University years are an exciting time but there are a few peculiarities about student accommodation which are well worth being aware of.
How do you find accommodation if you’re not in university halls?
There are lots of places that advertise spare accommodation for students but start with the accommodation office or student welfare office at your college or university.
Think carefully before you enter into any contract to rent somewhere. Make sure the property is right for you and that you have enough money to pay the rent as well as the bills.
If you go to view a private rented property, beware of fraud or scams. Never hand over any money until you have viewed the property and avoid using cash to pay any deposit or rent in advance.
Are you liable for council tax?
Your property is ‘exempt’ from council tax if it’s only occupied by full-time university or college students. Student halls of residence are automatically exempt.
A full council tax bill is based on at least 2 adults living in a property. A discount is applied for people living on their own, and for those who live with people who don’t count as adults for council tax purposes, for example, full-time students.
If someone you share with isn't or ceases to be a full-time student the property won’t be exempt from council tax and you’ll get a bill. However, whoever is liable to pay the council tax might qualify for a discount.
If you're taking time off from your course, for example, because of an illness or family commitments, but you remain registered because you intend to go back, you should still be regarded as a student for the purposes of council tax.
If you've finished a course and you’re waiting to start another, you might have to pay council tax - for example, if you've finished an undergraduate degree and plan to start a postgraduate course in the next academic year.
Can they claim benefits to help towards rent and living expenses?
Most full-time students are not able to claim universal credit (UC) or housing benefit (HB), but there are some exceptions. Part-time students can usually claim benefits but the rules are complicated. If you are not sure whether you’re entitled to help it’s always best to get advice.
What if your accommodation is in disrepair?
If there is disrepair to the place you are living in, contact your landlord or university to let them know and ask them to carry out the repairs. If repairs aren’t forthcoming, we can advise on next steps. Don’t stop paying your rent because you face eviction proceedings.
This information is taken from one of our trusted resources, the Citizens Advice website.
PWCAC is OPEN for face-to-face advice (appointments and drop-ins) Monday to Friday, 9:30 – 1:30. If you need advice about welfare benefits, housing and homelessness, debt, relationship breakdown, consumer issues or anything else, get in touch: info@pwadvice.org | 01892 838619 94 Commercial Road, Paddock Wood, TN12 6DP
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