
Based on checking the website, Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive platform for student accommodation in Gloucester.
The site showcases a wide range of properties, from single rooms to multi-bedroom houses, catering specifically to the needs of students attending institutions like the University of Gloucestershire and Hartpury College.
It emphasizes convenience through features like all-inclusive bills including Netflix and Virgin SuperFast broadband and provides clear details on property specifics such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and parking availability.
For students navigating the challenging housing market, a specialized service like this can be incredibly beneficial, simplifying the search and offering tailored options.
The website also includes testimonials and a blog section with practical advice, adding a layer of perceived support for students during their tenancy.
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Reviews Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon an initial review of Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk, the platform presents itself as a dedicated and streamlined service for student housing in Gloucester.
The homepage immediately highlights its core offering: “The place for student houses in Gloucester,” underscoring its niche focus.
This specialized approach can be a significant advantage for students, as it filters out irrelevant listings often found on general property sites.
Website Navigation and User Experience
The website’s design is clean and intuitive, making it easy for prospective tenants to navigate.
- Clear Categories: Properties are well-categorized, allowing users to quickly see available listings.
- Search Filters: Basic search options like “Sort Option,” “Price,” “Bedrooms,” and “Price with ensuite” are available, although more advanced filters e.g., proximity to specific university campuses, specific amenities could enhance the user experience further.
- Contact Information: Contact details email and phone number, including WhatsApp are prominently displayed, indicating accessibility for inquiries.
Initial Impressions of Property Listings
The property listings themselves are detailed, providing essential information at a glance. Doktermarie.com Reviews
- Key Data Points: For each property, users can quickly see the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and parking availability.
- Rental Information: Monthly rental prices are clearly stated, often with a range if applicable e.g., “£575 – £595 per month each”.
- Inclusive Bills: A significant selling point highlighted is the “One Bill, Everything You Need!” package, which for some properties includes Netflix and Virgin SuperFast broadband with unlimited download. This all-inclusive approach simplifies budgeting for students, removing the stress of managing multiple utility accounts.
- Property Descriptions: Each listing includes a brief but informative description, detailing location advantages and unique features. For example, “Located right in the heart of the city and minutes from train and bus stations a fantastic professional household.”
The overall first impression is one of professionalism and user-centric design, focused on meeting the specific needs of the student demographic in Gloucester.
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Features
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk offers a suite of features designed to simplify the student housing search and tenancy experience.
These features go beyond basic property listings, aiming to provide a comprehensive service.
All-Inclusive Packages
One of the standout features is the provision of all-inclusive rental packages.
- Simplified Budgeting: Many properties advertised explicitly state “One Bill, Everything You Need!” This simplifies financial planning for students, as they don’t have to worry about separate bills for utilities, internet, or entertainment.
- Included Amenities: Typical inclusions, as seen on the website, are:
- Netflix: The inclusion of entertainment services like Netflix adds significant value, enhancing the living experience and providing a ready source of leisure.
- Communal Cleaner: Some listings, like “10 St Michaels Square,” specifically mention that “Rent includes a communal cleaner,” which is a considerable benefit for shared student houses, helping maintain cleanliness and reduce potential conflicts among housemates.
- Transparent Pricing: The monthly price per person is clearly stated, preventing hidden costs and allowing students to budget effectively from the outset.
Virtual Viewings and Extensive Property Details
The website leverages technology to provide detailed insights into properties. Fotomodeliai.lt Reviews
- Virtual Viewing Availability: The mention of “FULL Virtual Viewing Available – CLICK HERE” for some properties is a significant advantage, especially for international or out-of-town students who cannot physically visit the properties. This feature demonstrates a commitment to accessibility and convenience.
- High-Quality Photography: Listings include multiple high-resolution pictures e.g., “7Pictures”, “17Pictures”, offering a comprehensive visual tour of the interior and exterior of the houses. This helps prospective tenants get a realistic sense of the property’s condition and layout.
- Detailed Specifications: Each listing provides key specifications such as:
- Number of Bedrooms
- Number of Bathrooms including notes on en-suites
- Parking availability “YesParkings”, “NoParkings”
- Specific notes on room rates for larger properties, breaking down costs per room for clarity.
