MSH Guide

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Manchester Student Homes offers a FREE housing service to students. We are jointly managed by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, and we also work in partnership with The University of Salford and UCEN. We accredit landlords and private halls of residence who meet our required standards. us: We promoteFollow quality accommodation and operate an advice service to students who choose to live off-campus.

FIND YOUR HOME Manchester Student Homes accredits landlords and private halls of residence. We have over 20,000 bed spaces across Manchester.

All of our providers have agreed to abide by our Code of Standards and work with us to resolve any issues or problems that might occur throughout your tenancy.

You can search for a property by going to: www.manchesterstudenthomes.com

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ACCREDITED ACCOMMODATION All of our landlords and private halls have to provide us with an up-todate Gas Safety Certificate, Electrical Certificate, Energy Performance Certificate and any relevant licences.

Our standards for accredited accommodation are above those recommended in the private rented sector and we have set specific property standards in regards to space, safety and security. We inspect at least 10% of registered properties each year.

We investigate any cases where a breach of the Code has been made and we take appropriate action to ensure that only the best landlords remain accredited.

You can view the Codes here: www.manchesterstudenthomes. com/pages/our%20code%20of%20 standards We offer students a complaint procedure to address their grievances and work with accommodation providers to ensure any issues are resolved.

We offer students mediation as a way to resolve any issues between you and your landlord.

We have a number of additional standards that providers can apply for if they meet the criteria.

The A PLUS Standard Providers that bear this logo have demonstrated that they go above and beyond for students in terms of the management service they offer. It is Follow our highest level ofus:accreditation. These providers agree to provide access when charging a retainer and they do 10 hours of volunteering a year.

The International Friendly Standard Providers that display this logo offer an improved service to international students.

They have agreed to the following: • Not to demand a UK based guarantor Follow us: • Not to demand full rent up front • To offer clear and transparent booking procedures • To offer a clear and transparent contract They have also agreed to offer orientation to the area and provide additional opportunities for international students.

More information for international students can be found at: www.manchesterstudenthomes.com/ local

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We also offer housing information, advice and guidance even if your landlord is not accredited.

Our service is: • Free • Impartial • Confidential We will: • Respond to you within 2 working days • Ensure our staff is trained and knowledgeable • Signpost to other services where appropriate

You can also use our service for Contract Checking: Get your contract checked before signing and ensure you do not sign into an unfair agreement.

Housing Advice: We can advise you on a range of housing issues such as: • Deposits • Repairs and maintenance • Additional charges • Contractual issues • Any other issues

Advocacy and Support: If things become too difficult and you cannot resolve your issue, we can offer additional support and have a dedicated Housing Caseworker to assist you through any problems or emergencies.

Partnerships: We work closely with the Students’ Unions, Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Police, and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, as well as the International Society to ensure student safety and security when living in Manchester.

Referrals: We are also able to offer access to other advice services if required.

How to Contact Us manchesterstudenthomes@ manchester.ac.uk 0161 275 7680 MSH Pod University of Manchester’s Students’ Union Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PR www.manchesterstudenthomes.com Follow us: