Moving out of your privately rented property?

The summer is upon us and it is time for you to move out. There is lots to organise and things to do before you can close the door to your home for the last year.

You can download our Moving out Pack. This provides you with some useful information and tips to help you during the move; such as;

your nearest recycling centre and how to get rid of your bulky waste
dates for additional rubbish collections in Reading area
what you need to do before moving out
a handy checklist to use on moving out day
settling bills and getting your deposit back

Getting your deposit back

A major hassle for many students can be necogiating the return of your deposit. Many landlords seem to think that the money is theirs but it isn't, it's yours unless your landlord can prove that they have lost out financially as a result of something you or your fellow housemates have damaged ormisplaced, left in an unclean state; or to cover unpaid rent.

If you paid your deposit prior to the 6 April 2007, you need to negociate the return of your deposit directly with your landlord. You should do this in writing to your landlord.

The Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme

Good news for many students! From the 6 April 2007, when you pay a deposit to a landlord or agent, they must protect it using a government authorised tenancy deposit scheme. Your landlord must take part and tell you which scheme your deposit is being held.

This scheme was put in place to ensure that your deposit is protected. The scheme aims to ensure that you receive your deposit back at the end of your tenancy agreement. If a dispute arises between you and the landlord or agent, the scheme should make it easier and quicker to resolve. Visit www.direct.gov.uk/tenancydeposit for more information. Any problems, visit The Hub and speak with a Student Advisor.

Any problems?

Whilst studying at University, most students either live in Halls of Residence, privately-rented accommodation, with their family, or a combination of these. Most students are happy in their homes, enjoy living independentlyor sharing with others, but at times problems can arise, for example;

My landlord won't return my deposit

I'm not getting on with my housemates

I want to move out

I'm having problems paying the bills

My landlord won't repair the boiler

I have received a Council Tax demand

I'm having problems in my Hall

My housemate can't pay the rent

I don't understand my tenancy agreement

My housemate has moved out and I need to find a newhousemate

I have moved out and now I'm looking for accommodation

The bailiffs keep knocking on my door and I don't know what to do

Get some advice!

If you need any housing advice, visit The Hub and ask to speak to a Student Advisor. Come along to one of our drop-in sessions. We run drop-in sessions every weekday: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays from 10am until 1pm and Wednesdays from 2pm until 5pm. You do not need an appointment during these times.