Student Support and Resources
Beyond property listings, the website aims to support students through their tenancy.
-
“The Kitchen Table” Blog: This section offers “student life advice” on topics such as:
- “Your guide to checking out” July 18, 2023
- “How can I recycle more?” May 23, 2023
- “What’s the deal with drains?” April 5, 2023
- “What’s the deal with condensation?” March 19, 2023
- “How to get the most out of Student discounts” Nov 23, 2022
This blog serves as a valuable resource, providing practical tips on household management, budgeting, and general student welfare, which can be particularly helpful for students living away from home for the first time.
-
Testimonials: The “Testimonial” section features positive feedback from previous tenants, such as Jenny Finn, a Nursing Student, who praised the “upkeep, help and good nature of Gloucester Student Houses,” highlighting their responsiveness to issues like being locked out or boiler problems. This builds trust and credibility.
-
Partnerships: The “Our Partners” section suggests collaborations with “leading organisations for better student property management,” implying a network of support and quality assurance. Maperle.dk Reviews
These features collectively indicate a service that understands the unique challenges and needs of students, striving to offer a hassle-free and supportive living experience.
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Pros & Cons
When evaluating Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk, it’s essential to look at both the strengths and potential areas for improvement.
Pros
The platform offers several significant advantages for students seeking accommodation in Gloucester:
- Specialized Student Focus: The website is exclusively dedicated to student housing in Gloucester, meaning properties are curated to meet student needs e.g., proximity to universities, shared living arrangements. This eliminates the noise of general rental markets.
- All-Inclusive Bills: A major draw is the inclusion of utilities electricity, gas, water, high-speed internet Virgin SuperFast broadband, and sometimes entertainment Netflix in the rent. This simplifies budgeting and avoids the hassle of setting up multiple accounts. In one listing, it’s explicitly stated: “FULL Virtual Viewing Available – CLICK HEREOne Bill, Everything You Need! Includes:* Netflix* Virgin SuperFast broadband with unlimited download.” This transparency is a huge benefit for students.
- Clear Property Information: Each listing provides comprehensive details, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, parking availability, and clear pricing per person. This helps students make informed decisions quickly.
- Virtual Viewing Options: The availability of virtual tours for some properties e.g., the 8-bedroom house at 3 Berkeley Street is a modern convenience, particularly useful for students who cannot view properties in person due to distance or time constraints.
- Responsive Contact Channels: Prominently displayed contact information, including email and WhatsApp, suggests easy and direct communication with the management, which is crucial for quick inquiries and problem resolution.
- Student Resources and Support: The “Kitchen Table” blog offers practical advice on student living, covering topics from budgeting to maintenance, showing a commitment to supporting tenants beyond just providing a roof over their heads. Testimonials also build trust and credibility.
- Award-Winning Business: The claim of being an “award-winning business” lends credibility and suggests a commitment to high standards in student accommodation.
Cons
While the service offers many benefits, there are a few areas where it could potentially be improved or where users might find limitations:
- Limited Search Filters: While basic sorting is available price, bedrooms, en-suite, more advanced filters would be beneficial. For example, filtering by specific university campus proximity University of Gloucestershire, Hartpury College, specific amenities e.g., washing machine, dishwasher, garden access beyond just “parking”, or desired contract length.
- Pricing Structure Nuance: While prices are generally clear, some listings show a price range e.g., “£575 – £625 per month each” without immediately clarifying what determines the higher end of the range. This might require further inquiry. For example, for the 8 bedroom house at 10 St Pauls Road, specific room rates are listed for 2025/26, but for others, the range is less detailed upfront.
- Lack of Direct Booking/Application System: The website primarily functions as a listing and inquiry platform. There doesn’t appear to be an integrated online application or booking system. Students would need to contact the agency directly for the next steps, which, while standard, isn’t as seamless as some modern rental platforms.
- Limited Visuals for Some Properties: While many properties have extensive photos, some might have fewer e.g., “1Pictures” for 102 Alfred Street, which could make it harder to assess the property fully without a virtual or physical viewing.
- No Direct Tenant Review System: While testimonials are present, a dynamic system for current or past tenants to leave reviews directly on property listings could provide more transparent and varied feedback for prospective renters. This is a common feature on many modern rental platforms.
