Students receive help in navigating private rental market

• University of Surrey launches new not-for-profit lettings agency on campus
• Landlords offered comprehensive management of properties at cost effective price
• Students who rent through University of Surrey Lettings are not charged any fees

The University of Surrey Lettings (USL) will work to ensure a fair deal for students and provide a professional service for landlords, a positive step forward in the sector. They will offer practical support and advice to students living off campus and make sure they are better equipped to deal with any problems they encounter with their accommodation. Students who rent properties through USL will never be charged any fees which is common practice among private letting agencies.

This newly-created service will help students be aware of their rights and responsibilities and offer comprehensive support when looking for properties to rent. USL will work in partnership with existing support provided by the University’s Student Support Centre and the Students’ Union.

This not-for-profit venture will also manage properties on behalf of landlords as part of the University’s head leasing scheme. This scheme allows landlords to let their property directly to the University, offering them a cost effective alternative to private sector lettings agents.

USL will be looking to increase their portfolio of properties and are offering discounted rates to landlords who become accredited under the Guildford Landlord Accreditation Scheme.

Liani Mannifield, USL Manager, said: “Following feedback from the Students’ Union about the difficulties students face in the private sector, there was a clear need for such a service on campus.

“University is often the first time students have been away from home, and also the first time they will need to rent a property. Trying to navigate the complex rental market is difficult and often overwhelming. Our service will help students to make a smooth transition into the private rental sector, ensuring that they live in properly maintained properties and become good and responsible neighbours.”