Unipol Leeds Tabloid November 2016

find your home for next year from 21st January 2017

www.unipol.org.uk/nottingham

The best advice around November 2014

Housing N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 6

RELAX

Kindly sponsored by:

www.unipol.org.uk/LeedsHH

www.facebook.com/ unipolleeds

On launch our website features over

17,000 bed spaces best choice - best properties

@Unipol_Leeds

The art to budgeting See page 5

2

NOVEMBER 2016

Note from the editor W

elcome to Leeds and to Unipol. Unipol is a student housing charity which aims to give you access to the best student accommodation in Leeds.

Our website displays more student bed spaces than any other so there really is no need to rush before Christmas and sign for a property. By waiting until the 21st January 2017 you will give your group the best choice and you can compare thousands of properties from the top providers in the city.

Along with your Students’ Union and institution we want you to have a great house hunting experience and this magazine is packed full of advice to help you in that process. Because we know there is a lot of accommodation available and every year there are plenty of properties not let at the end of house hunting; you have the luxury of time to decide on who you want to live with, where you want to live, the type of property, what you want included and how much you want to pay.

The Unipol Codes Your route to a stress-free property

3

Keeping the Peace Sarah guides you through tried and tested methods to getting on with your housemates

4

Budgeting It’s hard but we can help

5

House Hunting Calendar Plan your house hunting timetable

7

8-9

List of Code landlords Is your landlord accredited? Find out

10

Rate Your Landlord It’s here so get rating!

11

The Student Voice Meet Kelly-Anne

13

Lifestyle

A warm welcome awaits Your friendly housing hub team is mainly made up of students like you and are here to take the stress out of house hunting. We are recognised as the student housing experts in Leeds. So come and have a chat with us for the best advice around.

We have a hub on Woodhouse Lane (opposite Broadcasting Place) and an outlet in LUU.

onika, From left to right: Hannah, J, Norna, Ver ah Nicola, Lydia, Robert and Sar

Market Conditions in Leeds (know the hard facts!)

9%

Contents

Unipol Housing Find out what our tenants say about us!

NEWS

14 - 15

Contact us Unipol - 0113 243 0169 info@unipol.leeds.ac.uk www.unipol.org.uk/leedsHH

T

here is currently a surplus of student accommodation in Leeds. The surplus in 2017 is likely to be approximately 2,500+ bed spaces, even after all the students have found accommodation.

It means that you can take your time when house hunting.

Students who wait until January and compare various properties and areas are more likely to get a better deal and will be choosing from the whole market not just the leftovers. To give you some idea of the housing market, here are a few key statistics:

■ Although rents vary across property type and area, the average cost of student rents in off-street properties in Leeds is £73.34 (excl. bills) ■ The number of students housed directly by the institutions in Leeds is 13,100 ■ There are over 30,000 students housed in the private sector.

of smaller landlords asked for a sign-up fee. The average cost was

92%

73%

of landlords ask for a deposit. The average cost is

of agents asked for a sign-up fee. The average cost was

£71

£272

£65

Average rent of room in shared house in Hyde Park

£73.17

Average rent of an ensuite room in halls

(excl. bills)

£96.43

£124.27 Average rent of a studio in halls

(incl. bills)

£164.67 Average rent of room in shared house in Headingley

Average rent of room in shared house in Woodhouse

£73.56

£70.25

(excl. bills)

(excl. bills)

£91.64

£86.85

(incl. bills)

(incl. bills)

All statistics above are taken from the Unipol website 2016

J's Hot Tip: Choosing the right house mates is one of the most important things you will do. Be honest and be brave - a year is a long time!

This tabloid is produced by Unipol Student Homes. It is for guidance only and is no substitute for the diverse legislation covers. Unipol Student Homes is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, No. 3401440, Registered Charity number No. 1063492. VAT Registration No. 698 8456 49. Unipol Student Homes accepts no liability whatsoever in respect of the advertisements prepared by Unipol Student Homes based on the contents on Accommodation Details Forms and in no circumstances (whether caused by negligence or otherwise) will Unipol Student Homes be liable for any consequential or indirect damage or loss of rent or loss of profit suffered or incurred by you or any third party howsoever caused. © Copyright 2010 Unipol Student Homes

THE CODE

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NOVEMBER 2016

The Unipol Codes: Here for you every step of the way!

Unipol runs several national and local housing accreditation schemes (called the Codes), covering thousands of student properties: Unipol Codes for shared student housing in Leeds, Bradford & Nottingham

National Codes for halls (run by universities and private providers)

THE CODES

Firstly, DON’T PANIC! Let your landlord know about the issue as soon as possible & write to them (email is fine!)

We can give you advice on how best to approach them.

There is a formal complaints procedure & tribunal to deal with serious matters.

The Codes ensure students are provided with a better standard of housing.

The Codes are there every step of the way, from signing up & moving in, offering help during your tenancy to ensuring you are supported when you move out and making sure you get your deposits back in a timely manner.

What if things go wrong?

What are they?

Find out more at: unipol.org.uk/the-code/how-to-complain

Landlords/agents voluntarily join the Unipol Codes and declare that their properties meet our standards.

How are standards checked?

Am I covered?

We inspect at least 1 in 5 of Code Landlords’ properties and a wide sample of student halls.

You can check whether your landlord is accredited on our list on page 10, by contacting Unipol or asking your landlord.

For large developments, check the National Code website at: nationalcode.org

WANT ACCESS TO THE LARGEST DATABASE OF ACCREDITED PROPERTIES IN LEEDS BEFORE ANYONE ELSE? Excited about choosing your next home?

We’ve got your back. The Unipol Code has been designed specifically to help you be sure that you’ll be living in a property that’s safe, secure and well managed. And if you have any difficulties with the property Unipol can help you out.