- Dependency on External Communication: While contact info is good, all significant steps inquiries, applications, resolving issues seem to require direct email or phone communication, which some users might find less convenient than fully integrated online portals for managing their tenancy.
Overall, Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk offers a strong, specialized service for student housing. Innsteel.dk Reviews
The “pros” heavily outweigh the “cons,” especially for students prioritizing convenience, clear budgeting, and dedicated support.
The areas for improvement are mainly related to enhancing the digital user experience with more advanced filtering and integrated online processes.
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Pricing
Understanding the pricing structure of Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk is straightforward, as they clearly display monthly rates for each property, often emphasizing their all-inclusive model.
Monthly Rental Rates
The primary pricing model is a monthly rental rate per person.
- Range of Prices: The website showcases a range of prices depending on the property size, location, and included amenities. For instance:
- £450 per month each for a single-let apartment block at 57 Westgate Street.
- £545 – £575 per month each for a 6-bedroom house at 14 St Pauls Road.
- £600 – £650 per month each for an 8-bedroom house at 3 Berkeley Street.
- Individual Room Rates: For larger properties with multiple bedrooms, specific room rates might be detailed, as seen for the 8-bedroom house at 10 St Pauls Road, which lists room rates ranging from £525 to £595 per month for the 2025/26 academic year. This transparency allows students to understand the cost per room within a shared house.
All-Inclusive Model
A significant aspect of their pricing is the “One Bill, Everything You Need!” approach. Raisesnacks.co.uk Reviews
This means the advertised monthly rent generally includes:
- Utilities: Electricity, gas, and water costs are typically covered.
- Internet: High-speed broadband, often specified as “Virgin SuperFast broadband with unlimited download.” This saves students the hassle and cost of setting up and managing their own internet accounts.
- Entertainment: In many cases, Netflix is included, adding value for leisure.
- Other Services: Some properties specifically mention a “communal cleaner” included in the rent, reducing the burden of house chores and potential disputes among housemates.
Deposit and Other Potential Costs
While the website focuses on monthly rent, potential tenants should always inquire about:
- Security Deposit: Standard in rental agreements, a security deposit is typically required to cover potential damages or unpaid rent. The website does not explicitly state the amount or terms of the deposit on the property listings, so direct inquiry is necessary.
- Upfront Payments: It’s common for landlords or agencies to request the first month’s rent in advance, sometimes along with the security deposit.
- Holding Fees: Some agencies might charge a holding fee to reserve a property while references are being checked, which is usually deducted from the first rent payment or deposit if the tenancy proceeds.
- Application Fees: While less common now due to regulatory changes in some regions, it’s always worth confirming if any non-refundable application fees are levied.
Based on the information provided on the website, the pricing model appears designed to be transparent and convenient for students, bundling essential services into one monthly payment to simplify financial management during their studies.
Prospective tenants should confirm all specific terms and conditions directly with Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk.
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk vs. General Property Portals
When students in Gloucester look for housing, they often face a choice: specialized student accommodation providers like Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk or broad general property portals. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Nimiceco.com.au Reviews
Advantages of Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk
- Tailored for Students: Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk focuses exclusively on student housing. This means:
- Property Suitability: Properties are typically already set up for multi-occupancy, often with multiple bathrooms and communal spaces designed for student living.
- Location Focus: Listings are strategically located near university campuses University of Gloucestershire, Hartpury College and key transport links.
- Student-Specific Leases: Tenancy agreements are usually designed to align with academic calendars, offering flexible start/end dates that might not be available on general portals.
- All-Inclusive Convenience: A major differentiating factor is the “One Bill, Everything You Need!” model, often including utilities, high-speed internet, and even Netflix. This vastly simplifies budgeting and management for students. General portals rarely offer this as a standard feature. students usually have to set up and manage these accounts themselves.
- Dedicated Support: As a specialized agency, they likely have a deeper understanding of student needs and issues. Testimonials on their site, like Jenny Finn’s, suggest responsive support for common student problems. General portals are just listing services. direct support comes from individual landlords or diverse letting agents.
- Virtual Viewings: The offering of “FULL Virtual Viewing Available” for some properties is a significant advantage, especially for students relocating from other cities or countries, who might not be able to conduct physical viewings. This feature is not universally available or standardized across all listings on general portals.
