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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

General information

Where is Warwick Accommodation?

Warwick Accommodation is situated on the ground floor of Senate House. The Staff & Family Housing Team is based in Argent Court, Science Park. Please see the campus map

What are Warwick Accommodation's opening hours?

Warwick Accommodation's main office is open 09:00 - 17:00 Monday to Thursday and 09:00-16:00 on Fridays.
Student Reception in Senate House is open 08:00 - 20:00 Monday to Friday and 10:00 - 18:00 on Saturdays and Sundays during term time. Further information can be found at: Opening hoursLink opens in a new window

How can I contact Warwick Accommodation?

Address: Warwick Accommodation, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom CV4 7AL
Phone: +44 (0)24 7652 3772
Fax: +44 (0)24 7652 4887
Email: accommodation@warwick.ac.uk

How can I contact Staff & Family Housing?

Address: Staff & Family Housing, Warwick Accommodation, Argent Court, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom CV4 7JL
Phone: +44 (0)24 76 522 443 between 09:00 and 17:00 Monday to Thursday (16:00 on Friday)
Fax: +44 (0)24 7652 4887
Email: staffandfamilyhousing@warwick.ac.uk

How do I get to the University of Warwick?

Students from overseas will be sent detailed advice from the Office for Global Engagement on travelling to the University of Warwick from open airports. There are direct FlightLink coaches available from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton airports to Coventry city centre. You can get the No. 12 bus from Coventry rail station and bus station to the campus, taxis are also available. http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/about/visiting/directions/Link opens in a new window

Is the University of Warwick well connected by local transport?

The University is committed to investing in it's campus infrastructure to support environmentally sustainable transport, and to improve transport and travel for all our staff, students and visitors. Please see http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/about/visiting/directions/Link opens in a new window for further details of local transport.


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Applying for Staff & Family Housing

Who can apply for Staff & Family Housing?

We accept applications from full-time contracted members of staff, visiting academics, research fellows and full-time students with children. For all applications received, priority is given to applicants who live outside the UK or EU and are coming to work or study at the University of Warwick for the first time. Accommodation is subject to availability and is not guaranteed. Unfortunately, we cannot offer accommodation to part-time staff at this time or Unitemps staff.

How can I apply as a staff member, visiting academic or research fellow?

If you are a member of staff, visiting academic or research fellow we will need to send you an application form. Please contact us by email on staffandfamilyhousing@warwick.ac.uk or telephone on +44 (0) 24 765 22443. Application forms are also available from Warwick Accommodation Student Reception, Ground Floor, Senate House.

How can I apply as a postgraduate student?

If you are a postgraduate family new to Warwick, you will need to apply online to ensure your application is processed, although it does not guarantee an offer of accommodation. Online application forms for the next academic year will be on our website http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/accommodation/studentaccommodation/apply during the Spring Term. Once you have found the form suitable for your situation please provide the ages and gender of your children in order to help us to allocate a suitable property. Any additional information you would like tell us, such as a property preference, can be written in the area entitled 'Brief description of yourself'.

By applying online does this guarantee I will be offered accommodation?

No. Accommodation is allocated subject to availability and is prioritised by application date. Please be aware overseas students new to Warwick will be prioritised.

Can I arrange to view properties before stating my preferences?

As our properties are constantly occupied, it is not possible for you to view the inside, however we have internal shots of our properties on our Accommodation Overview page. You are also welcome to look around campus anytime to get an idea of the layout and location of Staff & Family housing properties.

How will I be notified if I have been successful in my application?

You will be sent an email with an offer of accommodation with terms and conditions attached. Please ensure you advise us by email on staffandfamilyhousing@warwick.ac.uk if you change your email address at any stage after you have applied.

I am attending a pre-sessional course; will my family be able to join me?

The pre-sessional courses offer an intensive study environment and are a good opportunity to meet new friends and fellow students. We therefore recommend that your family join you after the pre-sessional course has finished. Like the main Student Residences, Postgraduate Accommodation is not available until mid-September. Our family accommodation cannot be made available any earlier than 15th September. Therefore should you wish to arrive early, please be prepared to find alternative accommodation for your family, until your campus accommodation is ready.

Is the cost of family accommodation included in the pre-sessional course fee?

No. If you opt to pay for the pre-sessional accommodation, it will be a single room on campus. If you are arranging your own accommodation, opt to pay the 'Tuition Only' fees.

I need to apply for a visa before coming to the University and I need confirmation of my new UK address.