Join our priority mailing list: www.unipol.org.uk/LeedsHH

4

NOVEMBER 2016

FINANCIAL

Our guide to keeping the peace

How to get along with your housemates

Having worked in tenancy support for over 5 years Sarah has seen and heard the pressure points around communal living. Below she shares the best ways to promote harmony.

Be Sociable Create a social night with just those living in the property; making a meal together is a great way to help bonding.

everyone can see who is and is not doing their share.

speak to your landlord if you’re not sure what applies to you

Do nice things for each otheroffer cups of tea, find out when each other’s birthdays are and bake a cake- small kind gestures will maintain a pleasant atmosphere.

Be Considerate Get familiar with your housemates timetables and be extra careful to be quiet if you know they’re up early the next day. Likewise, let them know if you’re having friends over so they know and expect it to be noisier than usual.

Bills If you pay bills together put each bill in a different person’s name so it’s not down to just one person having to organise the bills.

Cleaning - it’s got to be done Work out a cleaning rota that suits everyone so that each person does their fair share to avoid arguments. Display it clearly with a tick box so

Smoking Find out if anyone smokes and what the house rules are on this. Depending on the type of contract you have signed there will be different policies on this,

Don’t Despair If you have tried to resolve a problem without success speak to your landlord or student advice centre as they may have a professional mediator who can help you and your housemates resolve any problems.

Course: Graphic Design - 4th Year How many properties did you look at before signing? 2

t Studen Comments

What were you looking for in a property?: We wanted somewhere nice and secure What would you do differently if you were looking again?: Having a table is something we really miss so we would look out for one of them in our next house, and we would also look at way more properties as we feel we are paying too much now for what we have.

Simmi Nayyar

Useful Contacts GENERAL HOUSING ADVICE & GUIDANCE Housing Hub on Woodhouse Lane 0113 205 3401 www.unipol.org.uk ■ House hunting advice and information ■ Specialist help for students with dependants ■ Advice on the Unipol Code Unipol Outlet in LUU 0113 380 1247 ■ Contract checking ■ House hunting advice STUDENT UNION ADVICE CENTRES For contract checking and housing advice Leeds University Union Student Advice Centre: 0113 380 1290 Leeds Beckett Students’ Union Advice Service: 0113 812 8400 Leeds Trinity University Students’ Union: 0113 283 7100 Ext: 328 OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Police (non-emergencies) 0113 243 1751 Leeds City Council Environmental Services: 0113 222 4406 Out of hours noise service 0113 395 0143 Yorkshire Mediation Services 0113 242 4110 (9.30am - 4pm Mon-Thurs) Neighbourhood 24hr Voicemail Service 0113 343 1064 Find out who supplies your gas: 0870 608 1524 Find out who supplies your electricity: 0845 330 0889

The key to a happy household is to be open with each other and to talk about things face to face with willingness to compromise.

Mydeposits 0844 980 0290 www.mydeposits.co.uk 0333 321 9401 (8.30am - 5.30pm) The Deposit Protection Service (DPS) 0844 472 7000 www.depositprotection.com 0330 303 0030 (8am - 6pm) The Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) 0300 037 1000 www.tds.gb.com

FINANCIAL

5

NOVEMBER 2016

. .. .. .. f l e S o t e t o N t n a t r o p m i s i g n Budge t i (it doesn't have to be a headache)

F

igure out what your incomings and outgoings are and work out how much needs to be kept aside for rent, bills and essentials - it is useful to over-estimate so you always have more aside in case you do go over the estimated amount.

Once you know how much is left over you can figure out what you can spend.

Try to keep some money in your account for a rainy day.

Be Realistic Check your account often as small amounts can add up quickly. If you do overspend one week don’t panic- simply be more sensible over the next week or two to even out the balance.

There are lots of innovative ways to make your pennies stretch; we’ve collected a few here: 1. www.studentbeans.com for the best student offers around 2. Look at events information on your Students’ Union website for upcoming cheap (or free!) events 3 Always keep your student card to hand and check if you can use it when

purchasing items- many clothes shops, restaurants and cinemas offer discounts for students 4. Most supermarkets will have a ‘yellow sticker’ section with items sold for cheaper than usual, if you use this regularly the small amounts saved will add up

Apps to help you budget We love some of these handy FREE apps to help you budget: 1. On Trees is an app which links to your bank account, but rest assured, it works securely and safely. The app keeps users on budget by handily having all outgoings and income in one place. Create a budget and OnTrees monitors how closely you’re sticking to it. It’s great for tracking what you overspend on – so when money is tight, you’ll know which things to give up.

2. Expensify- this app allows you to scan receipts making it very quick to use and keep updated, it’s also useful if you drive as it can track mileage 3. Goodbudget- this is useful if you share bills with friends or having any shared costs with others

Can I have a pet?

I

t's well known that Britain is a nation of pet lovers. It's not so surprising then that one of the most common questions students ask is "Can I have a pet?" Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in most student accommodations. But don't despair, we’ve identified just some of the ways you can have the next best thing.

Money, money, money (isn't funny when you're in the red) Budgeting is often easier said than done and sometimes despite your best efforts you can quickly run in to debt but don’t panic, help is out there so don’t be afraid or too embarrassed to ask. Below are a few ideas to help get you back on track.

Your Students’ Union Speak to your Student Advice Centre for guidance to ensure you are receiving all the loans you’re entitled too.

Your Accommodation Speak to your landlord and energy providers to see if there are any flexible options to create a payment plan more suited to your finances.

Find a job Increasingly more students have to juggle working parttime with university life. This can be a great way of keeping a regular income coming in to your account and looks great on a CV. Check the job shop at your

university first and call in to your careers service who should also be able to offer suggestions.

International Students If you are an international student visit you can visit www.educationuk.org for further help and advice.

Visit your international student office at university who are there to support you throughout your studies in the UK. Talk to the bank If you urgently need money your bank may allow you to create an overdraft, ensure you read the terms and conditions carefully before you do this.

