Oxford House

What type of room will I be allocated?

We have so many different types of room to choose from, and this depends entirely on where it is you're studying and which residence you're interested in.

Feel free to be nosy and have a browse we've got En-suite rooms or rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as Studios, Shared Apartments and more. 

Who will I be sharing with?

The best people in the world, obviously (because they're our customers!). In all seriousness, we can't say for sure, but it's likely that you'll share with other students who may or may not be similar to you.

Youll meet some characters, you'll hopefully make loads of friends, and you'll get the full student experience when you live with us.

We can't really predict how many of you will be in your flat, as it varies so much between our cities and residences.

We're sure you can handle a surprise, but if not, just let us know and we'll do our best to help.

Can I specify any preferences for my new flatmates?

We're happy for you to state your preferred gender to share with, as well as their year of study. Well, do our very best to sort this out. 

Can I introduce myself to my flatmates before I move in?

We cant give you the names of your new flatmates without their permission, but were more than happy for you to get acquainted on Facebook or other social media channels before you arrive.

Once weve let you know your room number, you can post to your hearts content and hopefully find the people youll be living with. 

Can I book with friends?

A friend of yours is a friend of ours! Were more than happy for you to bring your whole crew. To book with friends, you just need to let us know their names, and well do our best to allocate you a flat together.

Can I change my contract after I've signed it?

If you want to change things like your room size, increase your contract length or anything else, you may be able to do so subject to availability.

Please be aware that these requests may incur a charge and is at the managers discretion.

What happens if I change my mind completely?

If youre in your first year, you're able to cancel your contract right up until August, as long as you can provide the evidence that you are no longer attending that University (for example, proof that you have not been accepted by the university because of your A-Level results, or proof of acceptance at a different University in a different city). The actual cancellation cut-off date in August changes every year so please check your contract.

If youre not a first year, or you have a change of heart after this date, well do our very best to help you sell the room on to another student. Unfortunately, until this is sold, you're still contracted to the payments and the terms of the contract.

Do I have to be a first year to live here?

Not at all! All types of students are welcome, providing you can prove to us that you're attending some kind of full-time uni or college-type place.

We have loads of postgraduate students as well as second and third years (and so on); you can even have a chat with one of the team to see if its possible to match you with slightly more mature folk to suit your needs. 

Is there an age restriction in place to live here?

Whilst most of our students are in their late teens and twenties, there is no upper limit on the ages we accept to live with us here at Property Management.

We want you to feel comfortable, so please consider the many room type options that we have before booking to best suit your needs. Mature students tend to prefer Studios, as they're a bit less noisy and you do get some space away from boisterous freshers!

If you're a postgraduate student, we often offer dedicated floors just for you, which will help you focus on your studies ahead.

Please note the majority of 18 years of age by the time their Tenancy Agreement starts however, we know some students might not yet have hit that magic number so please get in touch if thats you and we can make sure we know to expect you and help with your booking.

Equality and diversity policies

We do not treat any person or group of persons applying for accommodation less favourably because of their race, colour, ethnic or national origin, gender, disability, appearance, age, marital status, sexual orientation or social status.

We run an active anti-discrimination policy and don't discriminate against any person or group of persons for any reason.

Can I pay my rent in instalments?

We know that not everyone can pay an entire years rent in one go and thats absolutely fine! You're able to pay the rent in three different instalments, spaced out throughout the year.

We time these payments to match the typical student loan payment dates, just to make life easier.

Can I use my student loan to cover my rent?

Your student loan is yours to do whatever you want with (providing its legal, of course!).

Just remember, not everyones loan will cover the rent for their accommodation, so youll need to think about how youre going to afford the rest of it before you arrive. We schedule our rent instalments to match up with the typical loan payment dates.

If you need to reschedule your rent dates we need to see your student loan schedule. We cant issue your keys until your first rent payment has cleared or until we have a payment plan in place based on your student loan dates. 

What happens if my student loan isn't paid on time?

We're more than happy to have a chat with you about circumstances like this which are out of your control. Student loans are almost always paid on time, but if they're not, we need you to be proactive and contact both the Student Loans Company and us to try to resolve the issue. 

What happens if I miss a payment?

We hope it doesnt' happen, but in the unfortunate scenario that it does, just talk to us.

We've worked with students for over 15 years and know things don't always go to plan. Our staff are here to help you to budget and manage your finances. If we cant speak to you about a missed payment, you may incur late charges or face legal action.

You also will have given us the details of a Guarantor who well look to collect payments from in the event that youre struggling.

