should state that the agreement will
your past finances, and a reference from a only last for a set period of time and, if
previous landlord. It is illegal for agents and possible, should set a limit on how much
landlords to charge you for these checks. the guarantor can be asked to pay. If you’ve
signed a joint contract you should also try
If you’re moving out of university managed to agree that the guarantor will only have to
accommodation, we can provide a reference cover the rent for their named person rather
if you’ve been a good tenant, you have no than for the whole household.
outstanding rent and your rent was paid on
time. If you’re not able to offer a UK-based
guarantor, you may be asked to pay a higher
Guarantors If you pay rent in installments amount of rent in advance, or be able to use
a landlord will probably ask for a guarantor. a a company to act as a guarantor. Please
This normally has to be someone based contact the Residential Service for advice if
in the UK who earns above a certain wage you are struggling to secure a property.
and/or who owns their own property.
Guarantors could be your parents, a family
member, friend or guardian who would be

21
Moving in

Inventory Your landlord should provide Registering with utility companies

you with an inventory which lists the items/ If you’re moving in to a property where bills
furniture provided in the property. This is so aren’t included you’ll need to arrange for
that everyone can agree on the condition the supply of water, electricity, gas and
and contents of the accommodation at the telephone/internet to be transferred into
start of the tenancy. If your landlord doesn’t your names. It’s a good idea to register all
provide one, request one or make one your names with each utilities company. This
yourself. Record all the furniture and log its makes sure that all of you are responsible
condition, record all marks on walls, doors, and should a late payment be made, you’ll
windows and worn spots on the carpets etc. all be held accountable for it. There are also
‘bill sharing’ companies who may be able
Taking photographs and video footage of to help you and your flatmates pay your
every room on the day you move in is also bills more simply. These companies don’t
a good idea as it will support your inventory usually charge for the service, but bear
and visually record the condition of the in mind you won’t have the same choice
property. Ideally use a camera which records of utility companies as they tend to have
a time and date so you can prove when the arrangements with certain providers.
photos were taken. If you’re unsure about managing your bills,
just ask your landlord or the Residential
You and the landlord will have to agree on Service.
the inventory to make it valid, but having an
agreed inventory, and evidence to support it, On the first day of your tenancy, take the
could save you issues with tenancy deposit gas, electricity and water meter readings
disputes when you move out. and write them down. When you register
with the relevant company you’ll need to
If you have any concerns about the property give them your initial reading. This will make
when you move in, report them to the sure that you don’t end up paying for any
landlord straight away. It’s always a good gas, electricity or water used by the previous
idea to follow up any verbal requests with tenants.
an email or letter so that you have a record
of the request. Make sure you state clearly
what the problem is and ask the landlord to
confirm receipt of the request and when it
will be dealt with.

22
Security Student occupied properties can
be more vulnerable to burglary, so security
should be a priority. Make sure doors and
windows are secured when no one is in and
consider leaving a low energy light on.

If you leave the property for Christmas or

Easter, take computers and other valuables
with you, and consider setting a light on a
timer.

Remember to insure your personal

belongings, and register your belongings
on the ‘Immobilise’ website
immobilise.com

You can find further information on security

and crime reports on areas by visiting:
www.police.uk

23
Understanding obligations

We want you to have a positive experience • To provide you with a copy of a valid
living in the private rented sector. To help current Gas Safety Certificate and
make sure this happens, you need to (depending on the type of tenancy) other
understand who is responsible for what. legally required documents including the
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC),
Landlord responsibilities: “How to Rent” guide and details of the
Deposit Protection Scheme used.
• To keep the structure and exterior of
the house, including drains, gutters, and • To allow you to ‘peacefully enjoy’ your
external pipes in good repair. accommodation.

• To keep the installations for the supply • Landlords have the right to enter the
of water, gas, electricity, sanitation property at reasonable times to carry
(including basins, sinks, baths and out repairs and to inspect the condition
toilets), and installations for heating and state of repair of the property. They
rooms and heating water in good repair must give at least 24 hours notice in
and proper working order. writing if they wish to enter the property
to do this. To avoid any confusion, try to
• To undertake non-urgent repairs within
have details of how to report repairs and
28 days. Urgent repairs such as plumbing
arrangements for access included in the
or sanitation should be completed
Tenancy Agreement.
within one or two days. If the fault is not
corrected within a reasonable period
of time (dependant upon the nature of Your responsibilities:
the disrepair) then seek advice from • To fulfil your responsibilities as stated in
the Residential Service or the Council’s your agreement.
Housing Advice Team.
• To act in a ‘tenant-like manner’. This
• To provide a rent book if the rent is paid means you should perform the smaller
weekly. tasks around the house such as replacing
lightbulbs, unblocking the sink when
• To provide you with the landlord’s full
clogged with waste, and cleaning the
name and address.
downstairs windows when necessary.