1) Borrow My Doggy www.borrowmydoggy.com/ Borrow My Doggy is a service that matches dog owners with people who have a little spare time to help with dog walking, dog sitting and other dog related duties.

2) Cat Cafe catcafe.co.uk/ Cat Cafe's are springing up in many cities. One of the nearest to Leeds is in Manchester. At the Cat Cafe, there is unlimited tea and coffee and cats galore. There's even cat yoga and cat cinema...

3) Animal Rescue RSPCA www.rspcaleedsandwakefield.org.uk/default.asp?id=27 Yorkshire Animal Shelter yorkshireanimalshelter.org.uk/ Blue Cross for Pets www.bluecross.org.uk/rehome-pet We've included just a few of the many animal rescues in and around Leeds that you may want to get involved in that will get you closer to animals. A quick search on the www will surely find the one that is right for you.

6

NOVEMBER 2016

ADVICE

The Universities recommend the Unipol Code We asked the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University what they say to their students about house hunting and here’s what they said.

Leeds Beckett University House hunting can be a stressful time and picking the right landlord isn't always easy. Here at Leeds Beckett Accommodation we recommend you take the time to consider all of your options, not to rush into making a decision too soon and to always prioritise a Unipol Code property. We support Unipol’s official start date which this year kicks off on 21 January 2017 and would advise not looking for a new landlord until this date.

However we recommend that if you’re happy with your current landlord then you should consider staying with them. If you’re a Leeds Beckett student and you’ve enjoyed your time in halls then you may be interested to hear that you can return to Leeds Beckett Accommodation beyond your first year of

study. Our University accommodation is no longer just for fresher’s, with many students choosing to return to halls.

Returning to halls can be a hassle-free option as there’s no need to worry about utility bills almost everything is included in your rent, including internet.

Added reassurance is provided by our 24-hour services; maintenance, security and residential support teams are all on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can flat-share with your friends or sign up for a single room. Either way, halls are social places and a great way to meet new friends.

If you need any help or advice on house hunting or returning to Leeds Beckett

Our sponsor for this edition of Housing Host. is new to Leeds but an accredited nationwide provider of student accommodation. Host. will be opening a brand new development in September 2017 here in Leeds: www.host-students.com/locations/leeds/

Accommodation then drop in for a chat at our office in Queen Square House, City Campus.

Hannah Buschini Leeds Beckett Accommodation & Residential Services Manager

www.rateyourlandlord.org.uk/ This allows students to talk about their personal renting experiences and for others to learn from them, becoming savvy, safe and happy renters.

Many students are brand new to the world of private renting, so other people's opinions can be a useful tool.

If you are a returning student and wish to return either on your own or as a group let your accommodation provider know. You may have the option to stay in your current accommodation.

Student Comments How many properties did you look at before signing?

3 What were you looking for in a property?: Basic living amenities

How many properties did you look at before signing?

2

#LoveHalls

University of Leeds Unipol have spoken with the University of Leeds about the start of Househunting 2017 - the advice from the university is to wait!

“Many house hunters are led to believe that they have to rush to sign for a property but we advise all of our students to delay house hunting until after January exams. The University of Leeds fully supports the Unipol start date of Saturday 21st January 2017 and we recommend that you rent a Unipol Code property.”

The University of Leeds works closely with Unipol and the LUU Student Advice Centre to ensure our students have access to help and advice for a successful house hunting experience. Savvy house hunters don’t rush; they make use of all the support mechanisms available to them and consider all the options.

If you are looking for more information about a landlord, there is a new service launched in Leeds in 2016, Rate your Landlord

What would you do differently if you were looking again?: I would look at more houses to get the best deal suitable to me

erate Derek Gondwe/ co-op st grad communications/ po

What would you do differently if you were looking again?: Nothing

What were you looking for in a property?: Spacious, good light, decent sized communal areas

Year / Chris Collinson / 3rd ce Theatre and Performan

Return to halls!

Leeds Beckett University students can return to university accommodation during any year of study Great reasons to live in halls: • No joint tenancy agreement so you’re only responsible for your own rent • No bills to pay – heating, water and internet are all included • Make new friends or live with old ones – it’s up to you

Booking for 2017/18 opens on Wednesday 1 February 2017 www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/accommodation

How many properties did you look at before signing?

4 What were you looking for in a property?: We wanted somewhere with nice communal areas and good sized rooms. We also wanted to be a short walk from uni, preferably in central Hyde Park.

What would you do differently if you were looking again?: We found it hard to look for houses this year as we were all doing placements or a Year Abroad. If we had to do it again, I would have liked to be more ‘on the ball’ and get looking as soon as house hunting started.

c Lottie Pewter / Graphi Design / 4th Year

LOCATION

07

NOVEMBER 2016

Plan your House Hunting with Unipol November

December

January 21st January 2017 Launch of house hunting

EARLY NOVEMBER 2016 House Hunting guide published JANUARY 2017 House Hunting tabloid published

MONDAY 7TH TO THURSDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2016 Door Knocking - House Hunting Campaign at Leeds Beckett Residences TUESDAY 15TH AND 17TH NOVEMBER 2016 12 - 2PM House Hunting experts in the Rose Bowl

MONDAY 30TH JANUARY Housing Fair 10am - 4pm

MONDAY 21ST NOVEMBER & THURSDAY 1ST DECEMBER 2016 12 Noon - 2pm House Hunting advice stand at Headingley Campus Students' Union.

Unipol Outlet at LUU

14TH TO 18TH NOVEMBER 2016 Door Knocking in Halls - We're coming around to your hall to talk to you about house hunting

23RD JANUARY 2017 LUU House Hunting Fair

THURSDAY 8TH DECEMBER 12.30PM - 1.30PM Essential House Hunting tips - talk

THURSDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2016 - 12NOON TO 2PM House Hunting Campaign stand in the café bar

THURSDAY 26TH JANUARY 2017 - 12.00NOON - 2.00PM House Hunting Campaign stand in the café bar

TUESDAY 15TH NOVEMBER - 12.30PM - 1.30PM AND TUESDAY 29TH NOVEMBER - 12PM - 1PM. Essential House Hunting tips - talks

TUESDAY 6TH DECEMBER 2016 - 11.30AM TO 1.30PM house hunting stall in the cafe

t Studmen ts Com en

nal Joy Haggard/ Internatio ad Communication/ Post gr How many houses did you look at before signing to your current house?

