Housing Advice


Here at the Students’ Union we know how important good housing is when you're trying to study.  That’s why we have a team of advisers to give you assistance in the following areas...

 

·  Where to look for accommodation

·  Who the accreditated landlords and agents are

·  What to look out for in a tenancy agreement

·  How to keep your deposit safe

·  Problems with your landlord
·  Safety

 

 ...and much more

 

If you're looking for accommodation you might find our Top Ten House Hunting Tips and House Hunting Checklist useful.

 

Information for landlords 

If you are a landlord wanting to advertise your property please contact Robert Larbey on Robert.Larbey@bcu.ac.uk or 0121 202 4697. Please note that at Birmingham City Studnets' Union we only advertise accommodation for landlords who are accredited with the Midland Landlord Accreditation Scheme.

 

 

Check out these sources of housing advice and information:

 

Midland Landlord Accreditation Scheme (MLAS)
A scheme promoting good landlords and letting agents. You are strongly advised to check the lists of accredited landlords and agents before you decide to rent a property.

NUS: Housing Advice
This section of the NUS website provides advice specifically for students, and covers issues such as TV licensing, carbon monoxide poisoning and deposits. The house-hunting checklist is especially useful.

Safer Students (West Midlands Police) – Safer Homes
Safer Homes provide advice on how to protect your home and possessions from intruders. The site includes information about property marking and a housing security checklist.

Gas Safe Register
Gas Safe Register is the UK watchdog for gas safety. Their website has advice about carbon monoxide poisoning, cowboy gas fitters and general information for gas consumers.

West Midlands Fire Service
The local fire service website provides information on all aspects of fire safety in the home.


Resources

 


The House Hunting Guide

Looking for accommodation can seem daunting but don’t panic! Use this guide for ideas on when and where to look for accommodation, what you can expect and the legal issues involved. If in any doubt, please contact the Advice Centre.

Click image on the left to view fullscreen.

Content correct at time of publishing: September 2008

 

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