What is a Guarantor and why do I need one?

As part of your Tenancy Agreement with Property Management, you have a duty to pay your rent on time.

We understand that sometimes thats just not possible, which is why we ask UK students to back themselves up with a responsible adult that they can trust (and one who trusts them!). Usually, students ask their parents, guardians or another family member to be the Guarantor.

We hope you don't need this person, but in case of any late or missed payments, we need their details before you can book a room with us so that we can claim any outstanding balances or monies from them.

A Tenancy Agreement is a legally binding contract, and so you need their permission before you get them to take responsibility. Well need some information from them, too, such as their contact details and proof of address which we collect at the point of booking a room with us.

How much are bills are there any others to pay?

All your bills are included in your rent seriously! Thats your gas, electricity, water, heating and yes, even Wi-Fi. 

Do I need to pay council tax?

Nope! One of the many benefits of being a student is that you dont have to pay any council tax youre completely and utterly exempt. You will need to obtain a form from your University once you enrol just to stop yourself from being chased for it!

What happens if I leave my course early?

If you leave your course early, youll need to find somebody to take over your Tenancy Agreement, as agreed with us here at Property Management.

Youre responsible for paying the rent for your room until its been legally transferred to a new and acceptable tenant.

When do I get my deposit back?

Providing everythings alright, youll get your deposit back within 28 days of your contract ending. The deposit is refundable providing we dont need to use any of it towards damages, but well discuss this with you if thats the case.

The deposit itself isnt actually held by us throughout the duration of your Tenancy Agreement and your stay here. Its actually protected and insured under something called the Deposit Protection Service, which is a national initiative designed to be completely impartial.

My English isnt great. Will this be a problem?

Not at all! We understand that coming all the way to a new country is scary for anyone, and we will do our best to make this your home away from home. You may even find that there are other people from your country in your residence, as over 4,500 students from abroad stay with us every year.

Some residences have multi-lingual staff, but regardless, we will do our absolute best to help you settle in.

If you fancya chat at any time wed be more than happy, as youll be able to put to practise your English language skills.

Youre sure to improve your English during your time staying with us. 

Whats included in my room?

Firstly, the cost of your room includes all your bills for the year. Your room also comes fully furnished so that you dont need to show up with everything youve ever owned.

Youll get a bed (either a 4ft double or a single), a desk (perfect for all that studying) and of course, your very own chair to go along with it.

Oh, and we also include storage space and lots of it too. 

What do I need to bring?

We cant list every single thing that we think you might need, because wed be here all day. However, as an overview its an idea to bring; bedding, towels, shoes, clothes, hangers, toiletries, books, a computer and a cuddly toy (optional).

Dont worry, you can hide that last one when your friends come over thats basically what our storage was made for!

Is there anything I cant bring?

All we ask is that you please leave anything illegal out of your new home, and we also cant allow candles or other hazardous items, either.  

Fridges are another no-no. However, we do make some exceptions, for example if you've got a medical reason to have one. Thats fine so long as we know about it, but if you just fancy a midnight snack well have to ask you to pop to the kitchen!

How can I watch TV?

There are TVs in many of the communal kitchens, and some bedrooms include TVs too - you're more than welcome to check what is provided before you arrive. You will need a TV licence for your bedroom if youre watching TV LIVE or on-demand, and if you have a TV licence for your bedroom this automatically covers the communal kitchen too.

If you just want to watch TV in the communal kitchen, then you and your flatmates can arrange a single TV licence together. Students living in a studio will also need to arrange their own TV licence if you plan to watch TV LIVE or on-demand.

Do I get my own bathroom?

This completely depends on the type of room that you select at the time of booking. Our En-suite rooms and Studios all have a bathroom inside the rooms themselves.

If you share a bathroom, you wont have to share it with many people at all. We would recommend that you perhaps make a shower rota to avoid showing up late for things though!

Will I be able to study in my room?

Our student accommodation would be pretty rubbish if we didnt make it possible for you to study here, wouldnt it? The clue is in the name.

We provide a spacious desk to each student, as well as a chair and free Internet so that youve got a great study area to get those dissertations completed on time.

Do I have to move out over the Christmas or Easter holidays?

No, absolutely not. Your room is yours until the end of your contracted time listed in your Tenancy Agreement. Thats sure to save you a lot of hassle!

Can I personalise my room?

Remember, you will need to give your bedroom back at the end of your Tenancy Agreement in good condition for the next resident, so you cant redecorate as such.

That means we unfortunately cant allow you to stick things on the walls with blue/white tac or pins, because we would have to charge you for any lasting damages! Try using Washi tape.

