Lettings
We specialise in providing high-quality student properties in prime locations, including areas close to the University of Birmingham. Contact us today – [email protected]
At House Hunt, we specialise in providing high-quality student properties in prime locations, including areas close to the University of Birmingham and just a 10-minute train ride from Aston University and Birmingham City University (BCU). We understand that finding the right student property is an essential part of your university experience, and our dedicated lettings team is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
With years of experience in the student rental market, we offer a diverse range of properties to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a modern studio, a shared house with friends, or a larger student accommodation, we have the perfect property for you. All our properties are conveniently located near university campuses, transport links, and local amenities, ensuring you get the best student living experience.
Our friendly team is always on hand to guide you through every step of the process, from finding the right property to signing your tenancy agreement. We pride ourselves on offering transparent, reliable, and professional service, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable in your new student home.
Explore our listings today and let House Hunt help you find the ideal student property for your university journey!
How to Rent a Property with House Hunt
Step 1: Let Us Know What You’re Looking For
Tell us about your ideal rental home. Whether it’s location, size, or specific features, we’ll match your criteria and send you a selection of properties that suit your needs.
Step 2: Shortlist and View
Review the properties we send over and select the ones you’d like to view. Once you’ve found the ones that catch your eye, it’s time to schedule a viewing to narrow down your choices.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you’ve found your ideal property, email us at [email protected] with the following details for ALL TENANTS:
- Full name (as per identification)
- Contact number
- Email address
Please pay the reservation fee to the provided bank details. Once this is received, the property will be taken off the market, and you’ll have 5 days to complete the necessary documents.
Step 4: Documents Required
- Application Form: Student ID, Proof of Address, and Passport
- Guarantor Form: Proof of Address, Proof of Employment, UK Passport
- Pay the remaining deposit and sign the agreement.
Step 5: Tenancy Agreement
We’ll send you the tenancy agreement via Adobe Sign for all tenants to review and sign electronically.
Step 6: Move-In Day
Closer to your move-in date, we’ll contact you to schedule a key collection slot. On the big day, collect your keys and step into your new property! If you need assistance during the move-in process, we’re just a call or message away.
Welcome to your new property!
Deposit Return Process
Surrender of Tenancy
Once all keys have been returned to us, a Surrender of Tenancy confirmation email will be sent to you. This email serves as formal confirmation that your tenancy has ended, and you will no longer have the right to access the property.
Our team will then inspect the returned keys to ensure that:
- No keys are missing
- No keys are damaged or broken
- No unauthorized copies have been made
Please ensure all personal belongings are removed from the property before returning the keys. Any items left behind will be considered abandoned and will be disposed of. As the tenancy has officially ended, you will not be granted re-entry to retrieve any remaining possessions.
Any issues with keys or remaining items may result in deductions from your deposit.
Property Inspection
Following the surrender of tenancy, the property will be inspected by the landlord. This inspection will include all bedrooms, bathrooms, and communal areas.
During this process, we will assess:
- The level of cleaning required
- Any damage beyond fair wear and tear
- The findings from this inspection will be used to determine any necessary deductions from the deposit.
Review of Tenancy Agreement and Inventory
We will compare the property’s condition to the original inventory and the terms of your tenancy agreement.
This includes:
- The move-in condition of the property
Any agreed-upon responsibilities (e.g., cleaning, garden maintenance)
Finalising Deductions (if applicable)
If deductions are required (for cleaning, damage, or missing items), a detailed breakdown will be sent to you.
You will have the opportunity to:
- Review the proposed deductions
Raise any questions or disputes prior to finalisation
Return of Deposit
Once all checks are complete and any deductions have been agreed, your deposit (or the remaining balance) will be returned.
The deposit will be returned within 28 days of returning your keys.
FAQs
Is House Hunt open on weekends?
Yes! House Hunt is open on Saturdays during peak periods, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Our friendly team is always happy to assist you.
What are my main responsibilities as a tenant?
As a tenant, you are responsible for:
- Paying your rent on time, which is due on the 20th of each month. The lead tenant is responsible for making the full rent payment on behalf of everyone in the household.
- Covering all utility bills, including water, gas, electricity, internet, and the TV license.
- Ensuring all utility accounts are transferred into your name(s) when you move in.
