Start of tenancy

• To pay the deposit and any advance rent promptly
• To provide full details of all the tenants – name, institution, course, home and email  address, home and mobile telephone number and next of kin.
• To carefully check and sign your agreement and the inventory of the property within the first 7 days of the tenancy. Report any inaccuracies or discrepancies in writing to the landlord or agent within this timescale. 
• To report any repairs or outstanding items required when you move in as soon as possible so that they can be attended to.
• To apply online for exemption from Council Tax  if applicable or (but only if requested) supply an exemption certificate(s) to the landlord. 
• It is strongly recommended that you take out appropriate possessions insurance. Check first whether you are covered by your parent or guardian’s contents insurance.

More information on moving in to private sector accommodation

During tenancy

• To behave in a reasonable manner, with consideration for neighbours, landlords/agents.
• To be responsible for the behaviour of any visitors to the property.
• Not to cause any disturbance in the community you live in, particularly before 7am and after 11pm.
• To discuss any proposed changes of tenancy with the landlord and obtain his/her prior agreement before making any changes. 
• To pay the rent promptly. In the event of genuine difficulties, you should discuss the problem with the landlord as soon as possible.
• To report repairs to the landlord/agent promptly in writing (email is fine) and allow access for inspection, repairs and viewings.
• To take care of the property, its furniture and equipment and pay if necessary for any items damaged accidentally or by inappropriate behaviour.
• To make use of any security measures provided.
• To use fire detection and protection equipment responsibly, only for the purpose intended and only if safe to do so.
• To keep the property adequately ventilated and heated to reduce risk of mould/damp from condensation. Ventilate the kitchen and bathroom when in use. Keep rooms well heated and ventilated where clothes are being dried.  Further advice on Damp and Mould
• To bag up rubbish and recyclable items and leave them out for collection in the agreed place on the right day. Do not put refuse and recyclable items out any earlier than 7pm on the night before collection or later than 7am on the day of the collection. Ensure you return w heeled bins to the property no later than 7pm on the day of the collection. Further advice on waste collection and recycling

Need any further advice or information? Have a look at the information on the Student Support Web pages

** Most common concerns expressed by neighbours of student properties are refuse management, noise, untidy gardens, curtains being left closed during the day and posters etc displayed in windows **

End of tenancy

• Leave property in the same clean/tidy condition as it was at start of tenancy.
• Contact landlord a few weeks before the end of the tenancy to arrange an inspection visit. Use the inventory to check final condition.
• You should all leave the property and return all your sets of keys by the agreed date.
• Before you leave, send in final meter readings for all utilities, request final bills and leave a forwarding address with utility suppliers.
• In the event of a dispute between you and your landlord, we would expect you and your landlord to discuss and attempt to resolve any differences before resorting to a formal complaint/legal remedies. 
• If you will leave the property before the waste collection day, contact your landlord to discuss possible assistance with rubbish removal. He/She may be able to take rubbish to the household waste site on your behalf. Alternatively, contact City of York Council Contact Centre for advice: Tel. 01904 551551

You can get advice on contractual problems from the Student Welfare Advisers at Student Support Services.

  Further information on moving out of your property at the end of a tenancy