The Lyra

Do I need to be a student?

Only full-time students can live at The Lyra. You may be asked to provide proof of your student status and it is very important that you notify us immediately if this changes.

Will I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, a deposit is required and will be held with the Deposit Protection Scheme. The deposit will be refundable at the end of your tenancy providing the property is left clean, damage free and in the same condition as at the start of your tenancy and that you have provided a copy of your Council Tax Exemption Certificate or your Registration Certificate. The deposit only becomes refundable at the end of the agreed tenancy, so if the main agreement is not completed we will consider the deposit as payment in lieu of expenses incurred. However, first-year applicants with a conditional offer of a place (dependent on grades) will be refunded the deposit if they can show written confirmation from the University that they have not been successful in securing a place.

Do I need a Guarantor?

Yes, a Parent or legal Guardian resident in the UK must stand as Guarantor. The Guarantor is legally bound to pay any debts accrued during the tenancy if the tenant refuses to pay. 

What if I fail my end of year exams/A Levels and the University does not offer me a place for September?

If you provide written evidence from the University, within SEVEN days of your results being published and no later than 1st September (whichever date is the sooner), that you do not have a place we will release you from the contract without penalty and refund the deposit paid. 

What if I cannot get a Visa to study in the UK?

Provided, you have NOT collected the keys, and that you have evidence in writing that your application has been refused we will release you from the tenancy and refund the deposit. If the Tenancy has already commenced, and you have NOT collected your keys, you will be charged for the period from the Tenancy Start Date to the date you provide us with evidence that you have not been granted a VISA. If you have moved into the accommodation prior to your Visa application is declined you will be responsible for the rent until we can find a student to rent your room.

What am I responsible for?

As the Tenant, you are responsible for the rent for the full duration of the term as set out in the tenancy agreement, whether or not you reside on the property. NB: Where there has been any breach of the Tenancy Agreement by a student; such as where fees have not been paid in line with the agreement or where any student causes a nuisance or annoyance to fellow students or refuses to follow the reasonable direction of the management, the Landlord or their agents reserve the right to seek eviction of that tenant. This is without prejudice to any obligations which the tenant may be under through the agreement. We will also notify the relevant University who may take action under its Disciplinary Code in accordance with the Student Charter and its Code of Conduct. If youre unfamiliar with the law and your legal obligations in relation to the tenancy, you should seek advice from a Solicitor, Accommodations Officer or Citizens Advice Bureau. When you sign the tenancy agreement we assume you are fully aware of your legal obligations. 

What does my rent include?

Your rent is inclusive of utilities i.e. light, heat and water, as well as internet and contents insurance.

How will I pay my rent?

Rental is paid termly, in advance, by debit or credit card. Tenancy agreements cannot be completed by the Landlord until your payment card details have been provided. This information is needed to complete your online booking and can be given by yourself or by your guarantor. Students who cant provide a Guarantor who permanently resides in the UK, are required to pay their rent in advance in September, October and December. If youre awaiting a student loan and cant meet payments as scheduled you should contact us at least 48 hours (Monday to Friday) before the payment is due. You will be liable for all bank and administration charges incurred by the Landlord for failed payments and will be expected to reimburse the Landlord for these charges upon demand.

Where do I get a Council Tax Exemption Certificate or Registration Certificate?

This is usually given to you when you enrol at University, or you can apply to your Students Services/Registrations office.

When can I move in?

You can move in on or after the Tenancy Start Date as specified in your tenancy agreement. 

When do I have to move out?

You have to vacate your accommodation by 11 am on the Tenancy End Date as specified in your agreement. Anything left in your room after this time will be removed and disposed of.

What if I want to terminate my agreement and move out?

If you wish to terminate your tenancy, we must be notified in writing and you must complete our Re Let Form. You will remain responsible for the rent until a new tenant is found or until the end of the tenancy (whichever is sooner). We will aim to find a new tenant who is both acceptable to us and who is prepared to meet the financial and legal requirements of the tenancy agreement at the current prevailing rent. We cant always guarantee to find another tenant, as obviously, this becomes more difficult as the academic year progresses, however, you are able to suggest a replacement to us. Please note that you will also need to cover all administration charges incurred in reassigning the tenancy. 

What do I need to bring?

All our shared apartments and Studios will be furnished but bedding and personal linen (sheets, duvets, pillows, towels etc.) are not provided. Double size bedding is suitable for beds in all rooms. In a shared apartment there is a TV in the lounge area and all Studios have Smart TV. All kitchens include microwave, kettle, toaster, fridge and freezer. Irons, ironing boards and vacuum cleaners are available. Kitchen utensils (crockery, cutlery, pans, etc.) are not provided. You will not be allowed to bring your own fridges, tumble dryers, portable heaters or other large electrical appliances. Chip pans and deep fat fryers are forbidden, as is the use of candles.

Can I store my belongings in my room, over the summer or after my tenancy has ended?

You must take all your possessions with you when you leave at the end of your tenancy, even if you are returning to the same room for another year after the holidays. We do not accept any responsibility for anything you leave behind and you may be charged for removal and disposal.

My Partner and I are both Students; can we share a room or Studio?

At The Lyra there a small number of studios available for double occupancy at an additional charge of 25%.

Is there any Internet?

Superfast Internet (and WIFI) is included in your rent. In the unlikely event its not fast enough you can upgrade. Find out more about our internet and wifi here.

Do I need insurance?

Contents insurance is included as part of your rental and is provided by Endsleigh Insurance. You can take a look at the policy terms and conditions and find out whats covered here. Any enquiries about contents insurance must be directed to Endsleigh on 0330 3030 280.

Do I need a TV Licence?

Yes, you will need a TV Licence. Anyone in the UK watching or recording television as its being broadcast or simulcast on any device including mobiles, laptops and PCs must, by law, be covered by a valid TV licence. Buying a TV Licence is your own responsibility and is not included in your rent.

Can I have visitors?

Unless otherwise stated, bedrooms are for single occupation only. Occasional overnight visitors will be allowed, at the discretion of the management, provided that no disturbance or inconvenience is caused to other occupants. You will be held fully responsible for the actions and behaviour of your visitors.

Can children stay/live with me?

Children cannot stay over or live in the property.

Can I bring a pet?

Sorry, no pets are allowed.

Is there Car Parking?

Unfortunately, there is no car parking available on site.

Is there a Cycle Store?

Yes, our accommodation has ample storage for bicycles.