In the vast majority of cases the answer is yes. Your agreement will include a ‘fair usage’ clause to protect us against unreasonable or excessive utility use. But it is extremely rare for us to need to rely upon this clause.

A bin collection timetable will be included in your tenant guide. Exeter City Council collect general waste (black bin) and recycling (green bin) on alternate weeks. You will usually need to put the appropriate bin out after 6pm the evening prior to morning collection.

The property and the landlord’s contents are insured, but we’re not able to cover your belongings under our policy. We recommend you take out student-specific contents cover for your peace of mind.

We ensure that we are fully compliant with all safety regulations. If the property has a gas boiler etc a copy of the current Gas Safety Certificate will be included in your tenant file. We will usually also include testing certificates for the electrical system, portable appliances etc. The property will have a smoke alarm tested by us before the start of the tenancy and a carbon monoxide alarm as required.

All deposits are held by The Deposit Protection Service (DPS) in their custodial scheme. This means that the money is held in their account not our own. Deductions can’t be made from your deposits without you first confirming your agreement direct to the DPS. We very much hope to be returning your deposits in full at the end of the tenancy.

You will still be able to live in the property in these circumstances, but would usually become liable to pay Council Tax as the student exemption would no longer apply.

We will occasionally need access to make general inspections, meet a contractor or to show over potential tenants for the next academic year. But unless there is an emergency, we will always provide 24 hours prior notice before coming in.

You are liable to pay rent for the duration of the tenancy. We understand that student tenants often vacate before the end of the agreement. In these circumstances, do let us know so we can check that the property is secure.

We will certainly provide a reference to a potential landlord or agent on request. Just pass on our contact details and ask them to contact us directly.