5 houses What do you look for in a house/ flat?

Bigger kitchen and parking space and a bath

What would you do differently on your next house hunt or what improvements or features would you like for your next house?

I would start my house hunt on time

WEDNESDAY 1ST FEBRUARY 2017 11.30AM TO 1.30PM house hunting stall in the café

Lewis Girvin/ Sports Thera py/ 2nd year How many houses did you look at before signing to your current house?

5-6 What do you look for in a house/ flat?

Multiple bathrooms, bigger kitchens and no damp or mould

What would you do differently on your next house hunt or what improvements or features would you like for your next house?

Get a review or feedback of landlord, house and services from previous tenants

“Everything about my flat is spot on and all the staff are very friendly. The price is fantastic compared to the other student accommodations. I’ve been really lucky to have lived at Mill Street and it does feel like home.�

82% tenants satisfied with their stay in Unipol housing!

Make

your first choice

www.unipolho 500 properties for you Unipol have

to choose from, ranging from studio flats to selfcontained properties to shared houses to large city centre developments!

e in January!

ousing.org.uk

“Unipol are so reliable and helpful. I have found friends for life through my flat mates and some of my neighbours and love the size and quality of my flat. I am very impressed and would definitely recommend Unipol to any new student”

More About Us ■ We are a unique non-profit making charitable company.

■ All Unipol properties are designed especially for student tenants.

■ Tenants are valued customers and encouraged to provide feedback to ensure we continue to meet the expectations and demands of students ■ Safety, security and location being the high priorities ■ Housing Management Officers ensure you are content in your home ■ A 24hr repair reporting system to ensure repairs are dealt with swiftly

Contact Us: T: 0113 205 3424 E: lettings@unipol.org.uk W: unipol.org.uk Visit Us: 155/157 Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 3ED

10

NOVEMBER 2015

NOVEMBER 2016

THE CODE

Unipol Codes - is your landlord on the list?

All of the landlords, agents and providers on this list are accredited with Unipol, either as part of the Unipol Code for Shared Houses in Leeds, or under the terms of the National Code.

Details of managing agents who have 100% of their managed properties accredited, and of members of the Unipol Code Supporters’ Scheme (who are Agents are working towards having 100% of their managed properties accredited) are given below the list of

individual landlords. National Code Providers are also in a separate section at the end of the list.

Names in gold indicate a Unipol Golden Owner: landlords who have been a member of the Unipol Code for at least four consecutive years and haven’t had a sustained complaint being brought against them. Landlords who have an asterisk* after their name are members of the Safer Leeds Safer Homes Scheme.

Walters* n Gurdip DHALIWAL* n DHM PROPERTIES - Howard Midgley* n Mrs J DILLON n DIRECT LETS - Marie Shanahan* n Jon DOUGLAS n Bob DOUGLASS* n Irene DWYER*

Individual Members of the Unipol Code for Leeds A n AAA LETS - Triple A Lets: A. Jobling, M. Parascandolo, M.A. Parascandolo n A.D. PROPERTIES - Andrew Dodds* n A&J CAVILL PROPERTIES - Andrew & Jennifer Cavill n A&M HOMES - Ann Reeve & Margaret Welborn n ABARIS PROPERTIES - Eamonn Ruane n ABBEY HOMEZ - Tesh Parmar* n N&W AHMED PROPS - Nissar Ahmed n AIREDALE PROPERTIES - Mohammed Sagher & Najma Ahktar n Roderic AITKENS* n Naeem AKHTAR n Abdulaziz ALARIFI n Robert ALLCROFT* n ANDORIA PROPERTIES - Androula Paschali* n ASHVILLE ESTATES - Richard Watson n Abdul AZIZ B n Martin BACZKOWSKI n David & Margaret BAIRSTOW* n David BARNES* n BAXTER PROPERTIES - Martin Baxter* n Prem BEEHARRY n Mark BELLAMY* n Alex BLAKEBOROUGH* n Anne BLAKEBOROUGH* n Jenny BOUZIDA* n BRADLEY PROPERTIES - Sarah Houseman* n BRAYSHAW PROPERTIES - Alison Brayshaw* n BRIDGECOURT PROPERTIES Mohammed Ismail* n John BYRNE C n C. A. PROPERTIES - Christopher Richardson* n Jayne CAMPBELL* n CARR-HALL PROPERTIES - Rob Carr* n Paul CARVIN* n Richard CAVE* n CAVILL PROPERTIES - David & Christine Cavill n CENTRAL PROPERTIES (LEEDS)* n Stephen CHUNG* n Anthony CHUTER* n Michael CLEARY* n Danny COHEN* n James & Melissa CONNOLLY* n Garry COOPER* n Jennifer CRAVEN n CROFT PROPERTIES Gavin Whitehead* n CROWTHER PROPERTIES - Keith Crowther* n Catherine CUDLIP* D n John & Christine DAVIES* n Moira DECTER* n Chris DENHAM* n Richard & Val DEW* n D&H STUDENT LETTINGS - John Darren

