A PARENT’S GUIDE TO
STUDENT LETTINGS
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Tenancy
Agreement
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Deposit
protected?
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Inventory
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HMO licence
Energy
Performance
Certificate
Are you the
guarantor?
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Read through your child’s tenancy agreement thoroughly!
Does the agreement stipulate your child renting a single
bedroom or jointly renting the property as a whole?
If you’re unsure of anything, check it with a solicitor first.
If possible, visit the property before signing.
A Deposit Protection Scheme protects your deposit and
ensures independent assessment if there is a dispute.
Ask the landlord to provide details of the Deposit
Protection Scheme they have signed up for.
Ensure there is a detailed inventory of the items in the property
and a description of the condition the items are in.
Take photos of as many items as possible and keep them on file.
Be sure the landlord has seen the inventory and photographs
before your child moves in.
Check whether the premises needs a
‘House in Multiple Occupation’ (HMO) licence.
An HMO licence means the accomodation meets living
and safety standards for shared occupation.
Ask the landlord for a copy of the Energy Performance
Certificate (EPC).
The EPC will give you an idea of the typical energy costs
of the property.
Be careful if the landlord wants you to sign as a guarantor.
A “Joint and Several Liability” clause will mean you are
guaranteeing payment for the whole property, including
unpaid rent or damages by your child’s housemates!