- Vetted Properties: The implication of an “award-winning business” and partnerships suggests a level of quality control and adherence to standards for their properties, which might vary greatly on open-access general portals.
Disadvantages Compared to General Property Portals
- Limited Inventory: While they offer a good selection 80 results returned on the homepage, a specialized site will inherently have a smaller inventory compared to massive general portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, or OnTheMarket, which list thousands of properties across all types.
- Less Variety in Property Types: Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk focuses on shared student houses and apartment blocks. If a student is looking for a family home, a professional flat share, or a high-end luxury apartment not typically marketed to students, they might find more options on general portals.
- Less Negotiation Flexibility Potentially: With all-inclusive packages, there might be less room to negotiate individual components of the rent e.g., if a student doesn’t need Netflix, they typically can’t remove it for a lower price. On general portals, rent might be negotiable, and students can choose their own utility providers.
- Geographical Limitation: Their focus is strictly on Gloucester. Students looking for housing in other cities or even different parts of the UK would need to use other platforms.
Conclusion on Comparison
For students specifically looking for hassle-free, all-inclusive, and well-managed shared accommodation in Gloucester, Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk appears to be a highly convenient and efficient choice.
The streamlined process, student-centric amenities, and dedicated support outweigh the broader but less specialized inventory found on general property portals.
However, for those seeking maximum choice, specific niche property types, or the ability to manage utilities independently, general portals might offer more flexibility.
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Alternatives
For students searching for accommodation in Gloucester, several alternatives exist, ranging from other specialized student housing providers to university-run accommodations and general rental platforms.
Each option comes with its own set of characteristics, and the best choice often depends on a student’s specific needs, budget, and preferences. Diamondmediapressco.com Reviews
University Accommodation University of Gloucestershire & Hartpury College
- Direct from the Source: Both the University of Gloucestershire and Hartpury College typically offer their own halls of residence or managed accommodation.
- Pros:
- Guaranteed Quality: Often purpose-built or well-maintained, meeting university standards for safety and living conditions.
- Proximity: Usually located on or very close to campus, ideal for minimizing commute times.
- Integrated Support: Students living in university accommodation often have direct access to pastoral support, resident advisors, and maintenance teams.
- Community: Halls of residence are excellent for meeting other students and building a social network quickly.
- Bills Included: Similar to Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk, university accommodation almost always includes all utilities and internet in the rent.
- Cons:
- Limited Availability: Often primarily for first-year students, and spots can be competitive.
- Less Independence: More rules and regulations compared to private housing.
- Fixed Contracts: Less flexibility with tenancy dates outside the academic year.
- Potential for Higher Cost: Some university halls can be more expensive than private options, depending on the facilities.
- Pros:
Private Student Housing Providers Other Agencies
There are other private letting agents and companies in Gloucester that specialize in or have a significant portfolio of student properties.
- Examples based on a quick search for “student housing Gloucester”:
- Student Cribs: A large national provider with properties in many university cities, including Gloucester. They typically offer high-quality, well-maintained shared houses.
- Local Letting Agents: Many general letting agents in Gloucester e.g., The Property Centre, C&G Residential will also have student properties in their listings, though it might not be their sole focus.
- Pros:
- Variety: Might offer a broader range of property styles and sizes.
- Competition: Multiple providers can lead to competitive pricing and more choices.
- Similar Convenience: Some private providers also offer all-inclusive bills or property management services.
- Cons:
- Varying Quality: The quality of service and properties can vary significantly between different private agencies.
- Less Specialization: General agents might not understand specific student needs as well as a dedicated student housing provider.
- No Centralized Search: You often need to check multiple websites and agents.
General Property Rental Portals
Large national property listing websites are another option, though less specialized.
- Examples:
- Rightmove: The UK’s largest property portal, with a vast array of properties including houses and flats to rent.
- Zoopla: Another major UK property website with extensive listings.
- OnTheMarket: A newer but growing property portal.
- Massive Inventory: Access to the largest number of properties, including those not marketed specifically as “student housing.”
- Direct Landlords: Opportunity to rent directly from landlords, potentially avoiding agency fees though this is less common now.