E n E&D PROPERTIES - Jack Eddowes* n Kay ENGLAND* n EXPRESS-LETS - Hitesh Pattani F n FAB STUDENT HOMES - Mohammed Ihklaq n FALHAM PROPERTIES - John Falkingham* n FARRER PROPERTIES - Colin Farrer* n Terry McFEELY n FLETCHER PROPERTIES - Paul Fletcher* n N FLETCHER PROPERTIES - Nigel Fletcher* n FOSTER PROPERTIES (LEEDS) LTD Richard Foster n Tracy FOSTER* n Sue FRANKS G n GARTH LONDON PROPERTIES - Garth London* n Bernard GAY* n Jason GOLDING n Kim GRADY* n Alan & Susan GRAY H n Mrs P. HALLIDAY* n Neil HARDAKER n HARO INVESTMENTS LTD - Stephen Bradley* n Adrian HARRIS* n Avril HARRIS* n HAWTHORN PROPERTIES - Penny Whittington* n Scott & KImberley HAYES* n HDP PROPERTY - Hemant Parmar* n Robin HEAP n Jane HESKETH* n Eileen HIGGINS* n HOMES IN LEEDS - Gurnam Singh* n Richard HOPKINSON n David HOWE n HS Properties - Shahrazz Pinnu n Max HUME n Jean HUSSAIN* I n INFINITUS LETTINGS - Steve Wright* n Kamran IQBAL* n David IRVING* J n Martin JACKSON* n R JAMES TRADE - Rich James* n David JIANG* n Jesse JOHNSON n Neil JOSEPH* K n Leila KARA* n G.J. KAYE PROPERTIES - Gaydor Kaye* n KENMARE PROPERTIES - Andrew Hudson* n KENSINGTON PROPERTY (UK) LTD Geoffrey Bell n KETTLEWELL PROPERTY SERVICES Stephen Kettlewell* n Yasir KHAN* n Christine KING*

n Andrew KNOWLES n Pauline KNOWLES L n LAKESCENE ASSOCIATES LTD - Jon & Janet Blythe* n LEODIS HOUSES - Brian Hamburg n LETSRENTLS6 - Stephen Ongley* n LINGARD BELL LTD - Steve Rowley* n LISTER PROPERTIES - John Lister* n LITTLE BLACK DOOR PROPERTIES Sapphire Rostron n Tom LITTLEFIELD* n Christine LIVERSIDGE* n Trevor LOVE n LS6.CO.UK - Jackie Prescott* n LS6 RENTALS - Fran McLoughlin* n H LYSTER M n Richard MACK n Simon MADDISON* n Bobby MAHERU* n Peter & Paul MAINPRICE n Keith & Sarah MALONE* n Penny MARES* n Hazel MASON* n Linda MASSARELLA n P.J. MATTHEWS - Aileen Maudson* n Melanie MAY* n George McCLURE* n McDONALD PROPERTIES n Julian MEEK* n MELVILLE PLACE - Chris Ross* n MILLENIUM HOUSE ENTERPRISES - Mark Jenkinson* n Vasant MISTRY* n MJ PROPERTIES - Tasleem Akhtar* n M&J ESTATES - Michael Wisniewski* n Michael McKAY* n Sally McKEE* n Ronald McKENNA n M&M PROPERTIES - Paul McDonald n Zabir MOHAMMED* n Chris & Steven MOORE n MP PROPERTIES - Mahesh Parmar* n Mareed MUGHAL n Emily MUIRHEAD* N n Graham NICHOLS* n Pamela NICHOLLS* n NORDIC PROPERTIES - Mike Emery* n Jill NORTHWOOD n NORWOOD PROPERTIES - Michelle Pawson O n Katherine O'CARROLL* n Charles O'DONNELL* n OLIVIA PROPERTIES - John Midgley* P n Richard PALMER* n Rob PANESAR n Satnam PANESAR n Raffella PARASCANDOLO n PARK CREST PROPERTIES - Richard Fozard* n Kantilal PATEL* n John & Karen PETERMAN* n PICKARD PROPERTIES - Miles Pickard* n PJS HOMES - Peter KNowlton* n Ruth POTTER* n Neil & Monica POUNDALL* n Peter & Maureen POWELL* n PRESTIGE PROPERTIES LEEDS - Matloob Hussain* n P.T. PROPERTIES - Paul Martin* n PULLEN & HARTLEY - Keith Pullen

R n Lynda RADDINGS* n Keith RAE n RDF PROPERTIES - Mark Radford n Susan READ* n Kathleen REDDINGTON* n REDMAN PROPERTIES - Marilyn Redman* n R.H. INVESTMENT - Ray Huq n RMC PROPERTIES - Lisa Donnison n RMP PROPERTIES - Rachel Stanford n Paul ROLLASON* n James ROSENBERG n Leanne & Tracy ROYLE* n Wayne RUSSEL* n RST - Ranjit Singh Taak* S n Joanna SCHMIDT n Gregory SCOTT n SHARED RENTALS - Danielle Sharp* n Steven SHARP* n P.J. SHEARD PROPERTIES - Rebecca Manley* n Mark SHEPHERD* n Ben SHEPLEY* n Jeremy SHIRES* n SILVERSPRING PROPERTY - James Saul* n Catherine SKOWRONSKI n Graham SLATER n Barbara SLAUGHTER n Ronald SLINGER* n SM PROPERTIES - Sodur Miah n David SMEE* n Alan & Maureen SMITH* n SOLANKI HOMES - Jashvantrai Solanki* n SPENCER PROPERTIES (UK) LTD - Yasir Fariq* n S.S. PROPERTIES - Shyam Sunder Tah* n Mary STADDON* n Leonora STAPLETON n STUDENT CRIBS n SUE MICHAELS LEEDS STUDENT HOMES* n Pamela SUTER* n Peter SZAMOCKI* T n Alan & Fran TAIT* n J&E TALLER PROPERTY - Janos Taller* n Marc TALLIS* n TARGET PROPERTIES - Nadeem Sheikh n Stuart TATE n Christopher & Jane TAYLOR* n George & Gill TEE* n Lidia THOMPSON* n TRINITY HOMES - Sanjay Chawla* n TRUST PROPERTIES - Jagdish Singh n Roy TUCKER* n John TUDOR n John & Carol TUNSTALL*

Managing Agents with 100% of managed properties accredited 100% accredited properties refers to properties that are managed by the agent. Always check with the agent whether your particular property is accredited. n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Abode Rentals Apex Homes Archways Properties* Ashfield Properties (Leeds)* Castlehill Estate Agents DEU Estates* Haus Properties Headingley Property Services* Landmark Homes LS Lettings Let-Leeds Oasis Properties* Parklane Properties Springwell Easylet Leeds Red Door Lets* RentInc* Sugarhouse Properties* V1sion Properties*

Members of the Unipol Code Supporters’ Scheme Percentage of accredited properties refers to properties that are managed by the agent. Always check with the agent whether your particular property is accredited.

