Student lettings webinar: Your FAQs
The last 12 months have been challenging for student landlords, with the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act disproportionately impacting the student market.
We hosted a webinar for those of you who operate in the sector, or anyone thinking of moving into student lettings looking at the challenges and opportunities offered by the Renters’ Rights Act.
The session focussed on what you need to do to survive and thrive in the student market – with demand for student homes still strong across the UK.
The session, led by industry expert Steve Barnes, associate director of Total Landlord Insurance and Hamilton Fraser Insurance, discussed where demand is strongest, and the practical steps you can take to maximise occupancy and remain compliant.
Here are some of your frequently asked questions on the day.
Q: If we give the students four months' notice to leave under Section 8 Ground 4a, requiring possession on 1st June, can they later on, give me two months' notice but to leave say on the 1st May? Would they still be liable for the May rent as we asked first?
A: Yes, students are able to give two months' notice at any time, even if you have previously given the four-month notice required under Ground 4A. In the above example, the tenants would not be liable for rent from 1st May as they have given valid notice to end the tenancy from that date.
Q: Does the NRLA provide a contract for the new terms under the Renters' Rights Act?
A: Yes, we provide Renters' Rights Act-compliant student letting document templates, including tenancy agreements, and you can find these here- Student Lettings Resources | NRLA .
Q: Is it possible to take damage/security deposits outside of the six-month period prior to signing the contract?
A: You can take a security deposit before the tenancy is signed, in line with the Tenant Fees Act. You must protect this deposit and issue the prescribed information within the 30-day statutory period, no matter when the tenancy is signed. For further information please see our deposit guide: Deposit Protection Scheme Advice | Deposit Protection Help | NRLA .
Q: If a student in a non-HMO property doesn't leave at the end of the academic year, how I can get possession of my property ahead of the new academic year?
A: If a tenant refuses to voluntarily leave at the end of the academic year and you need to regain possession, you must use a valid ground under Section 8. You are not able to use Ground 4A as this is restricted to student HMO properties. You can find more information on how to end a periodic tenancy here: How landlords can end an assured periodic tenancy | NRLA or contact our landlord support team who can guide you through your options.
Q: With no section 21 or fixed terms, how can student landlords best protect themselves from rent arrears and other potential issues?
A: There are many things you can do to protect yourself. First, we advise all landlords to undertake thorough referencing including affordability checks as part of setting up a tenancy. Using guarantors can provide you with reassurance around rent arrears. We have full guidance and a free downloadable deed of guarantee available for our members.
You may also choose to take out landlord insurance - this can cover damage to the property, rent guarantee insurance, and legal insurance, depending on the level of cover taken out. If you're looking for options on insurance, we have a number of partners you can approach for a quote to find the right package for you.
More information
- For more information about student tenancies visit our dedicated resource pages here.
- Our award-winning training academy runs a specific Renters' Rights course for student landlords. For more information and to book click here.
