200 Cowgate, Edinburgh

 

Can I live with my friends?

Yes. Where possible we will try to put you with your friends. When applying for your accommodation you should let us know your preferences including the names of your friends.  We will contact you to confirm your request.

Can I cancel my contract once I have signed it?

Please be aware that once you have signed your contract to stay with us, unless due to exceptional circumstances, you will be tied into the contract and expected to cover the cost of your room unless you are able to source an alternative resident to take over your contract.

If you have concerns that you might not be able to stay with us (due to VISA issues, etc.), please speak to your Accommodation Manager at the earliest opportunity.

When can I move in?

Please either speak to the Accommodation Manager or check your contract for more details on your move-in date.

We sometimes get requests to see if people can move in early, we will try and do our best to accommodate any requests where possible, but please be aware this isnt always possible due to previous residents moving out. Please call your accommodation directly to check the availability.

Will my room be cleaned?

Your accommodation is cleaned for your arrival. Once you have moved in you will be responsible for cleaning your room and any shared areas within an apartment.

What do I need to bring with me?

Your room is furnished but you will need to bring the essentials such as:

Bed linen (duvet, pillows and sheets)

Kitchen utensils, including saucepans, plates, cutlery and glasses.

Towels

Toiletries

Clothes

Laptop and chargers

Personal items

See our handy checklist to help you get started.

To help you with the essentials we have teamed up with UniKitOut to make your move as simple and straightforward as possible.  You can now order bedding, bathroom and kitchen items along with accessories here and theyll be ready and waiting for you when you move in! You can also save 10% with the code USL17.

Will my room be checked?

We will undertake full room (and communal areas where applicable) inspections at least three times during your tenancy period. We will check for cleanliness, damage and for missing items.

What kind of students will be living here?

We have all kinds of students living with us, from all over the world, studying for their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

I'm a Fresher, what can I expect?

Heading to University is an incredibly exciting time but if its your first time away from home you may also be feeling a bit nervous.  Weve put together a freshers guide which we hope will give you an idea of what to expect and to help you settle in to Freshers week and university life.  The main thing to remember is that everyone is going to be in the same position as you so be yourself and youll be great!

What happens if there is a problem with the heating or other services?

Contact the management team in the building and they will arrange for maintenance to attend and fix the problem.

Can I rebook my room for next year?

Many of our residents are returning students who just dont want to leave!

Apply as soon as possible in order to book your room, we cannot guarantee your room will be available; if you book early you will improve your chances.

What is a reservation fee?

Your reservation fee of 250  is due when you book your room. This is not a deposit, and once paid, is not refundable.

Your reservation fee secures your room once you sign the Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement and  your Guarantor signs the Guarantee (if required).

At the start of your tenancy your reservation fee converts to an advanced rent payment, and is either deducted from your single rent payment (if you pay for the year in advance) or from your first terms rental payment (if you pay in stages).

So, for example if the total rent stated in your contract is 4,500, and you are paying in advance, you will pay 250 before signing your contract, and the remainder, 4,250 before moving in.

If you are paying by three instalments with a UK Guarantor, then you will pay the 250 reservation fee on signing, 40% of the contract rent before you move in less the reservation fee (1,800 250 = 1,550), 1,800 at the start of the second term, then 900 for the third term.

Do I need to pay any bills?

Your weekly rent includes all electricity, heating and water bills and room internet access.

However, we follow a reasonable use policy and if we feel your use of any of the utilities (electricity or water)  is excessive, we will notify you of our concerns, and if the excessive use does not change, we reserve the right to charge you for such excessive use.

What should I do if I lose my keys?

If you lose your keys, please request a new set from the accommodation office, you will need to pay for a replacement set. If the office is closed you can contact the Student Warden on site.

Please look after your keys;

Do not label them

Do not give them to anyone else

How old do I have to be to live in your accommodation?

To live at one of our properties you must be 18 or over, on or before, the start date of your tenancy agreement.

What is a guarantor?

A Guarantor is a person that you nominate who will guarantee that your rent will be paid if you are unable to pay it yourself. The person needs to be capable of meeting your obligations if you are unable to.

If you fail to pay your rent on time, the guarantor will be responsible to ensure your rent is paid in full.

More information about guarantors can be found here.

An overseas based guarantor, or one who is overseas but has a UK bank account is not acceptable.

If you are not able to provide your own guarantor, Housing Hand is an international guarantor service that provides this service to all students who cannot provide a suitable or qualified UK Guarantor.

Housing Hand also specialises in dealing with International students who cannot provide a Guarantor in the UK.

If you would like to use or find out more about the Housing Hand Guarantor Service, please visit their website www.housinghand.co.uk or you can call their offices from +44 (0)207 205 26 25.

Do I need to have a UK based guarantor?

You will need to have a UK based guarantor if you would like to pay your rent by instalments.  If you choose to pay the total rent upfront then you will not be required to have a UK based guarantor.

Can I cancel my contract?

No. Your Tenancy Agreement is a legally binding document and you are subject to the terms and conditions of that contract.

Can I end my tenancy early?

As a tenant on a fixed term assured short hold tenancy you cannot end your tenancy early. You may find a replacement tenant for your tenancy as long as they take over the full length of your contract and pay the rent in full.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

You do not need to pay a deposit. However, you will need to pay a non-refundable 250 reservation fee to secure your room. The 250 is then deducted from your first rent instalment.

Can I smoke in the accommodation?

No. Smoking in the accommodation is forbidden.

Can I bring my pet?

Unfortunately we cannot allow pets.

What does all-inclusive mean?

All utilities electric, gas and water are included in the rent on a fair usage allowance with hot water available 24-hours per day.

Contents insurance through Endsleigh www.endsleigh.co.uk

Council Tax/Rates students are exempt from paying council tax/rates.

Is WiFi Available?

Free high-speed internet and wifi is available throughout the building(s), including bedrooms.