75-99% of managed properties accredited

n Octopus Residential 50-74% of managed properties accredited

n CityRed n Danhamz Ltd n Stonehouse Properties

U n UMPIREVIEW LTD - Lawrence Gould n UNIPOL STUDENT HOMES n URBANE LIVING - Yogesh Solanki V n VARSITY 44 - Fouad Hanna* W n Kevin WAKEFIELD* n WALTERS PROPERTIES - Jimmy Walters n Norma WARBURTON n WARNER PROPERTIES - Alexander Warner* n Helena WATKINS* n Cain WEBER* n Simon WEBSTER* n Leila n WILLIAMS* n Keith WILLIS* n Kathryn WILSON* n David WOODFORD* n Linda WOODWARK* n Carolyn WOOLF-LEWIS* n WRIGHT PROPERTY - Jonathan Wright* n Elli WRIGHT Y n Zhaokang YANG* n Mohammed YOUNIS* n YOUR PROPERTY ZONE - Ruth Grierson* Z n Anthony ZAMMIT*

National Code Providers in Leeds n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Campus Living Villages UK Carr Mills (D & B PML) Collegiate AC Ltd Downing Developments Fresh Student Living Host Juniperloch Kexgill Leeds Beckett University Liberty Living Mansion Property Management Mohammed Aslam Niche Homes Ltd Parklane Properties Priestley and Co. Primo Property Management Unipol Student Homes UNITE University of Leeds Vero Group YPP (Yorkshire Prosperity)

Names in italics are members of the National Code for Educational Establishments.

LOCATION

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NOVEMBER 2016

Rate Your Landlord HOW ARE STUDENTS RATING THEIR LANDLORDS? B

efore you start house hunting for your next property make sure you check out the Rate Your Landlord website as part of your preparation.

Holding more than 1,500 reviews the website lets students anonymously* leave feedback about their renting experiences. It’s a bit like TripAdvisor - yout submit a review about your renting experience, the review is moderated by our team, the landlord gets a right of reply, and the review is posted on the site. The reviews rate landlords and agents on things like customer service, efficiency of repairs, safety and security, deposit handling and more. This

means you can check out what students have said about their property and their landlord, and gather the information you need when house hunting.

We want students to give fair and balanced views and opinions, backed up with the facts. If you’ve had a brilliant time then you need to tell other students who you think is great.

Whatever you want to say about your landlord, make sure you’re fair and accurate.

Rate Your Landlord is here for every student from every university and college in Leeds *We keep a record of your name, email address and other details in case we need to get in touch. Published reviews will not display this information.

HOW DO THE RATINGS ?

STACK UP

L

ooking at the reviews posted so far every question delivered an above average score overall, suggesting the majority of Leeds students are happy in their accommodation.

Particular highlights include: ■ the question: The signing and letting process was good?

741 ratings of 5 (an average of 4.06), indicating that overall students feel comfortable throughout the viewing and signing process ■ the question: The property is safe and secure? 683 ratings of 5 (an average of 3.61), indicating that most students feel secure in their homes and the areas they live in ■ the statement: My house feels like a home 605 ratings of 5 (an average of 3.69), indicating that most students feel at home in their rented accommodation The most polarizing results are seen when students are asked to rate their landlord on the efficiency of repairs and customer service. The scores demonstrate that when the service is perceived to fall short of expectations, it is likely to cause the most frustration for tenants. These two aspects of management appear to be

closely linked i.e. a review that scores lower on efficiency of repairs was also more likely to score lower on customer service too.

Efficiency of repairs returned 619 ratings of 5 and 299 ratings of 1, with the ratings in between evenly spread. The average score was 3.46.

Customer service returned scores of 683 ratings of 5 and 253 ratings of 1. The average

score was 3.61.

It is great to see the reviews on the site painting a positive picture for tenants and for landlords, with the majority of respondents reporting above average levels of satisfaction with key aspects of their accommodation. It also gives clear indications of areas for improvement, particularly around repairs and customer service for some providers.

12

NOVEMBER 2016

ENVIRONMENT

Why did the Fungi leave the party?

There wasn’t mushroom T

he last thing you want in your new home is large dark patches of damp black mould…..

9/10 times, this mould is caused by warm moist air meeting a cold surface, similar to when you are in a car and it gets steamed up.

Usually it occurs in winter because the building is cold and because windows are closed and the damp air cannot escape.

OKAAAY - what shall we do about it then??

Stop damp air spreading to other rooms from kitchens and bathrooms or from where clothes are drying by keeping doors closed.

■ Open windows a little to provide some ventilation so that the moist air can escape ■ Put pan lids on when cooking ■ Use the heating reasonably and regularly

■ Make sure the extractor fans provided work and are used ■ Any sign of mould growth is an indication you need to improve the heating or ventilation ■ Get your marigolds to the ready and use a mild detergent and damp cloth to wipe away mould spores on windows and walls

Not enough for a pint, never mind heating Simple steps can be taken to improve energy efficiency in your accommodation without having to cost the earth

■ Use your central heating timer or thermostat to turn the heating on and off regularly.

■ Keep the property constantly warmed during cold months. It is cheaper to heat regularly rather than letting the property get very cold ■ Avoid drying clothes on radiators ■ Don’t put furniture in front of the radiators as it will absorb a lot of the heat.

