Private sector accommodation: terms and conditions of using our online search
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Private Sector Information
We compile a list of private sector properties to assist students who do not wish to live in Halls of Residence. Whilst we monitor certificates for gas and electricity in respect of these properties we do not manage or inspect them. We do, however, ensure that property owners comply with a Code of Practice before registering their property with us.
Code of Practice
This lays down a set of undertakings about the way in which Landlords will manage and maintain student housing. It also suggests recommended furnishings which need to comply with statutory regulations to ensure their safety. Whilst there may be some variations in each house.
A typical Study Room is furnished with:
Study desk and chair, Wardrobe, Chest of drawers, Bookcase / shelves, Waste paper bin, Mirror, Bed.
A typical Communal Living/dining area is furnished with:-
Dining table with one chair per student, Easy chairs/sofas - appropriate number for each student, Coffee table, TV aerial, Telephone socket.
A typical Kitchen is furnished with:-
Fridge and freezer, Cooker, Fire blanket, Kitchen waste bin.
The kitchen should also have a food preparation area, storage cupboards and drawers of adequate size for the number of students resident in the house.
Sundry items that should be provided:-
Mop and bucket, Dustpan and brush, Vacuum cleaner, Ironing board
Toilet brush and holder, Bathroom mirror, Toilet roll holder.
The Essential Questions; Get these answered whenever you view a property.
Location: Convenient for Campus? Bus stop nearby? Shops, pubs, launderette etc handy? Does it feel safe?
Contract: Is there a Tenancy Agreement? Do you understand it? Will you get a copy? Is there a fixed term? How long? Can you leave before the end? Are all the tenants' names on it?
Money: How much is the rent? How and when is it payable? Are rent books or receipts available? Is a retainer available? Any discount for holidays? How much is the deposit/bond? Is there an inventory to protect it? Will you be paying the water charges? Are local insurance premiums affordable?
Safety: Is there a CORGI gas certificate? When does it expire? Have you checked gas appliances for sooting or discolouration? Are there working fire detectors? Are there clear escape routes? Has the wiring been checked in the last five years? Do doors and windows have good locks? Have previous tenants returned keys?
Furniture: Is there sufficient furniture? Is there an inventory of all furniture and fittings? Is their relative state of repair listed? Are all soft furnishings fire resistant?
Heating & Plumbing: Is the heating adequate and in good repair? Does all the plumbing work e.g. toilet flush? Are there any signs of leakage?
Repairs: Do any repairs need doing? Will these be done before moving in? Have you go this in writing? Is the property clean and decorated? Are you responsible for painting and decorating? Does all kitchen equipment work?
Landlord: Do you have a record of their address and phone number?
The Code of Practice is not a legal document but it does take into account existing Environmental Health legislation and minimum standards set by all of the Universities in Birmingham.
All private sector tenancy agreements are between the student and the property owner and any issues relating to the property should be taken up with the owner.
These properties are located all over the City and should be close to either Campus or bus or train routes see www.centro.org.uk for maps and timetables.
Rents for the Academic Year 2008-2009 are between £45 & £65
per week.
It should be noted that this figure will normally be for rent only; other costs may be applicable such as deposits, gas, electricity, telephone, etc.
Please note that you should seek independent advice before signing a Tenancy Agreement as this document is legally binding on both parties.
Useful Numbers
| The Advice Centre |
0121 331 6850 |
| Accommodation Services |
0121 331 5359 |
| Shelterline |
0844 515 1800 |
| City Council - Duty desk for Disrepair |
0121 303 5341 |
| City Council -Tenancy Issues |
0121 303 5070 |
| City Council -landlord HMO Queries |
0121 303 4009 |
| Gas Safety Action Line |
08705 763 763 |
| West Midlands Housing Aid Centre |
0121 236 6668 |
Please Note:
The following are properties which the University has been informed are available for letting and about which the owners have provided the information. The University provides this list as a means of allowing property owners to inform students of the properties which they have available.
The University emphasises that the information contained has been provided by the owners of the properties. The University has not inspected the properties nor has it checked the accuracy of the information given. Accordingly, it does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the information nor for the condition of the properties.
Any agreements made are strictly between students and the owner of the property in question. The University is not a party to any such agreement and does not accept any responsibility for the terms of such agreement nor for compliance therewith.
If either student or Landlord has any queries concerning their position, duties or responsibilities, they can obtain advice from.
THE HOUSING ACTION TEAM
LANCASTER CIRCUS
QUEENSWAY BIRMINGHAM
TELEPHONE 0121 303 4009
Tenants/Landlords should notify the University when accommodation is taken.
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