2. Lets Be Patient ! #dontrentyet
Our message is not to going rushing into signing a contract just yet!
Your circumstances might change
You might not like the people you have signed up with in 6 months time?
You may just decide you would prefer to share with different people
You might find something better
You might decide to opt for a Study Abroad Semester/Year/Placement Year
You might not progress on your course as you expect to
Personal Circumstances might arise which might change things

3. So then when? Timing Don’t panic – myth busting
Suggest after the January assessment period at the earliest
Making an informed choice at your own pace
Consider if you want to share or not
If sharing consider who you are going to live – will this will change???
Once its signed, you are bound
Joint and Several Liability

4. House Hunting and Viewing
Research the area
View several houses to gauge a standard across areas
Viewing with tenants who are still living there
Ask questions of landlords/current tenants
Feel confident to make requests and get these added to the contract
Don’t be pressured by agents/landlords or friends!
Read all the documents
Seek advice if unsure
Make sure you are within budget

5. Housing Options #nclhousehunt
University Accommodation Service - Nustudenthomes & Private Rented Property - website has information on student areas and average costs
Word of Mouth
Local Agencies / NUSU Housing Fair – 24th November Venue
Online
Local Press / Shop windows

6. Be Aware – Joint and Several Liability
Annual rent on the Property:
Average weekly rent x contract length x no. tenants
£75 x 52 x 9 = £35,100
You are legally liable for this jointly AND individually. If your parents or family have acted as guarantors then they are liable in the event of your failure to pay. A common misconception is that they are only liable for a portion of the rent but they are usually liable for the full amount.

7. ‘Tricks or Treats’

8. Important things to know about
Tenancy Deposit Protection
Houses in Multiple Occupation
Professional Lettings and Property Management
Independent Redress Scheme registration
Who is managing the property?
Fees

9. Contract Review Service
The Student Advice Centre (SAC) can offer a review service
Documents must be given to SAC no less than 48 hours in advance
By appointment only

10. Useful sources of information
Student Advice Centre – Housing Advice web pages
Shelter website
National Union of Students (NUS)
Newcastle University Accommodation Service
Newcastle City Council
Northumbria University Student Law Office
Citizens Advice Bureau
GOV.uk

11. Senior Adviser (Housing)
Questions?
Ruth Gibson
Student Advice Centre
Senior Adviser (Housing)