■ Close curtains at dusk during the winter, as this will help stop heat escaping through the windows

If you have tried the tips above and are still experiencing problems or are concerned about the problem being more than condensation please speak to your accommodation provider and make them aware of the situation.

WINTER IS COMING You’ve weathered your first term of the year, and you’re starting to think of holidays and winter adventures, but don’t let things cool off with your student home. Here’s a few tips to keep things cosy:

Don’t get left in the cold n

n

n

Make sure you know how your heating works – your landlord should have provided you with clear instructions. Ask them if not Check that your heating works well: do all the radiators heat up fully? Are they cold at the top or the bottom? If you have any concerns, speak to your landlord.

Remember that keeping your house warm will help you avoid condensation and damp

‘twas the night before Christmas Before you and your housemates head off for the holidays, make sure your house is safe and sound. n

n

n

Make sure you leave it secure – have a look at the tips from the Police on page 13 Let your landlord know if your house is going to be empty for some time. They should always let you know if they wish to access the property, but it is good time for landlords to carry out maintenance. It is also helpful for your landlord to know that there is no-one there to alert them to possible damage in case of bad weather.

If you have macerator toilets it’s a good idea to flush them 4 to 5 times before leaving your house for a while. This clears any waste through the workings and helps prevent blockages once you’re back

The Condensation Conversation Condensation is caused when warm moist air meets cold surfaces, usually walls and windows. The best way to avoid to condensation and the resulting black mould is to ventilate well and not let your house get cold.

Use the tips above and keep condensation under control

What if something does go wrong?

Unipol can help! Have a look on our website at our Guide to Making A Good Complaint , which talks you through raising a complaint with your landlord, explains whether you can raise a complaint with us, and gives advice on where to find guidance and support. www.unipol.org.uk/the-code/how-to-complain Or drop in to see us at our Housing Hub or LUU Outlet

COMMUNITY

13

NOVEMBER 2016

Safe and Sound…?

We asked PC Matthew Guy and PC Mark Fox for their tips on keeping safe.

Headlines ■ Student areas (Hyde park, Woodhouse and Headingley) have higher levels of “insecure entry” burglaries than the rest of Leeds - don’t provide burglars with easy opportunities!

■ Student areas also experience a higher level of repeat burglaries (12% compared to 4% in the rest of Leeds) - be vigilant, know your neighbourhood and report anything suspicious.

Minimise Your Risk ■ Always lock doors and windows when leaving a room/ the property.

■ Don’t leave valuable items on display.

■ Ensure important documents are safely hidden.

■ Always lock your bike with a silver standard D lock attached to an immovable object.

eckett leedstsb’ un ion studen

Your voice at Leeds Beckett Students' Union Introducing Kelly-Anne…….

■ If you are away for a long time use radio and light timers and ask the Post Office to hold your mail.

■ If you have a burglar alarm make sure it is working and use it.

■ You should register your electrical items on www.immobolise.com. This is a free service and allows police to track down your item if it has been stolen.

■ If you’re going out with housemates do not leave at the same time as this is a sure sign that you’re leaving the house unoccupied.

■ Thefts are common at house parties so don’t advertise your party on social networking sites and make sure you and your housemates know exactly who is there.

Important Contacts; Always call 999 in an emergency

Hi I’m Kelly-Anne. I am the vice president (welfare) at Leeds Beckett students’ union. I look after Leeds Beckett students general wellbeing; including your safety, housing, sexual and mental health.

Whilst giving a voice to students in the university, in the wider community and on a national level. My three main objectives for the year is focusing on post mental health and organising a conference early next year, creating and sustaining strong relationships with the wider community and council. Finally, to raise awareness around does and don’t to do with housing and create an affordable housing policy for our students. Here is some information, which I think will help you, around the topic of housing.

Tip 1: When in doubt Contact the Advice team at the students union. The Advice team offer a friendly, confidential service which can help you in the following areas; House hunting, Moving in, Moving out, Disrepairs and information on Deposits. Ps this is on-going thought out the year. www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/advice"

Tip 2: Rate Your Landlord Rate Your Landlord is simple. It works just like TripAdvisor. Rate Your Landlord lets students rate and review their properties on lots of different areas.

Definitely check this out before you choose where you want to live but also rate on your previous houses to help other students when house hunting! @rateyourlandlord.org.uk/ Tip 3: Do your research After reviewing and rating your landlord, it’s super fun looking

around lots of different houses.

Before you do this I would recommend checking if they are Unipol accredited. This means that they are under a code which helps to maintain better standards of student housing.

Any other questions please don’t hesitate to ask.

Kelly-anne.watson@ leedsbeckett.ac.uk 0113 81 21852 If you see me around please say Hello!

Course: 2nd Year - Digital Media How many properties did you look at before signing?

5-6

t Studen C om m e n ts

What were you looking for in a property?: Cleanliness - before we looked at the Unipol house we live in now, all the properties we saw had been really grotty.

What would you do differently if you were looking again?: I would go to Unipol straight away instead of waiting around for 4 or 5 days like we did this year!

Luke Brian

Contact your local neighbourhood policing team for more information about crime and support in your area www.westyorkshire.police.uk/npt PC 6210 Matthew Guy Higher Education Police Officer for the University of Leeds West Yorkshire Police Email: m.guy@leeds.ac.uk Follow University of Leeds Police Liaison Officer @PCMattGuy on twitter for useful tips on preventing crime PC Mark Fox Responsibility for Leeds Beckett University students email: mark.fox@westyorkshire.pnn.police.uk

14

NOVEMBER 2016

LIFESTYLE

Enjoy Leeds in the run up to Christmas Have things gone a little quiet now that freshers is finally over? Student loan starting to dwindle? Recovered from freshers flu and now can’t decide what to do? Well there are plenty of things going on in Leeds to keep you busy before Christmas (and just after).

