Frequently Asked Questions - UK
Not found the information you were looking for about our residences or student accommodation in the UK? You might find the answer in our frequently asked questions.
Booking Your Room
How long does a viewing take?
It usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes to tour our student accommodation in person, however, we also offer virtual viewings too!
Can I choose who my flatmates are?
You can choose to live with your friends by selecting the same flat number when you book with us. Please note, this is subject to availability, so it’s best to book early to avoid disappointment!
Do I need to pay a deposit?
We don’t take deposits for any of our student accommodation. Instead you’ll need to pay an advance rent fee which will go towards your second rent payment.
Do you provide female only accommodation?
Yes, if you prefer to have a single gender flat just speak to our residence support team when you book with us. This is subject to demand and flat availability so we’d recommend getting in touch as early as you can.
What is a guarantor and why do I need one?
A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay your rent if you’re unable to, for example one of your parents or a close relative. If you’re unable to meet rent payments please speak to your support team, we’ll only contact your guarantor to pay rent as a last resort if you cannot meet the agreement of your tenancy.
What do I do if I’m an international student and don’t have a guarantor?
If you’re an international student and would like to pay your rent in instalments, you’ll need a UK based guarantor. If this isn’t possible, you can still book a room, but you’ll have to pay your rent in an upfront annual sum instead.
Do I need to be a full-time student to book a room?
We can only accept full-time students. Get in touch with us if you have any questions.
Is there an age limit for booking with The Student Housing Company?
To live with us whilst studying at University, you will need to be 18 or older.
Student Living
Can I personalise my room?
As long as you are able to return it to its original state on check-out or you will be recharged for any damages.
Check out our blog for ideas of how you can personalise your room without nails, glue or leaving marks on the wall.
Where can I smoke?
We don’t allow smoking inside your residence, but you’re free to smoke outside.
Can I keep a fridge in my room?
Additional fridges are only allowed in your room if they are for the purpose of storing prescribed medication.
Can I bring a pet?
We love fluffy animals but we do not allow tenants to bring pets into the building.
Are there spare rooms for visitors to stay in?
No, unfortunately, our residences are filled to the brim with fun-loving students every year.
Are there any social events for residents?
We host socials all year round for you and your flatmates to enjoy; from spiritual and cultural get-togethers, to fitness events and much more.
If I don’t get on with my new flatmates can I change rooms?
We want to make sure that you love your experience living with us, so if you find you’re not getting on with your new flatmates it may be possible to change rooms subject to availability. Get in touch with your resident team for more information.
What happens if something in my flat breaks or doesn’t work?
Our friendly maintenance team is always on hand if something in your flat breaks or doesn’t work. Just fill in a maintenance request form and hand it into reception.
Can I have friends or family to stay?
Of course, as long as you are in the flat whilst they visit. We recommend friends and family only stay a maximum of 2 or 3 nights and that you let your flatmates know before they arrive.
Are the social spaces always open?
You can book out some of the social spaces on offer in our accommodation, but most of our common areas are open 24 hours a day unless alternative opening hours are advertised.
Accommodation Amenities
Is wifi included?
Yes, we offer high-speed 100MB broadband and Wi-Fi as standard in all rooms, and it’s also available in our social spaces and communal areas.
What appliances are included in your flat when you arrive?
The appliances included in your flat depend on the type of room or residence you book with. Check out our residence pages for more information or get in touch with our residence team.
Where do I do my washing?
We have on-site laundry facilities for you to use whenever you need during your stay.
What equipment is in the gym?
The residences that include a gym on site have free weights and/or weight training equipment, cardiovascular equipment and yoga mats. Some of our properties also have fitness suites with more specialised equipment or dance/yoga studios!
Can I have parcels delivered to my building?
Our reception team is always on hand to accept your parcels and signed-for items so you never miss a delivery. We’ll also send you an email reminder when your package is ready for collection.
Do we get a cleaner?