If you are successful in your application for Staff & Family Housing, upon your request we can provide you with written confirmation of this. We would recommend you read the information provided by the Office for Global Engagement on the following link http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/international/immigration/Link opens in a new window

What are my chances of being allocated family accommodation?

Approximately 60% of our total postgraduate applicants are successful in obtaining family accommodation. Priority is given to overseas applicants who are new to the University of Warwick.


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Choosing your accommodation

Where can I find information on Staff and Family Housing accommodation?

Information on the properties can be found on the accommodation overview page. Warwick Accommodation manages approximately 150 properties, most of which are within a 10 minute walk of the main campus.

Can I arrange a viewing of what is available?

As our properties are constantly occupied, it is not possible for you to view the inside when you are applying, however we have internal shots of our properties on our Accommodation Overview page. You are able to look around campus anytime to get an idea of the layout and location of Staff & Family housing properties.

When would a viewing be appropriate?

Once we have contacted you with an offer of accommodation we could then organise a viewing. A member of the Staff & Family Housing team will arrange to show you around the specific property when it is convenient with the existing tenant, or we will look to show you another property of a similar layout in the same residence.

How do I choose which accommodation is appropriate for me without viewing?

A lot of information about our properties is online, including accommodation overviews together with visual aids and example inventories, which should help guide your decision. However, please be aware that every property is slightly different and if you have any specific requirements or questions please make these apparent on your application form, or alternatively contact the Staff and Family accommodation team at staffandfamilyhousing@warwick.ac.uk .

How do I advise you which property I would like to rent?

If you are applying as a member of staff, visiting academic or research fellow, you can state your preference on your application form. If you are student applying using an online application form, please enter your preferences in the area entitled 'Brief description of yourself'.

Will I be guaranteed the property I would like?

No. We cannot guarantee to be able to offer you accommodation or your preferred choice of property.

I have children and would like to apply for a one bedroom property. Is this allowed?

No. One bedroom properties are allocated to single applicants or couples without children only.

I am a staff member and want to live with my partner on campus, will this be possible?

If you are a full-time member of staff or visiting academic, then you can apply for couple accommodation on campus but it cannot be guaranteed. Only one of you needs to have an association with the University.

I want to live off campus with my partner/family, is this possible?

Warwick University has recently set up a relocation service to help new staff members and visiting academics find accommodation in the nearby area. The service has been created to combine the relevant information and search tools needed to provide an overview of what you need to consider when relocating to the University.


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Deposit and Rent information

Once I have been offered accommodation, do I need to pay a deposit?

No.

Once I have been offered accommodation, do I need to pay advance rent?

All successful applicants have to pay one month's rent in advance.

By what method can I pay my one month's advance rent?

We accept credit or debit cards (except American Express and Diners Club), a sterling cheque or a bank transfer. If you need our bank details please email us on staffandfamilyhousing@warwick.ac.uk

What happens if I change my mind about my accommodation, will I be refunded my one month's rent?

Once we have made you an offer of accommodation, you will be given a short period in which to decide if you wish to accept it. Once you have accepted our offer and paid one month's rent in advance, this will then be non-refundable if you decide to cancel within one calendar month from starting your contract.

How do I pay my rent?

If you are a staff member, visiting academic or student, you will need to pay your rent directly to Staff & Family Housing (not the Student Finance Office), preferably by monthly direct debit. You will be given the direct debit forms in your welcome pack when you collect your keys.

Will I be due to pay any additional charges at the end of my tenancy?

When you vacate your property at the end of your tenancy, a full inspection will be carried out. If applicable, charges will be made for outstanding fuel, missing items, or damages and will be invoiced to you.


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Information about your contract

What type of contract will I have in Staff & Family Housing?

Our contract is an 'Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement'.

What is the minimum and maximum period of my tenancy contract?

The minimum contract period will be stated on your offer, all our contracts are for a fixed term period and the maximum is usually twelve months. After twelve months it may be possible to renew your contract for a further twelve months.

How much notice do I need to give if I choose to leave the property?

Depending on your tenancy agreement it may be possible after you have completed your mandatory minimum of six months, we require written notice, one full calendar month in advance. (For example, for departure on 5 August, tenants would need to advise us no later than the 30 June - using the month of July as their Calendar Month's notice).

If you signed a fixed term contract there is no option to shorten the rental period

Do I need to pay rent ahead?

All successful applicants pay rent on the 10th of the month, or the next working day after, for that month.

What happens if I change my mind about my accommodation, will I be refunded my one month's rent?

Once we have made you an offer of accommodation, you will be given a short period in which to decide if you wish to accept it. Once you have accepted our offer and paid one months rent in advance, this will then be non-refundable if you decide to cancel within 1 calendar month of starting your contract, subject to the conditions of our offer.