24
• To secure the property when you go out
– lock all the doors and windows.

• If you’re allowed to bring your own

furniture into the property, make proper
arrangements to store the owner’s
furniture somewhere where it will not be
damaged. Be aware that you’re potentially
liable if you bring items into the house
which do not comply with current safety
legislation.

• Always report any repairs you need in

writing immediately. Keep a copy in case
you need to refer to it later.

• Clean the house properly on a

regular basis.

• If you break or damage anything

(deliberately or accidentally) inform the
landlord immediately.

25
Community Living

One of the best things about renting Parking around the city
privately is that you can discover a new part If you choose to bring a car, please park
of the city. it responsibly by not blocking driveways,
respecting the parking restrictions and
Check out local independent shops and obviously follow the normal rules of the road
cafes, search online for events happening such as not parking on double yellow lines.
in your area and look out for volunteering If the property you’re renting has a garage
opportunities - there’ll be lots of things or driveway, check your tenancy agreement
happening that you’ll be sorry to miss! or with the landlord about whether you’re
allowed to use this.
Getting on with the neighbours
When you first move in, pop round and
introduce yourself to your neighbours - it will If you’re being bothered by
make everyone feel more comfortable about your neighbours
talking over any issues that arise if you know You can report any issues with your
names and faces. neighbours to the local council’s
environmental health team – things such
People who see a regular changeover as excessive noise, problems with bins or
of student tenants can get nervous pests can all be reported. Just because you
that this year will be ‘the year they have are only renting a property for a year doesn’t
bad neighbours’ - put their mind at rest give you any fewer rights than permanent
immediately by having a chat - plus it’s residents. Come and talk to the Residential
always nice to know who you’re living next Service if you need any advice.
door to.

Rubbish
A quick way to annoy your neighbours is
letting your bins overflow or leaving bins out
on the street long after collection day.
You can find out your bin collection day on
the local council’s website:

peterborough.gov.uk/residents/rubbish-
and-recycling/bins

Bins should be put out after 6pm the day

before they’re due to be collected and
brought in again by 8am the day after
they’ve been emptied.

26
Moving out

As you get to the end of your tenancy Please remember:

there are several things you’ll need to • You’ll be in breach of your contract if you
make sure you get sorted, especially if deduct your deposit from the last
you want to be in with the best chance of month’s rent.
getting your full deposit back. • If you have a Joint Tenancy Agreement and
leave a few weeks early, your deposit will
• Arrange an end of tenancy visit by the not be repaid immediately. You’ll have to
landlord to inspect the property. Agree any wait until the official end of your contract
deposit deductions with the landlord. and allow time for inspection of the
• If you pay your own bills, contact the utility property and administration processes.
companies (gas, electricity, water and
telephone) and arrange for final readings to Other things to consider:
be taken. • Has all the rent been paid?
• Cancel the television licence. • Have all the bills been paid?
• Remember to arrange for your mail to • Are there any ‘reasonable’ damage or
be redirected to your next address. You can cleaning charges that the landlord
arrange this online or at the post office for could make?
a fee. • Have all the other conditions of the
• Always allow plenty of time to clean the Tenancy Agreement been met?
house at the end of a tenancy and avoid • Has a letter been sent to the landlord or
having a party in the last few days. deposit scheme administrator requesting
• Make sure that everyone does their fair the return of the deposit?
share of the cleaning before they leave.
• Return the keys of the property to the
landlord on the day you move out.