- Flexibility: More diverse range of properties, potentially offering more flexible terms or different types of living arrangements.
- Time-Consuming: Requires significant effort to filter through non-student properties and identify suitable ones.
- Bills Not Included: Almost all properties on these portals will require students to set up and manage their own utility, internet, and council tax accounts.
- No Student Support: No inherent student-specific support or community features.
- Varying Quality of Landlords/Agents: Dealing with a wide range of individual landlords or local agents means quality and responsiveness can be inconsistent.
When considering alternatives to Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk, students should weigh the convenience of all-inclusive packages and dedicated student support against the broader choice and potential for more independent living found elsewhere.
For those seeking a hassle-free, well-managed student-focused experience, Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk appears to be a strong contender alongside university accommodation.
Ethical Considerations in Student Housing
When engaging with any housing provider, especially in a student context, it’s vital to consider the ethical implications of the transaction and ensure it aligns with principles of fairness, transparency, and responsibility. For a Muslim, this extends to ensuring the financial mechanisms are free from riba interest and that the dealings are halal. Spaceping.com Reviews
Avoiding Riba Interest in Housing Transactions
The concept of riba is strictly prohibited in Islamic finance. This prohibition applies to both receiving and paying interest.
- Conventional Mortgages and Loans: Traditional home financing through interest-based loans is a direct violation of this principle. Students renting may not directly engage in mortgages, but it’s important to be aware of the landlord’s financing if possible, although for a rental agreement, the tenant’s primary concern is their own contract.
- Credit Cards for Deposits/Rent: Using interest-bearing credit cards to pay deposits or rent can indirectly involve riba if the balance isn’t paid off in full immediately.
- Late Payment Fees: Some rental agreements might include late payment fees that could be considered riba if they are disproportionately high or designed as penalties that increase over time rather than covering actual administrative costs.
Better Alternatives for Housing Finance:
- Halal Financing: For property ownership, Islamic finance offers alternatives like Murabaha cost-plus financing, Musharakah partnership, or Ijarah leasing. While these are for purchasing, the underlying principle of avoiding interest is paramount.
- Cash Payment: The most straightforward halal method for rent and deposits is to pay in cash or through direct bank transfers from funds already owned, avoiding credit card debt with interest.
- Budgeting and Saving: Encouraging students to budget carefully and save for their rent and living expenses minimizes reliance on credit and debt.
- Negotiating Fair Terms: When reviewing rental agreements, students should ideally seek clear and fair terms, questioning any ambiguous fees or charges to ensure they are not disguised interest or exploitative penalties.
Transparent Dealings and Fair Treatment
Beyond riba, Islamic ethics emphasize honesty, justice, and fair treatment in all transactions.
- Clear Contracts: Rental agreements should be clear, comprehensive, and easy to understand, outlining all rights and responsibilities of both tenant and landlord. Ambiguity can lead to disputes.
- Maintenance and Upkeep: Landlords have a responsibility to provide safe and habitable living conditions and to address maintenance issues promptly. The website’s testimonials suggesting good upkeep and swift help “No problem was ever too big to hastily deal with, from being locked out to a busted boiler!” indicate a positive approach in this regard.
- Respect for Privacy: Landlords should respect tenants’ privacy and provide adequate notice before entering the property.
- Fair Deposit Returns: Security deposits should be returned promptly at the end of the tenancy, with any deductions clearly itemized and justified.
- Honest Representation: Property descriptions and virtual tours should accurately represent the condition and features of the property. Misleading information is unethical.
Community and Responsible Living
Student housing, especially shared accommodation, presents opportunities for fostering positive community and responsible living.
- Respectful Coexistence: Encouraging students to live respectfully with housemates, manage shared spaces, and minimize disturbance to neighbors aligns with Islamic principles of good conduct akhlaq.
- Environmental Responsibility: Promoting practices like recycling “How can I recycle more?” from their blog and energy conservation is a form of amanah trust in managing resources.
- Avoiding Harm: Ensuring that the living environment does not promote or facilitate any activities that are considered impermissible in Islam e.g., excessive noise, parties involving alcohol, gambling, or other immoral behaviors is important. While the agency cannot control tenant behavior entirely, their implicit promotion of a “professional household” suggests a certain standard.