When do I sign the contract for my accommodation?

You will be emailed an example contract with your accommodation offer to enable you to familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions of the agreement. However, this is for information purposes only, you are required to sign your contract and any other necessary documents on collection of your keys. This ensures your signature will be witnessed in person.

Can I have overnight visitors to my property?

Should you have guests stay with you, for security reasons we ask that you inform us of who will be staying. It would not be possible for guests to stay for longer than a few nights but please check with Staff and Family Housing before making any arrangements so decisions can be made on case by case basis. Please note that you are personally responsible for the conduct of your guests and visitors, and for any damage they may cause.


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Arrival information, key collection and moving in

I will be arriving at the University outside of office hours, can I still collect my keys and move into my property?

Yes. Although we can make alternative arrangements for you to collect the keys and move into the property, where possible you should time your arrival within office hours. This ensures a member of the team is available to help and assist you. However, should you need to collect your keys outside of office hours, please ensure you contact us a minimum of 2 working days (Monday to Friday) prior to your arrival to confirm this. The property will be ready for you to move into straight away.

Do I need to sign my contract prior to moving in?

No, the usual procedure is to sign your contract when you collect your keys or if you arrive after office hours, please contact Staff & Family Housing to book an appointment.

If I arrive after office hours, will I be able to buy any food provisions on campus?

Open hours for the Rootes Grocery Store are available at: http://www.warwickretail.com/openingtimes. There is also Cannon Park shopping centre nearby with 24/7 opening hours at certain times (excluding Sundays and bank holidays): http://www.cannonparkshopping.co.ukLink opens in a new window.

What is provided in the property?

All our properties are fully furnished and equipped, you will receive a full list of all items and furniture supplied, together with your offer of accommodation. To see an example of a two bedroomed property inventory, please click on the below pdf link: http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/accommodation/staff/faq/example_inventory.pdfLink opens in a new window (PDF Document)

Can I arrive at the property early, before my contract begins?

No. If you arrive before your agreed contract date, you will need to organise accommodation at a local hotel or bed and breakfast until the property is ready for occupation. At the following web link, you can find a list of rooms available on campus via Warwick Conferences http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/conferences/spaces/bedrooms/Link opens in a new window


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Other expenses

Will I have to pay Council Tax?

The University is required to advise Coventry City Council and Warwick District Council of the names of all our tenants and if they are a Student, Staff member or Visiting Academic. Generally it will only be full-time students who are exempt from paying council tax. More information is available on the following websites www.warwickdc.gov.uk (Cryfield Cottages, Lakeside and Heronbank Apartments) and www.coventry.gov.ukLink opens in a new window (Westwood properties, Tarl Lea, Forth House, Marina, Lakemba).

To request a formal certificate of student status from the University's Academic Office, please complete their online request formLink opens in a new window.

Will I need to buy a television and television licence?

You are required to purchase a television licence to watch live TV on any channel as well as any BBC programmes on iPlayer. We do not provide televisions in any of our properties but every property has an aerial socket. More information can be found on http://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/index.jspLink opens in a new window

Will I have cable or satellite television reception?

No. Please note that the University does not permit installation of satellite dishes and external or internal cabling to any campus properties.

Will the cost of my heating, lighting and power be included in my rent?

Heating, lighting and power costs are included in most monthly rental charges. The exception is for properties on Kirby Corner road (Tarl Lea, Forth House, Marina, Lakemba). Please refer to the website https://warwick.ac.uk/services/accommodation/staff/campus/ where it specifies if the fuel charges are included in the rent of each property.

How do I pay for my fuel usage? (if applicable)

For properties where fuel is supplied by the University of Warwick, we collect a monthly payment together with your rent of £25 - £50 on account (dependent on the size of the property). We will issue a statement of actual fuel usage on a quarterly basis, once you receive this you are then required to pay any difference due. If the actual usage is lower than the amount already paid on account, we will refund the difference. Some of our properties will have utilities supplied by a third-party utility company, for those you will make payment arrangements directly with the supplier.

Is the cost of my phone bill included in my rent?

No. In all properties you will need to pay for your phone calls but in some properties on the University's Internal Network you can ring internal University telephone numbers free of charge.

If my property has University network access, will I need to pay for this separately?

No. We do not make a separate charge for using the internet in University networked properties, as the cost is absorbed as part of your rent. However not all our properties have network access, so in some properties you will need to make your own arrangements and settle your bill directly with your internet provider. To find out which properties have University network access please see our website https://warwick.ac.uk/services/accommodation/staff/campus/Link opens in a new window

If I bring my car, can I park near my property and will I have to pay for a permit?