Leeds international Film Festival N

mood Getting in the

o need for Netflix, Leeds International Film Festival gives us a welcome opportunity to have a film binge (and discover many venues throughout Leeds in doing so). Taking place 3rd - 11th November, just under 200 films are being screened all over Leeds. Individual tickets are generally priced between £8 - 10, but there is the opportunity to buy passes and receive discounts as well as some screenings being completely free - result! (It is still recommended you reserve your spot for free showings to guarantee your spot).

Yorkshire magical lantern festival Promising to host some of the most beautiful lantern installations outside of China, this event really does sound quite magical.

Immerse yourself in light and illumination with further activities including iceskating, a funfair, Santa’s grotto and lots of food and beverage vendors. The event takes place at Roundhay Park, costs £10 and begins 25th November (through to 2nd January) - sure to get you in the mood for Christmas!

Gigs If you keen to get your jig on, then check out some gigs happening in Leeds in the coming months. There’s plenty to choose from but we’ve picked some of our favourites…

Courteeners - First Direct Arena, 25/11/16 (Tickets start at £25)Celebrating their fifth album, Courteeners are taking on the First Direct for their biggest UK tour to date.

Jack Garratt - O2 Academy, 09/11/16 (Tickets start at £20)A worthy winner of the BRIT Awards Critics’ Choice Award, Jack will be coming to Leeds following the release of his debut album, Phase.

Weetwood Mac - Brudenell Social Club, 08/12/16 (Tickets £10)It might not be the real deal, and Stevie Nicks is definitely a no show, but we all love a sing-a-long and we know ‘Go Your Own Way’ will end with smiles all round.

Kate Nash - Stylus LUU, 08/02/2017 (Tickets 15.25)We’re not at all mad about Kate rescheduling her Sold Out October tour as now, taking place in February, she’s added Leeds to her bill!

Speaking of Christmas…

The Christmas light switch on Happening on 10th November at Victoria Gardens, the Christmas Light Switch on is sure to get the festive juices flowing.

Fireworks and comedy are already on the bill with special guests to be announced soon. No tickets are required, so this event is perfect for those of us who aren’t so organised or who fancy a spontaneous trip out!

Chistkindlemart - German Christmas market The next best thing to Cologne itself! Get your scarves and hats on and venture down to Millennium Square for the annual German Christmas Market, sure to make you feel full of

festive delight (with the possible addition of mulled wine and frankfurters).

There are over 40 wooden chalets so definitely something for everybody to enjoy. The market takes place from 11/11/2016 to 18/11/2016 and, most importantly, is free entry!

Sneaky Experience Leeds Hidden Christmas Market If one Christmas market wasn’t enough then get yourself down to Leeds Hidden Christmas Market making its debut this December. Taking place in picturesque Kirkstall Abbey, Sneaky Experience promises a secret kingdom with Bratwurst and baubles, fizz and festivities.

Expect live performances, food and gift stalls and a well-stocked bar! The event is ticketed and selling fast so be sure to grab yours here: www.wegottickets.com/link/ from/201612/sneakyexperie nce

15

NOVEMBER 2015 2016 LIFESTYLE NOVEMBER

LIFESTYLE

Y A T S O T W HO N E H W E P A IN SH M Y G E H T E YOU HAT Meanwood Valley Trail

Running Apps

Long the secret of locals, the Meanwood Valley Trail is a 7 mile walk that begins on Woodhouse Moor (Hyde Park) and winds its way through Headingley, Meanwood and Adel. The route takes you through woodlands and picturesque meadows, alongside brooks, ponds, allotments and terraced gardens and parks. The route is so unbelievably varied and beautiful that you will forget you are practically in the centre of one of the biggest cities in the country. The first half is well signposted, but after that you may need to call upon your navigational skills - routes can be found easily online.

DISCOVER at: www.meanwoodvalleypartnership.co.uk/wha t-weve-done/meanwood-valley-trail

A lot of people think that running is simply not for them, based on negative experiences slogging away on a treadmill. The reality of running outside is so different. It’s a chance to really explore where you live, to get out into nature, and to set yourself up for the start of the day. The Couch to 5k App is fantastic for ‘non-runners’, as it will help you pace yourself by telling you when you are running too fast or too slow.

Once you’ve made it up to 5K you are ready to join the park run held on Woodhouse Moor (known to you and me as Hyde Park) and takes place weekly on a Saturday morning at 9am. You will be part of a 5km timed run that has become a worldwide phenomenon. They are open to everyone, free, and are safe and easy to take part in.

SIGN UP at: www.parkrun.org.uk/woodhousemoor/

Team Sports and societies Sportswear shops One of the great things about university is the availability of team sports for all levels.

If you don’t fancy joining the society for the sport you are interested in, you will often find that different departments play popular sports such as netball and football between them in a more ‘social’ league. Rest assured, there will be no ‘Bleep Test’, no gruelling sprints or grumpy PE teacher, just a great opportunity to have a run about and meet some new people.

Sportswear shops such as Adidas and Sweaty Betty organise heaps of fitness clubs throughout the week, often offering incentives, such as a free bag when you have attended 5 times. These are normally free and range from running to Zumba.

Perfect if you can’t afford the gym but also really don’t want to run round Hyde Park by yourself in the dark. They are also a fab way of new meeting people with weekly session’s groups varying in age and ability.

PokemonGo PokemonGo has changed the lives of people all over the world and not just hard-core gamers. As you may know, to progress in this game you have got to walk. Walk to points of interest, walk to hatch your eggs, walk your buddy Pokemon and also walk on your hunt for new Pokemon. Thousands of people claim it has revolutionised their life for the better, one person said “I exercised for the first time in two years, walked two miles, pulled a muscle and met more people in the past month then I have ever met in five years”. So DOWNLOAD the app and find a Pikachu.

QUALITY MARK INTERNATIONAL ACCOMMODATION

2016

BEST

VALUE FOR MONEY