The Ned|Lon Guide to Renting a Home in the UK
Important Considerations for International Students
Renting a home in the UK can be a complex process, especially for international students. Being informed about the requirements, payment terms, and rental market dynamics will help you navigate this process with greater ease and confidence.
In this blog post, we'll outline some points to keep in mind when renting a home.
Guide to Renting a Home in the UK: Important Considerations for International Students
Renting a flat in the UK comes with its own set of rules and regulations, and as an international student, it's crucial to be well-informed about the key things. In this blog post, we'll outline some points to keep in mind when renting a home.
1. The "Right to Rent Share Code":
Before you can rent a property in the UK, you'll need something called a "right to rent share code." This code is obtained by entering the long number on your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) into the government's website. Estate agents use this code to conduct background checks and verify your eligibility to rent a property in the UK.
However, if it's your first time coming to study into study, the process may be slightly different. In this case, you can initiate the rental process using your UKVI code, which is given to you when you apply for your visa. It's important to note that your visa must be stamped in your passport before the contract's start date. Therefore, applying for your visa in a timely manner is crucial. Once you arrive in the UK, you can visit the post office to collect your BRP and create the necessary share code.
2. Rental Contract Durations:
The length of rental contracts in the UK can vary. Many students aim to secure a rental contract that covers the entire duration of their education (i.e., 9 months), but this isn't always possible, especially in competitive markets like London. Landlords often prefer longer-term contracts to reduce the turnover of tenants and maintain stability in their properties. However, there are exceptions, and landlords may include a break clause in the contract, allowing you to terminate the lease with a two-month notice. It's worth noting that this break clause might not be available until at least six months into the tenancy, and landlords in high-demand areas like London may try to avoid including it.
3. Payment Terms:
Students are typically required to pay a minimum of six months' rent in advance. However, in cases where multiple offers are made on a highly desirable property, offering to pay nine or even twelve months' rent in advance can strengthen your offer and make it more competitive.
4. How Long Does It Take to Find a Home with The Ned|Lon?
The time it takes to find suitable flat in the UK can vary widely. We usually advise our clients to allow at least one month for the search process. However, it's important to maintain active communication with us and be prepared for the possibility of finding a property within a few days or taking a couple of weeks. We understand that each student's situation is unique, and we tailor our services accordingly, so there's no one-size-fits-all approach.
5. Understanding Deposits:
In the UK, there are two types of deposits to be aware of: the holding deposit and the security deposit. The holding deposit is a one-week's rent payment made to secure a property after your offer has been accepted. The security deposit, on the other hand, is typically equivalent to five weeks' rent. This deposit is collected when you move in and serves as insurance for the landlord in case of any damage to the property during your tenancy. If no damage occurs, the full deposit is refunded at the end of your lease.
6. Reporting Damages:
Before moving into the property, a third-party company usually conducts an inventory check and documents the condition of the property. You'll receive a report (inventory check-in report), and it's important to compare it with your own observations. If you notice any discrepancies or additional issues, you should promptly report them to ensure they are addressed.
7. Council Tax:
As a student in the UK, you're exempt from council tax, which is great news for your finances. To secure this exemption, you'll need to find your local council online and enter your postcode. Compose an email to your local council, attaching your student enrolment letter, and include details like your move-in date, contract end date, and your intention to claim council tax exemption. Sending this email promptly upon moving into your accommodation ensures you won't be charged council tax. This exemption is a valuable benefit for students, so be sure to follow these steps to save money and stay compliant with local regulations.
Renting a home in the UK can be a complex process, especially for international students. Being informed about the requirements, payment terms, and rental market dynamics will help you navigate this process with greater ease and confidence. Remember, it's crucial to maintain clear communication with us and ensure that all necessary documents and codes are in place before starting your tenancy.