Time to Check Out
Whilst the health and wellbeing of our students, staff and visitors remain our top priority, we understand that as your tenancy draws to an end, you will now soon wish to arrange your check-out, but it is essential that this is done in an orderly manner to ensure the safety of everyone, including the many who continue to live with us. The below aims to provide some guidance on how to make this process as safe and effective as possible.
Step 1 – Book Your Check Out Inspection
In order to adhere with current UK government guidelines, and to ensure social distancing is maintained in our buildings, it is vital that a check out slot is booked prior to your departure.
We can offer face-to-face or virtual inspections but please note windows must be opened to ventilate the room/kitchen at least one hour prior to the inspection taking place and PPE must be worn if you choose to have a face-to-face inspection.
If you are contracted to a 51-week tenancy, you will be unable to book your inspection on the day of your check out so if you want to be present you must book this is advance but all belongings must be packed. We will conduct a final inspection once your items have been removed.
Please contact your residence team to book your check out slot.
Step 2- Pack Your Belongings
If you are currently living with us, please pack up your belongings in the normal way, ensuring you do not leave any items behind when your check out.
If you are currently living abroad and are not able to return before the end of your tenancy, we are able to help by offering packing and shipping assistance. Please contact reception for further details and prices on this service.
If you are not currently living with us but have arranged to return to your residence to pack and check out, please contact your residence team to let them know when you are coming.
Step 3 – Clean Your Room
We all know that cleaning is a chore but in order to minimise any risk of infection, it is vital to ensure that your flat is fully cleaned and sanitised prior to your departure. We have attached a handy cleaning checklist for you to use as a guide.
Step 4 – Recycle and Donate
As a company, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint, so we ask you to recycle wherever possible. Our recycling bins can be found in our on-site bin stores.
Please also remember to donate to our chosen charities if you can. Everything you contribute will go to a fantastic cause and will be greatly appreciated. Speak to a member of the residence team for further information on how to donate any unwanted belongings.
Step 5 – Returning Your Keys
If you are currently living with us or planning to return to conduct your check out, you will be required to return your keys upon departure. In keeping with social distancing guidelines, we will ask you to return your keys to reception in a dated envelope with your name and flat number clearly marked. You will be issued with a Vacate Form which will need completing and placing in the envelope also. Envelopes will be available for you at reception.
If you are unable to return to residence, then we ask that you return your keys via post using a recorded delivery service by no later than your tenancy end date.
Step 6 – Summer
If you would like to extend your tenancy and stay with us over summer, or if you are unable to return home due to the impact Covid-19 is having on travel, please speak to your local residence team who will be able to advise you on options and availability.
Step 7 – 2021/21
If you haven’t already and you want to rebook with us for 2021/22, you can do this online by simply logging into your portal and completing the booking process for next year. Alternatively, speak to your residence team directly who can advise accordingly on options and availability.
Step 8 – Getting Around the Building
It is essential to follow all social distancing guidance and protocol whilst you’re in residence and ensure that you move about the building in a careful and considered manner- this includes the use of toilets, lifts, stairwells and corridors as well as adhering to any measures your local team have implemented to minimise infection and control the risk of contact such as wearing a face covering while in communal spaces. You may see floor markings and guidance notices throughout the building, and we ask that you adhere to these instructions as closely as possible.
Step 9 – Travel
We appreciate that packing and checking out of your accommodation can be a stressful and arduous task. However, during these unprecedented times, we ask that if you wish to bring somebody with you to assist, that this is limited to one family member from your household. If you choose to bring someone with you, they will also be required to adhere to our social distancing guidance and will need to wear a face covering whilst on site.
Please do not travel:
- Without letting the residence team know when you are arriving
- If you are self-isolating because you have COVID symptoms, or because you have been exposed to someone with COVID symptoms
- With anyone who is clinically vulnerable
It is recommended that you take a rapid lateral flow test prior to travel or checking out of the residence. Guidance on how to do this can be found here. Please note that these tests are suitable for those who do not have symptoms. You can find further guidance on travel and transport here.
Step 10 – Sanitsing and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
As per the cleaning guide that you have been provided with, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended when packing and cleaning your flat. Additionally, your residence team will provide hand sanitsiser at reception and in any toilet facilities available. Whilst trollies will be disinfected after every use, you are encouraged to wear disposable latex gloves while handling them during your check out.
What to do if you have COVID symptoms or a positive test result on the day of check out
- Inform the residence team immediately by calling the reception.
- Do not leave your room until you have received a negative test result or your isolation period is finished.
- If you have symptoms but have not yet had a test you should arrange to have a PCR test as soon as possible. Guidance on how to do this can be found here.
Thank you
Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for choosing to live with us. The last year has brought its share of challenges and uncertainty, and we recognise the impact Covid-19 has had on all our lives.
Your patience and understanding during this time have been appreciated and we will continue to offer support and assistance to our students. We wish you the very best of luck with your future studies, and sincerely hope you enjoy a well-deserved summer break. For those of you staying with us next year, we are already looking forward to seeing you again soon.