Some of our student properties offer weekly or bi-weekly kitchen & living area cleaners, but in others you’re expected to maintain your shared spaces and rooms yourself. All of our communal areas are cleaned regularly.
How secure is the bike storage?
Most of our bike storage is inside our secure properties, so only residents can gain access. However, in some residences our bike storage is outside on campus and where possible away from the main streets. In all cases, we recommend using a secure bike lock for extra security.
Is there parking for students on site?
Some of our residences have parking on site for you to use during your stay with us. Check our residence pages or get in touch for more information.
Moving Day
Can I move in before my contract starts?
In many cases, we can allow people to move in early at a daily rate, but you will need to contact the residence team to check.
What documents do I need to check in?
When you check in we’ll need to see a copy of your ID, and also recommend bringing a printed copy of your tenancy agreement with your signed guarantor forms.
What time can I arrive the day I move in?
Some of our residences will let you to move in at any time on set days, whereas others will give you a time slot. We’ll be in touch closer to your move-in date to give you more information!
Where can I park when I’m unpacking?
When your move-in date approaches, we’ll be in touch to advise where you can park nearby to unload your belongings.
Is it okay to arrive out of hours on the day I move in?
If you need to arrive out-of-hours please let your residence support team know with as much notice as possible to make sure we’re available to help.
Rent & Tenancy Agreements
How do I pay rent?
You can pay your rent instalments through our student portal. If you need help with getting your login details, or if you’re having trouble logging on, get in touch with your residence team.
How many instalments can I pay my rent in?
If you’re a domestic student or international student with a UK based guarantor, you can pay your rent in 3 or 4 instalments. Alternatively, you can pay your annual rent in an upfront sum. In special circumstances, get in touch with your residence support team to talk about what other options are possible.
Can I pay rent by bank transfer?
We ask students to pay their rent through our booking portal as it is safer and more efficient, but in some instances you may be able to pay by bank transfer provided you have spoken to your residence support team first.
Are there any extra bills I have to pay?
Water, gas and electricity are all included in your rent, so there’s no need to worry about paying utility bills on time.
Do I have to pay council tax?
No - full time students don’t need to pay council tax, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs.
Can I sublet my room for the summer?
No - unfortunately, we do not allow students to sublet their rooms throughout their contract with us.
Can I move out early?
Yes - Provided you find a replacement tenant for your room, then you can get in touch with your residence support team to discuss the details.
Safety & Security
Is there always a member of staff available on site?
We aim to have staff available 24 hours a day, so if you ever have a request, a member of our resident team can help you day or night.
How safe is the accommodation?
Most of the entrances to our accommodation buildings are access controlled as well as monitored by CCTV 24 hours a day, and all flat doors are all key controlled. We also aim to always have resident teams on site should you ever need extra support.
Is contents insurance included?
Yes, contents insurance is included in your tenancy agreement, so your belongings are protected throughout your stay with us. You will receive more information about this when you check-in.
Is the building regularly inspected for fire safety?
The safety of our students is very important to us. We have fire alarm tests and inspections on fire safety practices regularly across all of our residences.
International Students
What payment options are available for international students?
If you have a UK based guarantor you can pay your rent by instalments. Alternatively, you can pay your annual rent upfront in a lump sum.
Can I stay over the summer holidays?
Some of our student residences offer summer lets as well as tenancy extensions, but this is subject to availability. For more information, get in touch with your residence team or find out more here.
What do I do if I’ve booked a room, but can’t get a visa?
Please get in touch with your resident support team and they can cancel or postpone your tenancy depending on what works best for you.
Do I need to bring my own bedding?
Yes - we don’t provide any bed linen in our flats as we find students like to personalise their rooms. Check out our blog for room tips and ideas.
Please note, this may be different for summer bookings. Contact our residence teams for more information!
Can I be picked up from the airport?
Unfortunately we don’t offer airport pick up services for international students, you’ll need to make your own travel arrangements to and from the property.