A blog by Dan, Student Money Assistant.

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After first year, many students decide to move into privately rented accommodation. This usually involves signing an assured shorthold tenancy agreement, which is a contract to live in a property for a fixed amount of time. Tenancy agreements can be long and confusing, but it is important to understand the contents. You can book an appointment with the SU Advice Centre to go through the contract details.

Unlike university accommodation, private renting requires a deposit, which cannot usually be more than five weeks’ rent. Landlords are required by law to protect this deposit in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme. The deposit should be returned at the end of the tenancy, but fees may be applied for things like property damage, cleaning, or gardening.

Unfortunately, many students receive deposit reductions they believe are unfair. If you don’t agree with charges, you can raise a dispute with your tenancy deposit scheme for free. An adjudicator will be assigned to your case, who will make a final decision on the deposit charges. It is important to have evidence to back up your claims, so take many photos of the property at the start of your tenancy. These photos should show the cleanliness of the property, any stains or damage, and the condition of furniture and mattresses.

When you leave a property, it must only be cleaned to the same standard as when you moved in. Many contracts state that you must pay for professional cleaning at the end of the tenancy. This is not enforceable, if you leave the property clean you cannot be forced to pay this fee, though many landlords attempt to do so. There are several other banned charges, which the SU Advice Centre are knowledgeable about.

If you need any support with your money during the year you can contact Student Funding Support by email (studentfunding@warwick.ac.uk) or telephone (024 7615 0096) Monday to Thursday 8.30 – 5.00 or Friday 8.30 – 4.00. Alternatively, you can drop in and see us by going to the Wellbeing Reception in Senate House between 10am and 3pm Monday-Friday.