We will facilitate one parking permit free of charge, which will allow you to park overnight in a specified area, near to your property. Please note that you may be asked to produce documentation to prove that the vehicle is yours and that it has a valid MOT and insurance. Issued permits should be clearly displayed at all times; vehicles without a valid permit may be issued with a parking penalty notice.

Can my visitors park close to my accommodation?

No. However visitors are welcome to use the Pay and Display car parks located across campus http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/carparks/p_and_dLink opens in a new window

Will my property be covered by University insurance?

The University insurance will cover your building and the contents that are provided on your inventory. However, we strongly recommend you purchase additional insurance for your personal items and accidental damage.


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Reporting repairs

How do I report a repair or problem with my accommodation?

Repair requests should be reported via the Staff and Family Housing form on our website http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/accommodation/staff/faults/ 

For urgent issues outside of office hours, please contact Security on (024) 765 22083. In event of a emergency (such as requiring fire, police, or ambulance services), please contact Security on (024) 765 22222.


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Campus life

Is there a Doctor on campus?

Yes. The University Health Centre is situated on central campus. Any registration enquiries should be made direct to the Health Centre on (024) 777 10998. Or via their website: http://www.uwhc.org.uk/

The Health Centre is open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm (term time) and 9am-5pm (vacation time).

Is there entertainment available on campus?

Follow the links below to explore entertainment facilities on campus:
http://www.warwicksu.com/Link opens in a new window
http://www.warwickartscentre.co.uk/Link opens in a new window

What local shops are there?

The Rootes Grocery Store is based on campus and a Post Office is located inside. There is also a Pharmacy, Bookshop, Travel Agent and Santander bank on the main campus. Opening times are available on the Warwick Retail website here: http://www.warwickretail.com/openingtimesLink opens in a new window

A 24-hour Tesco Supermarket (excluding Sundays and Bank Holidays) and the Cannon Park shopping centre is a 10-minute walk away from the main campus, http://www.cannonparkshopping.co.uk/Link opens in a new window

What food and drink outlets are there on campus?

A full list is available via the below link:
http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/retail/cafes/Link opens in a new window

What sport's facilities are there on campus?

Central campus: new fitness gym, swimming pool, squash and badminton courts, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, climbing wall, weight room, sauna and table tennis facilities. There are also a wide range of classes and clubs available to join. For further details contact ths Sport's Centre on: 024 76 523 011.
http://www.warwick.ac.uk/services/SportsCentre/Link opens in a new window

Westwood campus: Games Hall, 3 Astro pitches including a tarkett pitch, running track and tennis courts.

Where can I find information on the University Computer Network?

For information on computing facilities please visit the Information Technology Services website. Here you will find details on the Residential Network (ResNet) service and we recommend you familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions outlined in the Acceptable Use Policy.
http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/its/servicessupport/resnetLink opens in a new window


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Information for families

Where can I find information on local schools?

On the following link http://warwick.ac.uk/services/accommodation/staff/contact/local-area/ the section 'Education' provides links for primary, secondary schools and Colleges.
More information on schools and colleges can be found on the local authority websites:
Coventry: http://www.coventry.gov.uk/info/200086/schools_and_collegesLink opens in a new window
Warwickshire: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/schoolsLink opens in a new window.
You may also wish to look at useful resource websites such as Ofsted Inspections,Link opens in a new window and the Good School Guide.Link opens in a new window

Which primary and secondary schools are nearest to the University?

The nearest primary school to the University is Cannon Park Primary SchoolLink opens in a new window, and the nearest secondary school is The Westwood Academy Link opens in a new window .
The nearest primary school to the Wellesbourne campus is Wellesbourne CofE Primary SchoolLink opens in a new window, and the nearest secondary school is Aylesford School and Sixth Form CollegeLink opens in a new window.

How do I apply for a place at a school for my child?

Primary and Secondary State schools within the catchment area of accommodation on the main campus, are managed by Coventry Local Authority. Schools within the catchment area of Wellesbourne are managed by Warwickshire County Council. If you wish to apply for a primary school place, or for a secondary school place for a year 6 child who is moving to a secondary school in the next academic year, you will need to apply through the Local Authority to which you pay your council tax, regardless of where the school is situated. Therefore, if you are a tenant in Lakeside Staff Flats, Heronbank Staff Flats or Cryfield Cottages and wish to apply for a primary school place in a Coventry school, you must make the application with Warwickshire County Council. To apply for a secondary school place for children in year 7 and above you can apply directly to the Local Authority that manages the school, regardless of the Local Authority to which you pay your council tax.