However, that isnt to say that you cant find some nice trinkets to make your room more homely. All of our rooms are pretty neutral so you can inject a little bit of spark into each and every one. 

What if I want to change my room?

This depends on a few things, including our availability and the reasons why you want to change. If you're having any problems at all big or small the residence team will be happy to help.

Changing rooms is usually a last resort, but we will do our absolute best to help you settle in. 

Is there maintenance included in my room?

Our maintenance teams are basically superheroes, and were hardly exaggerating, plus there is no charge for their help. If you need something fixed, you just need to let us know by logging a request with the Residence Team, and the teams will fix it for you ASAP.

What happens if I damage something?

Accidents happen, but anything that is damaged will need to be paid for, and there is a list of costs here. Charges will be added immediately, and you can either pay at the time or the charges will be added to your account and taken at the end of your stay this may need to come out of your security deposit.

You also have to bear in mind that your guests are your responsibility so if they damage something, youre the one who has to pay.

In any event, please report all damage sorry to sound a bit like school!

How can people send things to me?

Their residence teams are men and women of many talents they fill every kind of capacity imaginable, even concierge.

Theyll happily sign for any letters or parcels you might receive, so you can keep in touch via snail mail, or shop online to your hearts content.

Youll also receive your own designated post box with a key for you to collect any ordinary post at your leisure. Anyone sending anything just needs to pop your full name and flat number in front of the residence address, to make sure it reaches you. 

How do I do laundry?

We cant exactly expect you to succeed with dirty clothes now, can we? All residences have washing and drying facilities, making it easy for you to stay up-to-date on your laundry pile without too much hassle.

Sadly, mum and dad arent here to sort it for you at Property Management, so nows the time for you to learn. You need to separate your light and dark clothes, and you need to check the labels to see what temperature they can be washed at before you pop them in the machine, too.

We use a laundry system called Circuit Laundry across all of our residences, and you pay for each load with credit which you (or someone else) can top up online.

What are the kitchen facilities like?

The answer to that would be AWESOME! But seriously, you get a hob, oven, fridge, freezer and cupboards, plus plenty of space to become a world class chef (ahem).

Are my pots and pans included in my rent?

Youll need to bring your own pots and pans and other kitchen bits and bobs, unless you order one of our Kitchen Packs before you arrive. You can also split the cost of a kettle and toaster between you and your flatmates, and you should probably talk about taking it in turns to buy stuff to clean with to save on costs, too.

You can bring anything you like to become a culinary genius, just please dont bring any deep fat fryers or your own fridge theres space for each of you in the ones provided. 

Is there a common room?

Most residences have common areas where you can socialise. These are spaces within in the building for you to relax and take a load off, meet up with friends to study, watch TV or take part in any of our great Student Experience events.

Who cleans the communal areas?

You are all responsible for doing your bit. You should keep things tidy and make sure you wash your dishes after you eat. All students sharing common areas are jointly responsible for any cleaning fees you might incur at the end of the academic year.

Your room, however? Well thats on you!

Can I smoke anywhere in the building?

Nope! Sorry, its just our policy. This means literally anywhere in the building, so please just dont bother. We will be happy to point you to designated areas outside where you can smoke.

What happens if I dont get on with my flatmates?

We get it. At University, youll meet loads of people from all kinds of backgrounds, with loads of different interests and personalities. Its not expected that youd get on with absolutely everyone.

However, part of the student experience is learning more about totally new people, and wed really appreciate everyone doing their very best to make everyone feel welcome. You never know you may make bonds with people you never imagined that youd meet!

If there are any serious problems please let the Residence Team know, and theyll arrange an informal and confidential chat with everyone involved. 

Do you have a gym?

Some residences do, others dont. For more details, have a look at the facilities in your specific residence on the designated page, or just give us a call. 

Can my guests use the gym?

Due to the fact that the gym is inclusive in your rent (where available), we have to ask that your guests do not accompany you there. Our insurance simply doesnt cover any visitors. 

Can I bring my bike?

Yep! You can stay healthy and save money and all that jazz, and well let you store your bike in our special storage facility completely free of charge. You just cant bring it inside the residence.

Please note, if you are bringing your bike youll need to request additional insurance as bikes arent included in your free insurance cover.

Can I bring my car?

This really depends. Some residences have huge car parks; others dont have any place to park at all. Please give your residence a call to check and to find out the additional costs involved. 

Can I bring Jaws & Speedy, my pet goldfish and my pet tortoise?