In essence, while Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk provides a practical service, students should approach their housing decisions with a mindful perspective, ensuring that the financial arrangements are halal and that the living environment supports a life of ethical conduct and responsibility. This proactive approach not only benefits the individual but also contributes to a more just and harmonious community. Hobartuk.com Reviews
How to Cancel Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Tenancy
While Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk primarily facilitates finding student accommodation, the process of canceling a tenancy or withdrawing from an agreement requires careful attention to the terms and conditions outlined in the rental contract.
As the website functions as a listing and inquiry platform rather than a direct booking portal, cancellation procedures will invariably hinge on the specifics of the signed tenancy agreement.
Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement
The first and most crucial step is to meticulously review your signed tenancy agreement.
This legally binding document will contain clauses pertaining to:
- Notice Periods: The minimum period of notice required before vacating the property. This is typically one or two months, but can vary.
- Early Termination Clauses: Specific conditions under which a tenancy can be terminated early, and any associated penalties or responsibilities.
- Break Clauses: Some fixed-term agreements may include a “break clause” allowing either party to terminate the agreement early, provided certain conditions and notice periods are met.
- Joint and Several Liability: For shared student houses, it’s common for contracts to stipulate “joint and several liability.” This means all tenants are individually and collectively responsible for the entire rent and any damages. If one tenant leaves, the others remain liable for the full rent unless a replacement is found or the agreement is formally ended for all.
- Deposit Return Policy: Details on how and when your security deposit will be returned, and common reasons for deductions e.g., damages, cleaning costs.
Steps to Potentially Cancel or Exit a Tenancy
If you need to end your tenancy with Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk or the landlord they represent prematurely, consider these steps: Farmingdaleaviation.com Reviews
- Review Your Contract Immediately: Before doing anything else, pull out your signed tenancy agreement. Highlight all clauses related to “Notice,” “Termination,” “Break Clause,” and “Joint and Several Liability.” This document is your guide.
- Contact Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk Directly: Reach out to them via their listed contact methods email: [email protected] or phone: 07586 702450, WhatsApp to discuss your situation. Be clear and concise about your intentions.
- State Your Intent: Inform them you wish to end your tenancy and inquire about the formal process.
- Seek Clarification: Ask specific questions about any fees, liabilities, or requirements for finding a replacement tenant.
- Formal Written Notice: Always follow up any verbal communication with a formal written notice email is usually acceptable, but check if postal mail is required by your contract. This creates a paper trail.
- Include Key Details: Your name, property address, desired move-out date, and a clear statement that you are serving notice according to your tenancy agreement.
- Reference Contract Clauses: Quote relevant clauses from your agreement if applicable e.g., “As per Clause X of our agreement, I am giving Y months’ notice…”.
- Finding a Replacement Tenant If Required/Allowed: Many student tenancy agreements, especially for shared houses, require the departing tenant to find a suitable replacement if they leave before the contract ends.
- Advertise the Room: You might need to advertise your room with the landlord’s permission on social media, university housing groups, or even general property sites.
- Landlord Approval: Any replacement tenant must be approved by the landlord/agency, and they may conduct credit checks and referencing.
- Costs: You might be liable for a proportion of the rent until a replacement is found and moves in, or for administrative costs associated with changing the tenancy agreement.
- Financial Obligations: Be prepared to fulfill your financial obligations until the tenancy is legally ended, which might include rent until a new tenant takes over or until the contract naturally expires.
- Check-Out Procedures: Once a departure date is set, adhere to all check-out procedures, such as cleaning the property, arranging for utility final readings, and returning keys. This is crucial for the timely return of your security deposit.
Important Considerations:
- Early Termination Fees: Be aware that early termination often incurs fees, which are typically for administrative costs or to compensate the landlord for lost rent. These should be reasonable and clearly outlined in the contract.
- Legal Advice: If you are unsure about your contract or believe the terms are unfair, consider seeking advice from your university’s student advice centre, Citizens Advice, or a housing solicitor.
- Communication is Key: Maintaining open and honest communication with Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk throughout the process can help facilitate a smoother resolution.
Remember, a signed tenancy agreement is a legally binding document.
Understanding its terms is paramount before entering into it, and vital when contemplating early departure.
