Renting for the first time can seem complicated. But it doesn't have to be.
Here's your rundown of everything you need to know about renting – from deposits, advanced rent payments and guarantors, to when to pay your rent.
Deposits and advanced rent payments
Some of our halls of residence ask for deposits or advanced rent payments. Others don't require either.
You can find out which do by checking each of the halls of residence pages.
What are deposits?
A deposit is a sum of money paid at the start of a tenancy agreement. It's refundable, so you'll get it back when your tenancy ends.
However, landlords may keep some or all of it if the room or property gets damaged during a tenancy. For example, if furniture gets broken.
What are advanced rental payments?
Advanced rental payments are similar to deposits and you pay them upfront. But instead of being refunded the money, it'll be taken off the remaining balance of your final rent payment.
When are they paid?
If your hall of residence asks for a deposit or advanced rent payment, you'll pay the requested amount as part of the booking process once you've accepted your room offer.
Your landlord or accommodation provider will get in touch to explain when and how you should pay it.
Renting
When is rent paid?
With a guarantor, rent can be paid in instalments over the academic year. This is typically three instalments in October, January and April in line with your student loan payment dates. You may be expected to pay the rent in full before you can move in if you do not have a guarantor.
Guarantors
What is a guarantor?
Lots of landlords ask for you to have a guarantor when renting. A guarantor is someone who will pay your rent if you don't.
Who can be a guarantor?
A guarantor must be an adult you know who has agreed to be legally responsible for the tenancy. They are usually family members, parents or carers.
If you're an international student, check the rules in your contract when choosing accommodation to see if you need to have a UK based guarantor.
Private sector properties may have different requirements for guarantors. Speak with a letting agent or our Residential Services team if you're unsure.
Get in touch with our team at residentialsupport@shu.ac.uk if you don't have a guarantor. You may be expected to pay the rent in full before you can move in if you do not have one.