We know, we know it would take Speedy a year to break out of the building, so in theory, hes doing no harm. However, we have to draw the line somewhere, so unfortunately, pets arent allowed!

If you need a guide dog or a working dog to assist you, please call us to discuss your options.  

Can I store my luggage before I get there?

Unfortunately, we dont have space to store anyones luggage prior to their arrival sorry! Once you get here, however, theres plenty of space in your room for everything you might be bringing. 

What if theres nobody there when I arrive?

There will always be someone on hand to greet you when you move in, as most of our residences have 24 hour staff. Please try to let us know when you might get here so that we can expect and plan your arrival.

How can I make moving-in day run more smoothly?

Please bring photo ID and a little bit of patience. Remember, you most likely won't be the only one moving in.

Where do I get my keys?

When you get here, follow signs to register with us. This is where youll need to provide your ID, paperwork and everything else, and itll most likely be at reception. Once youre done and dusted, theyll give you your new keys/fob for your new home!

Can I bring family/friends to help me set up?

Of course! Youre building a whole new life here at Property Management and that takes a bit of work. The more the merrier from our perspective we want you to feel at home. 

Will there be parking for me to unload my things?

In most sites the answer is yes, but for a limited time only. There will most likely be hundreds of students milling around, all with the same idea of getting settled so we have to be fair.

Staff will be more than happy to direct you to local parking places after the initial drop-off if time and space is limited.

Can I find out who my flatmates are before I move in?

Thats what social media was made for. Once weve let you know your room number you can post it on our social media channels and hopefully find your new best friends before you arrive!

How much does the Internet cost?

You get free 50Mb/s high speed broadband and Wi-Fi connection included in your room as standard in most Property Management residences*. We use the student provider Ask4 to connect our students with the outside world, and their basic package is perfect for a bit of Facebook browsing, Netflix binging and of course, studying!

There is the opportunity to upgrade your package for a small fee, if you need a bit of extra speed for those gaming nights!

How do I get online?

When you arrive youll be able to head to Ask4, our providers website to set up. You can switch on Wi-Fi on your device, or use a cable for broadband connections hey presto, there you go! 

How many devices can I connect?

You can connect up to seven devices, so you never need to feel out of sync.

Does Wi-Fi cost extra?

Just like the broadband connection included in the cost of your rent, Wi-Fi is another helpful little addition which we provide absolutely free of charge.

The basic package is 50Mb/s* and can connect up to seven devices; so its perfect for anything you might need. You can even upgrade your speed for a small fee.

Who provides the Wi-Fi?

The Internet in your new home is provided by our trusted partner, Ask4, in most Property Management residences*. Theyre super experienced in all things studenty and Internety, so youre in good hands.

In fact, theyre the leaders in what they do and they have 24/7 support available to make sure everything runs smoothly, too.

Can I use my own wireless router?

Unfortunately, we have to ask everyone to turn off any personal routers that they may have. We hate to sound like the cyber police, but it just keeps our service running more quickly. Other routers only interfere.

Is the residence safe?

Completely. We hope that you will feel ultra-secure throughout your time with us. We have CCTV monitoring all our residences, and there is also an electronic key fob entry system to prevent random people coming in off the street.

Your individual room can be accessed only by you, with a key. All guests are signed in, and most residences also have a security team patrolling throughout the night.

Remember, your belongings are also insured. 

Why are my windows restricted?

Its a legal requirement that we have to restrict the windows for your safety. Please dont tamper with this restriction, and let us know straight away if it breaks. 

Im locked out. What should I do?

If youve lost or forgotten your keys or fob, dont panic. There will almost always be someone available at the residence to let you back in and sort out a replacement.

Please note that there will be a charge for any replacements issued.  

Will there be someone available 24/7?

Most residences have management teams available throughout the working week, and security teams working around the clock at night times and weekends to support you. 

Do you have fire safety procedures in place?

Their fire alarms are tested weekly and there will be a drill at the start of the academic year to ensure that everyone knows exactly where theyd need to head in the event of a real evacuation.

There is appropriate emergency signage located throughout each building, but if youre ever unsure or worried, you can speak to staff wholl be happy to explain where youd need to go.

We ask that everyone behaves safely and responsibly at all times and remember falsely setting off a fire alarm is a criminal offence and it could cost you your place at University as well as a criminal record.

Who do I call in an emergency?

For medical emergencies, in the event of fire, or if you are the victim of crime, you must always call for an ambulance, the fire brigade, or the police.

The number in the UK is 999. However, if you are having an emergency that you feel we could help you with, you should contact any member of staff.