subject: Check student accommodation contracts to live comfortably [print this page] Check student accommodation contracts to live comfortably
Tenants living on a budget, such as undergraduates, ought to pay extra attention to their student accommodation contract to avoid any penalties and get the most out of their homes.
There are several different types of tenancy and it is important for renters to understand which kind they have. These documents set out certain rules that they have to abide by, although the agreements cannot override legal obligations of landlords and those staying in their properties. Fixed term tenancies exist for a specific length of time, such as a year.
It is imperative that those signing the document are aware how long they are expected to make rent payments, as once they have authorised the agreement with their signature they are required to hand over the stated sum until it ends. Those looking for a student property that offers more flexibility tend to opt for Assured Shorthold Tenancy contracts. In this case, tenants are usually asked to pay rent for six months and following this period they can opt out of the agreements by giving four-week's notice.
Some undergraduates may be very eager to move into a new home and get a taste of their independence. However, it is advised that those who have got to the point of signing contracts for student accommodation take time to look them over so they know what is expected of them. The landlord ought to specify who pays which bills and whether certain services, such as cleaning, are included.
Some undergraduates like to take their contracts to experts before they sign to check that there are no hidden extras or charges. Despite what is detailed in the agreement, both renter and landlord need to honour specific legal obligations. For example, tenants ought to treat their surroundings with respect and refrain from damaging them, while landlords are required to keep services operational, including electricity and sanitation.