If you are part of a joint tenancy, all tenants share equal responsibility for rent and bills. Any outstanding payments or arrears are the joint responsibility of all tenants and may result in late fees.
Additionally, tenants must promptly report any damage or required repairs to the property to ensure issues are addressed quickly.
Do full-time students need to pay council tax?
No, full-time students are exempt from paying council tax, provided all household members are full-time students. To qualify, you’ll need to provide Birmingham City Council with a copy of your tenancy agreement and proof of your student status, such as your student ID or a confirmation letter from your university.
What is the next step once I’ve chosen a property?
To secure your chosen property, you will need to:
- Complete a Student Application Form.
- Provide 3 forms of ID: your student ID, passport or driver’s license, and proof of address.
- Submit your Guarantor Form along with copies of your guarantor’s ID: UK passport, proof of address, and proof of employment (such as a bank statement, P60, or the last 3 months of payslips).
- Pay the security deposit.
Once all documents and payments have been received, you’ll be able to sign your tenancy agreement. For full details, please refer to our Lettings Page.
Can I renew or shorten my tenancy agreement after signing?
- Renew: Yes, you can request to renew your tenancy for the next academic year, provided the property has not already been let. We recommend letting us know as early as possible—ideally in September when the new letting season begins.
- Shorten: No, the tenancy agreement is for a fixed term and cannot be shortened.
Are there any additional fees?
There are no additional fees for signing up or during your tenancy.
If you decide to withdraw from your tenancy, your deposit will be refunded minus a novation fee, which covers the costs of transferring your tenancy to a replacement tenant.
For more information, please contact us at [email protected].
What’s the process for moving in and out?
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Moving In:
You will receive an email about a month before your move-in date with a key collection slot. One person from your group will collect the keys on behalf of all tenants. On the key collection day, you’ll receive a ‘Moving In’ booklet containing essential property information. The inventory form will be emailed to you, and you’ll have 7 days from your move-in date to report any issues or maintenance concerns, which we will address promptly.
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Moving Out:
Two weeks before your tenancy ends, you’ll receive an email outlining the requirements for leaving the property, including a list of recommended cleaning products. We will also call you to confirm that you have received and understood the email. A check-out report will be completed within 24 hours of you vacating the property.
Do I need to pay a deposit, and is it refundable?
Yes, a security deposit (usually equivalent to one month’s rent) is required. It’s protected in a government-approved scheme (MyDeposits). The deposit is refundable at the end of your tenancy, provided there’s no damage or unpaid bills. Learn more at www.mydeposits.co.uk.
Can I reserve a property without a complete group?
Yes, you can reserve a property without a complete group, but the full deposit must be paid within 7 days of booking. You will then have until 1st June to find your remaining tenants to add to the tenancy agreement.
How do I pay my rent?
Rent is typically paid by bank transfer. The lead tenant is responsible for paying the full rent on behalf of all tenants. We strongly encourage setting up a standing order, as it’s the simplest method. Full payment details are provided when you sign your tenancy agreement.
If a tenant fails to pay their share to the lead tenant, the lead tenant must inform us which tenant has not paid. We will then follow up directly with that tenant and their guarantor. However, please note that under a joint tenancy agreement, all tenants are collectively liable for the full rent—meaning any unpaid amount can legally be pursued from any or all tenants.
What happens if something breaks or there’s an emergency repair?
You must report any damage or required repairs as soon as possible. For emergency repairs (e.g., a major water leak), contact House Hunt immediately using the emergency number provided in your ‘Moving In’ booklet. Additionally, please email [email protected] with photos and videos to create a clear audit trail.
Are pets allowed in the property?
No, pets are not allowed under any circumstances.
What should I do if I want to leave before my tenancy ends?
Your tenancy agreement is legally binding for its full term. If you need to leave early, you may find a replacement tenant (subject to landlord approval). However, you remain responsible for rent payments until a suitable replacement is found and all required paperwork is completed.
With our proactive approach and in-depth knowledge of the student property market, we ensure your property reaches the right buyers and achieves the best possible sale price. From marketing and negotiations to finalising the sale, we take care of everything so you can enjoy a hassle-free experience. If you’re thinking about selling your student property, contact our Sales Team today—we’re ready to help you achieve the best results.