Letting to students

Our top tips for letting to student tenants:

• Choosing the right agreement: Key to a harmonious tenancy

  Before embarking on your student rental journey, one crucial decision is whether to issue a Single or Joint Tenancy agreement. Each comes with distinct liabilities and responsibilities for your student tenants. Depending on your choice, tenants' proportions of liability and payment could vary under Joint Tenancy agreements, where the landlord can hold any one tenant responsible as if they were jointly liable. This empowers tenants to address their individual obligations. On the other hand, an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) for single rooms in a shared property safeguards each deposit separately, with exclusive occupation of designated rooms while sharing communal facilities.

• Smoking policy: Clarity is key

  With the Smoke-free (Exemptions and Vehicles) Regulations 2007 in play, smoking in shared residential areas is a violation of tenancy agreements. Make your smoking policy explicit to tenants, both in person and in writing, to prevent potential breaches. Highlighting the possible need for deductions from the deposit due to smoking-related cleaning, fumigation, or decorating can serve as an incentive for compliance.

• Nuisance clause: Mitigate disruptions effectively

  To pre-emptively manage potential disturbances, incorporate a nuisance clause in your Tenancy Agreement. Define behaviours that qualify as nuisances or anti-social activities. This clause can be invaluable for maintaining a harmonious living environment and can even serve as a discretionary ground for possession under the section 8 procedure.

• Furnishing strategies for student properties: Balance Cost and Durability

  While furnishing your student property, consider durability. Opt for robust furniture that can withstand the demands of student living, striking a balance between quality and expense. Fair wear and tear are more likely in student accommodations, emphasizing the importance of investing in durable furnishings.

• Deposit deductions: Communicate clearly for transparency

  Regardless of whether your tenancy is joint or single, transparency about communal areas' responsibilities and potential deposit deductions is paramount. Clearly outline these aspects in your Tenancy Agreement to prevent misunderstandings and disputes.

• Ensuring deposit protection with mydeposits: Your trusted partner

  Collaborate with mydeposits, a government-authorised tenancy deposit protection scheme operating in England & Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. We provide comprehensive support for corporate landlords, student accommodation providers, letting agents, and other businesses with tenants. Our commitment to outstanding customer service, efficient deposit management, and alternative dispute resolution ensures peace of mind.