Student Housing Tips for Gloucester
Finding the right student house in Gloucester can make a huge difference to your university experience.
Beyond just finding a bed, it’s about securing a safe, comfortable, and conducive environment for studying and living. Getmybet.com Reviews
Here are some expert tips to navigate the student housing market in Gloucester.
1. Start Your Search Early
- Demand is High: Gloucester is home to the University of Gloucestershire and Hartpury College, leading to high demand for student accommodation, especially for popular properties.
- Prime Time: The best houses, especially those with all-inclusive bills or in prime locations, get snapped up quickly. Aim to start your serious search between November and February for the following academic year starting September.
- Virtual Viewings: If you can’t be in Gloucester, utilize virtual tours offered by agencies like Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk. This lets you shortlist properties remotely.
2. Define Your Priorities
Before you even look at listings, sit down with your potential housemates and decide what’s important.
- Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford, including rent and any additional bills though agencies like Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk often bundle these. A typical student rent in Gloucester, as seen on the website, ranges from £450 to £650 per person per month, which often includes bills.
- Location:
- Proximity to Campus: How close do you want to be to your lectures? Consider walking distance, bus routes, or cycling.
- Amenities: Do you want to be near shops, supermarkets, nightlife, or green spaces?
- Safety: Research neighborhood safety.
- Housemates: How many people do you want to live with? What are their living habits? Compatibility is key in shared housing.
- Property Type: House, apartment, en-suite rooms? Decide what suits your lifestyle.
- Key Features: Prioritize non-negotiables like:
- Number of bathrooms: Crucial for larger groups.
- Parking: Essential if you have a car.
- Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Most student properties are furnished.
- Internet speed: Vital for studies and leisure. Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk boasts “Virgin SuperFast broadband with unlimited download” in many of their properties.
3. Thoroughly Inspect Properties Virtually or In-Person
- Virtual Tours: As highlighted, Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk offers “FULL Virtual Viewing Available” for some properties. Utilize these to get a detailed look.
- In-Person Viewings: If possible, visit properties in person.
- Check for Damp/Mould: Especially in older properties.
- Test Appliances: Heating, hot water, oven, fridge, washing machine.
- Water Pressure: A quick check of taps and showers.
- Security: Locks on doors and windows.
- Condition of Furniture: Note any existing damage to avoid deposit disputes later.
- Communal Areas: Look at cleanliness and condition of shared spaces.
4. Read the Contract Carefully Every Single Word
This is perhaps the most critical step.
Never sign a contract you haven’t fully understood.
- Joint and Several Liability: Understand if you and your housemates are “jointly and severally liable.” This means if one person can’t pay their share, the others are responsible for the full rent.
- Notice Periods and Break Clauses: Know how and when you can end the tenancy.
- Deposit Protection Scheme: Ensure your deposit will be protected in a government-backed scheme e.g., Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits, Tenancy Deposit Scheme. This is a legal requirement in the UK.
- Inclusive Bills: Confirm exactly what’s included in “all-inclusive” packages. Are there caps on usage? What happens if you exceed them?
- Maintenance Responsibilities: Clarify who is responsible for what repairs.
- Inventory: Insist on a detailed inventory at the start of the tenancy, ideally with photos or videos. This protects your deposit.
5. Ask Questions and Get Everything in Writing
- Don’t Be Shy: Ask the agency like Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk or landlord any questions you have, no matter how small.
- Confirmation in Writing: Always get important agreements, changes, or promises in writing email is usually sufficient.
- Emergency Contacts: Ensure you have clear contact details for emergencies and maintenance issues. Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk highlights their responsiveness in testimonials, which is a good sign.
6. Consider Your Needs Beyond Rent
- Student Support: Does the agency offer support or resources, like the “Kitchen Table” blog on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk? This can be invaluable for first-time renters.
- Reputation: Look for testimonials or reviews. The “award-winning business” claim by Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk suggests a positive reputation.
- Council Tax Exemption: As a full-time student, you are typically exempt from council tax. Ensure you and your housemates provide proof of student status to the council.
By following these tips, students in Gloucester can increase their chances of finding a suitable, ethical, and hassle-free living situation that supports their academic and personal well-being. Carefulmovers.com.au Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk?
