The Fitzalan, Cardiff

Who can live here?

Any full-time student (minimum 16 hours per week) enrolled in a university or college, who is 18 years of age or older on the date they submit the application form.

What is the contract length?

We offer a variety of contract lengths from short term summer and semester stays and longer academic year stays. Some semester stays may be available so please enquire with our bookings team.

What is included in the room rate?

All utility bills (water, lights, and electricity), 100Mb internet access, 24 hour security, contents insurance and gym access at specific sites only.

Can I choose my room in the building?

Normally rooms are allocated on a first come first served basis. You can specify any special requests at the time of your booking and we will do our best to accommodate you in that room.

Is there somewhere to store my bike?

Yes, all residences have secure bike storage available free to residents.

Do you have extra storage for suitcases?

If students need to arrive earlier than the check-in time on their contract start date, it is fine to leave suitcases with the Reception team until it's time to check-in. However, there is no storage space at any of the  residences, and any luggage is left at your own risk.

What furniture is in my room?

Our rooms are all standardised and have the same high-quality furniture throughout.

What are the guest policies?

Residences are your home so you are allowed to have friends and family visit you when you want, we just ask that you respect your fellow residents and sign your guests in and out of the buildings so we know who is in the building in case of an emergency.

Is there a curfew?

No, you can come and go as you please. 24-hour security will be available to welcome you at the front door.

Can I smoke in my room?

No. You may smoke outside in designated smoking areas.

Will I have a phone in-room?

Phones are not provided in-room, however Ask4 have provided VOIP telecoms which is available using your laptop and allows residents to call home at discounted rates.

Will I have a TV in-room?

No, however flat screen TVs are provided in all communal areas and IPTV is available to stream on your laptop.

Will my room be cleaned?

We have a housekeeping team on-site, they will clean all communal areas in the residence. This does not include your room, however you can arrange a room clean with them directly at additional cost.

What if something in my room breaks?

We have a maintenance team on-site, they maintain the residence and make sure that it is always in the best order for students living in the building. Should you have a problem with anything in your room; say your fridge stops working or a lightbulb needs replacing, they will fix it as soon as possible for you. Maintenance issues can be reported online through your student portal.

Are there accessible facilities throughout the buildings?

All of our our residences feature accessible rooms alongside wheelchair and mobility access throughout.

Is there a laundry?

Yes. We have enlistted the help of laundry specialists Circuit to manage our laundry facilities within the residence.

Is the use of the Gym included in my rent?

Yes. We have a fully kitted out gym and fitness suite in some of our residences. This is free for students to use and open 24hrs a day.

What about my Post?

Our front desk and security staff will take collections for you and sort your mail. Each resident has a secure mailbox which they share with around 4/5 students living in the building.

What hours can I use the courtyard?

The courtyard is open from 10am-10pm and is a smoke-free zone.           

Do you provide bedding?

No. It is up to students to purchase their own bedding.

Can I move in early?

Yes, if your room is available. The additional charge will be at the current room rate per week and early move ins are on a week not daily basis. Please check with our team as to whether your room is available to secure an early arrival.

What do I need to bring?

Provided your checklist is complete and the required rent payment is received, you will only need to provide an ID at Reception when you arrive to check-in

What documents are required for me to check-in?

We require a copy of your passport, visa, photo and proof of address.

These documents must be uploaded to the Student Portal within 10 days of receiving your accommodation offer. Failure to do this will mean that your check-in could be severely delayed and could possibly result in you not being able to check in.

What if I want to live in a different  residence to the one I have booked?

Should a resident book with us at one of our residence and then want to move to another residence, this will be possible providing there are rooms available.

Do I need a television licence?

Yes, if you watch television in your bedroom. All homes in the UK require a television licence and your room is treated as a home under the licensing authority's definition. There is a large screen television with Sky in the Social Hub which has a television licence associated with it. However, for IPTV provided by Ask4 and viewed in your room, you will need a licence.

What other charges can I expect?

You will have to pay for laundry, phone calls, your TV licence, upgrade of insurance or internet packages, and any items purchased from the vending machine.

Can I pay by Bank Transfer?

It is possible to pay by bank transfer, however please be aware that it can take up to 5 working days to reach us and the payment must be showing in your account before you would be able to check-in to the residence.