Where can I find information on the school admission process?

Details of the school admission process can be found on the individual Council websites: Coventry City CouncilLink opens in a new window Warwickshire County CouncilLink opens in a new window.

Where can I find information on Day Nurseries, Child-minders, Play Groups and Pre-schools for younger children?

The University has a nursery on the main University campus and more information can be found on the website http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/nursery/Link opens in a new window. For information on childcare for younger children please see the following local authority websites: Coventry: http://coventry.fsd.org.uk/kb5/coventry/fsd/home.pageLink opens in a new window Warwickshire: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/childcare/Link opens in a new window.

Can my family make use of the Sports Centre and Library?

The Sports Centre does have family membership which can be arranged by visiting the Sports Centre in person when you arrive. Library membership is only available for registered students or staff members but not their families.

Are highchairs provided for babies?

No, we do not provide highchairs.

Are cots provided for babies?

If requested, we can provide a cot and cot mattress but you will need to provide your own bed linen. Please note that for hygiene reasons a new mattress is supplied for each baby, should you wish us to supply the mattress you will be charged the cost. Currently mattresses retail at approximately £30.00 each.


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Further questions

Will my property have University network access?

Heronbank Apartments, Lakeside Apartments, Cryfield Cottages and Westwood Staff Flats all have University network access (fixed wire and WiFi). You may wish to use an ethernet cable, which if needed to be purchased is available from Student Accommodation Reception (Senate House), Rootes Grocery Store and local suppliers. In all other properties, you will need to make your own arrangements with an internet provider but please be aware, we do not allow external or internal cabling within the properties.
For information on computing facilities please visit the Information Technology Services website. Here you will find details on the Residential Network (ResNet) service and we recommend you familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions outlined in the Acceptable Use Policy.
http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/its/servicessupport/networkservices/resnet/rules/aup/

How many network points are in each flat?

One hard wired network port is installed in each flat (Lakeside, Heronbank, Westwood flats and Cryfield Cottages). Other properties may vary. A network cable will be required to connect your computer to the network point.

Do the flats have WiFi access?

Yes. The flats are WiFi enabled.

Will the telephone already be connected in the property?

The telephones in the Westwood Flats, Lakeside and Heronbank Apartments are connected to the University telephone system and can be used immediately. From these telephones, all internal University telephone numbers can be called free of charge but a calling card will need to be purchased from Rootes grocery store to make external calls. The telephones in Cryfield Cottages, Tarl Lea, Marina, Forth House and Lakemba will all need to be connected by your provider prior to use. The lines are rented through British Telecom and we will advise you of the last known telephone number to speed up the reconnection process. The website for British Telecom is www.bt.comLink opens in a new window

Do I need to bring towels?

Yes. We provide bed linen but not towels.

Are all the properties fully furnished or can I bring my own furniture?

All our main campus properties are fully furnished and equipped. We do not have storage facilities and therefore we are unable to remove any existing items. There is limited space in some properties for your own extra small items, however, please check with the Staff & Family Housing team prior to arrival. Our Wellesbourne properties are unfurnished apart from an electric cooker. You would need to provide your own other white goods.

Does the University provide any storage for extra belongings/furniture etc?

No. If you need to store any items, please contact a local storage company. Details can be found at http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/services/accommodation/studentaccommodation/usefulinfo/storage Link opens in a new window

Can I choose my own utility providers?

Only if you live in one of the following properties; Tarl Lea, Marina, Forth House and Lakemba. and have signed a contract for twelve months. The gas provider for Tarl Lea only is Warwick University and cannot be changed.

Will my property be covered by University insurance?

The University insurance will cover your building and the contents that are provided on your inventory. However, we strongly recommend you purchase additional insurance for your personal items.

Can we bring pets into our property?

No. All our furnished properties are pet-free.
Pets may be possible (by prior arrangement only) at Wellesbourne Campus.

Whom do I contact if items are stolen?

Security is located at the Main Gatehouse and their phone line 024 765 22083 is open 24 hours a day. Once you have reported the problem to security, please also advise the staff & family housing team so we are aware of any problems.

 


Goverment Advice

The link below relates to a checklist which should act as a useful guide for tenants or landlords that wish to clarify their rights and responsibilities in regards to letting in the private sector. It includes a checklist and more detailed information on:

  • What to look out for before renting
  • Living in a rented home
  • What happens at the end of a tenancy
  • What to do if things go wrong

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-rent


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