27
28
What to do if things
go wrong
Harassment and unlawful eviction speaking to the person, explain your side and
If your landlord wants you to leave the house listen to their position. If you can’t resolve the
then there is a legal process that they must matter, you could contact the landlord who
follow before you can be evicted. This will may agree to help.
include a written notice and possibly applying
to the court for a possession order. Alternatively, you could find a mutually
agreeable third party who could act as a
If you’re evicted without the landlord following mediator and attempt to solve the problem.
the correct procedure then the landlord is If you think your housemate is committing an
committing a criminal offence. illegal act, don’t hesitate to contact the police –
it could save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
Whilst living in rented accommodation you
are also entitled to ‘quiet enjoyment’ of the If you’ve signed a contract, simply packing
property. This means that the landlord should your bags and leaving may not be an option.
not unreasonably disturb you. If the landlord You may remain liable for paying the rent for
(or someone acting on their behalf) keeps as long as your name remains on the contract,
stopping by for unannounced visits, frequently even if you’re no longer living in the property,
does not fulfill their responsibilities for basic so if you’re unsure please seek advice.
repairs, disconnects utility supplies, etc. then
this may amount to harassment which is also a Lack of maintenance and repair Always
criminal offence. seek advice if a landlord fails to make a
repair. Don’t withhold rent, this is a serious
If you’re in danger of eviction or suffering from breach of contract and could put you at risk
harassment by your landlord then contact of eviction. If you have suffered financial loss,
the Residential Service or your local Council’s inconvenience, or damage to your property
Housing Aid or Advice Centre as soon as because of disrepair, you may have a case to
possible. claim a partial rent refund from the landlord.
This could include things like losing cooking
You can find out more about your rights when facilities or the hot water supply for more than
it comes to eviction, harassment and other a day, or having to move out of your bedroom.
legal housing issues on the Citizens Advice You should discuss this situation with your
Bureau’s website and from the housing charity, landlord first and state clearly in writing why
Shelter (contact details on page 31). you feel compensation is warranted.

Housemate disputes There’s no set rules If you can’t reach an agreement and are
for how to deal with disputes between thinking of deducting money from your rent,
housemates as the type of problems that make sure you seek advice. If the landlord
come up can vary. The most important thing disagrees with you they could take money
is to use your common sense and be willing from your deposit and/or take action in the
to communicate with your housemates. Try county court to recover any shortfall in rent.

29
FAQs

Here’s a few of the most common questions to look at any terms in a contract you
you’ve been asking us, and our answers: might be unsure about, although we
aren’t legally trained so you may wish to
1. Will all the best houses go first? get the contract checked by the local
Unless you are looking for family Citizens Advice Bureau too.
accommodation or properties with more
than 6 bedrooms, there will likely be 4. Should I pay anything before I sign?
plenty of good quality options for you – Never pay any money before you’ve at
no matter what the Lettings Agents say! least read a draft copy of the housing
contract – you can’t know if you want the
2. When should I start house hunting? property if you don’t know the terms of
We think February/March time is the the agreement. You might get asked to
best time, which is why we launch our pay a ‘holding deposit’ before you sign
House Hunting season then. But there’s an agreement and this is fine, so long
no harm in getting prepared before then as the amount doesn’t exceed 1 week’s
– start by figuring out how much rent you rent, and you know the circumstances
can afford, where you want to live and in which you wouldn’t get the money
who you want to live with. Also consider refunded. It’s now illegal for letting
anything you’re willing to compromise agents and landlords to charge ‘admin
on. It’s a good idea to talk to family/ fees’ or to make you pay for things like
friends about whether they would be referencing or credit checks. Don’t pay
willing to be a guarantor for you and also things like damage deposits or advanced
to start saving up for the deposit and rent until you’re happy with the tenancy
first month’s rent so you are in a good agreement.
position to sign up for a place when
you’ve found ‘the one’. 5. What can I do if I am feeling
overwhelmed about finding
3. Can I get my contract checked? somewhere to live?
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding Come and talk to the Tenancy Support
document and you should make sure Team! Our contact details are on page
you fully understand it all before you sign 31 of this guide. It’s best to make an
it or pay any money. Tenancy agreements appointment as we aren’t always in the
are also notoriously long and confusing! office.
Have a good read through and our
Tenancy Support Team will be happy

30
Further help and advice

You’re welcome to contact the Tenancy Support Team in the Residential Service for help and
advice on private accommodation issues. You can also find lots of information on our website
aru.ac.uk/privatesector

Tenancy Support Team:

[email protected]
Cambridge & Peterborough: +44 (0)1223 698900
Chelmsford: +44 (0)1245 683110
Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 9.30am–4.30pm
aru.ac.uk/privatesector

For more serious issues involving housing or tenancy law, it’s advisable to seek legal advice.
The Citizens Advice Bureau and local council Housing Advice Centres both offer a free
advice legal service, or you may prefer to contact a specialist solicitor.

Peterborough Advice Centres

Housing Aid Centre Citizens Advice Bureau

Peterborough City Council T: 0808 278 7850
Town Hall
citapeterborough.org.uk
Bridge Street
Peterborough PE1 1HF
T: 01733 864064
peterborough.gov.uk/
residents/housing/
housing-advice
Email: housing.needs@
peterborough.gov.uk

31
Any
questions?
Please ask
Visit: aru.ac.uk/privatesector
Email: [email protected]
Call: Cambridge & Peterborough: +44 (0)1223 698900
Chelmsford: +44 (0)1245 683110