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk is a dedicated online platform that specializes in providing student accommodation in Gloucester, primarily catering to students attending the University of Gloucestershire and Hartpury College.
It lists a range of properties from individual rooms to multi-bedroom houses.
Does Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk offer all-inclusive bills?
Yes, many of the properties listed on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk come with an “One Bill, Everything You Need!” package.
This typically includes utilities like electricity, gas, water, high-speed broadband often Virgin SuperFast, and sometimes entertainment services like Netflix, along with communal cleaners for some properties.
What kind of properties are available on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk?
The website features a variety of properties, including single-let apartment blocks, and multi-bedroom student houses ranging from 3 to 10 bedrooms. Blackbearitsolutions.co.uk Reviews
These properties are typically furnished and set up for shared student living.
How do I contact Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk?
You can contact Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk via email at [email protected] or by phone/WhatsApp at 07586 702450. Their contact details are prominently displayed on their website.
Can I view properties virtually on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk?
Yes, some properties on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk offer “FULL Virtual Viewing Available,” allowing prospective tenants to tour the property remotely before committing to a physical viewing.
What are the typical rental prices on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk?
Rental prices vary depending on the property size, location, and included amenities.
Based on the website, prices generally range from £450 to £650 per month per person, often with bills included. Offshorepicks.net Reviews
Are deposits required for properties listed on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk?
While the website doesn’t explicitly state deposit amounts on the property listings, it is standard practice for rental agreements to require a security deposit.
Prospective tenants should inquire directly with the agency for specific deposit details.
Is Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk an award-winning business?
Yes, the website states that they are “An award winning business offering student houses in Gloucester,” which suggests a recognized level of quality and service.
Does Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk provide any student support resources?
Yes, the website features a blog section called “The Kitchen Table” which offers practical advice and tips for student life, covering topics like budgeting, recycling, and general household management.
How do I know if a property is available for the next academic year?
Property listings on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk often indicate their availability, with some explicitly stating “Rooms available now” or “Coming to the market ready for August 2025” for future academic years. Yourphotonecklace.co.uk Reviews
It’s best to contact them for the most up-to-date availability.
What should I look for in a tenancy agreement from Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk?
When reviewing a tenancy agreement, pay close attention to clauses regarding notice periods, early termination, joint and several liability for shared houses, deposit protection scheme details, and what exactly is included in the “all-inclusive” bills.
Can I cancel my tenancy with Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk early?
Canceling a tenancy early depends entirely on the terms of your signed tenancy agreement.
You should review your contract for any “break clauses” or early termination conditions and communicate directly with Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk to understand the process and potential liabilities.
What if I have a maintenance issue with my Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk property?
According to testimonials on their website, Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk is responsive to maintenance issues, with one student noting “No problem was ever too big to hastily deal with, from being locked out to a busted boiler!” You should contact them directly via the provided channels for any issues.
Are Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk properties furnished?
Based on the visual evidence and common practice for student housing, it is highly likely that properties listed on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk are furnished.
However, it’s always best to confirm specifics for each individual listing.
Does Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk help with finding replacement tenants?
If you need to leave a shared student house early, your tenancy agreement might require you to find a replacement tenant.
While Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk manages the property, you would need to discuss this directly with them to understand their process and if they offer assistance in finding a replacement.
Are there testimonials from past students available on the website?
Yes, Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk features a testimonial section with positive feedback from former tenants, highlighting their positive experiences with the service and property management.
What if I want a property with an en-suite bathroom?
The website’s search options include “Price with ensuite,” allowing you to filter for properties that specifically offer en-suite bathrooms, as seen in listings like “102 Alfred Street, Gloucester” which mentions “3 en-suites.”
How many pictures are typically available per property listing?
The number of pictures varies per property.
Some listings show a significant number of photos e.g., “17Pictures”, providing a comprehensive visual overview, while others may have fewer.
Does Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk offer properties with parking?
Yes, many listings on Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk specify “YesParkings” if parking is available, and “NoParkings” if it’s not.
Some properties even mention on-street parking without permit requirements.
What makes Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk different from general rental websites?
Gloucesterstudenthouses.co.uk specializes solely in student accommodation in Gloucester, offering tailored properties, often with all-inclusive bills, and potentially more student-specific support and understanding of student needs compared to broad general rental platforms.
Leave a Reply