We have prepared this section of our website specifically to provide useful information for students who are looking to rent a property within the private sector.

For many of you it will be the first time you have rented a property. We understand this and are here to help guide you through what can be, for some, a daunting process. If you would like to find out what properties we have available, search here

If you have any other queries don’t hesitate to give us a call or send us an e-mail.

Both furnished and unfurnished flats and houses, generally with 3-5 bedrooms. Sometimes landlords have designed the accommodation specifically for students with desks or workstations in each bedroom.

Yes. Student accommodation is likely to vary from ex-local authority housing to flats over the top of shops.

Most houses and flats bedrooms will vary in size and this is often the flashpoint for your groups first argument. The solution often lies in agreeing an uneven split of the rent whereby those who get the larger rooms pay a bit more. Make sure you have this discussion before committing yourself to the property.

Normally yes.

Normally washing machines and other white goods (eg Cooker, Fridge, and sometimes a Microwave) but rarely T V’s.

Obviously this varies from property to property but as guide each student would normally be expected to pay between £200 and £300 PCM.

It stands for Per Calendar Month.

6 to 12 months on an assured short hold tenancy basis.

Yes. This is normally equivalent to one calendar months rent. Subject to references a higher deposit may be required.

Yes, but this depends upon the way that you have looked after the property. Any damages will be deducted from your deposit. I.e. if you have burnt a hole in the living room carpet then an appropriate amount will be taken from your deposit.

This is normally by standing order or by cash/cheque paid into our office. The full monthly rent must be paid by the due date.

No. The landlord pays the fees.

Yes. We employ a reference company to do this, the cost of which is £50.00 inc VAT. You will be given tenancy application forms for completion.

Normally yes, and this is a parent in most cases. Should you fail to pay the rent then the guarantor would be obliged to meet your liability. The guarantor will also be required to complete an application form.

The first months rent is due the day you take possession and is payable in cleared funds and then is payable monthly thereafter.

In addition to the rent you will be jointly responsible for all services such as gas, electricity, water and telephone. Tomkins Estate Agents will arrange for the transfer of services on your behalf. Sometimes services such as electricity work on a key meter system whereby you charge the key with credit at your local newsagent.

Yes, and this provides a record of the contents, its condition and the condition of the decoration. You will be required to return an approved copy of the inventory to Tomkins Estate Agents.

Normally we will make an inspection 2 or 3 times during a 12 month tenancy to ensure that the property is being cared for but we will always give you advanced notice before carrying out an inspection.

Yes, properties are not normally available months in advance and therefore we would suggest that you should start searching about six weeks prior to your preferred moving date.

Always view as a group. A few hours delay while the absent member of your group arranges an appointment to view can cost you the property.

If you like a property the chances are that other people will as well therefore a prompt decision is recommended.