Student Castle York

Question 1

Do I pay a booking fee or deposit?

Answer

For our properties in England they ask for a non-refundable holding deposit (£100-£250 depending on the location) to allocate you a room. Unfortunately, they cannot refund the holding deposit under any circumstances. When you move in your holding deposit will turn into a damage deposit and will be returned at the end of your license [minus any damages]. At our properties in Brighton, Oxford, Lincoln, Cambridge, Durham and Edinburgh you will be required to top up the holding deposit prior to move in to make the deposit up to £250. property protects your deposit using a government-authorised deposit protection scheme; the Deposit Protection Service in England.

Question 2

What happens if I want to cancel my booking?

Answer

Get in touch and tell us straight away. How much they can help will depend on the timing and the circumstances of your cancellation. Licence Agreements are legally binding, so once you have signed and returned your contract you're required to pay your rent. If (under special circumstances only) you need to pull out of the Licence Agreement, they'll help try to find a replacement Licensee for your room - but they can't guarantee that they'll be able to. If a new Licensee is found then they can release you from your licence, but there will be a re-licence fee** If you require a copy of the re-licence terms and conditions then please contact us.

Question 3

Can I leave early and get the remainder of my rent back?

Answer

Unfortunately, you are committed under the licence agreement to pay the full rent, however if you decide you want to leave early please tell the managers of your site asap. They may have a waiting list of people that would like to take over your licence agreement which would then relinquish you from your contract. If you find a new Licensee, they'll let you out of your agreement from the day they move in, and refund you any unused rent that you've paid in advance (minus a £50 admin fee)*. They cannot refund your rent until you have found someone to take over your licence agreement, their booking is confirmed and they have paid the first instalment of their rent.

Question 4

What bills do I need to pay?

Answer

All utility bills (gas, electricity and water), WiFi and contents insurance for your belongings are all included. If you bring your own television or use one that is pre-installed in your room then you will have to buy your own TV licence. See www.tvlicensing.co.uk for further details. If you cease to be a full time student during the occupation of your room then you will become liable for council tax. If the second occupant of a double occupancy room is not a student then they may also be liable for council tax.

Question 5

Can I transfer my booking to a different property?

Answer

It’s possible that you’ll be able to transfer from one property to another before moving in, but this completely depends on what they have available. If they can transfer you, your booking fee will move with your room but you’ll be charged an admin fee of £50 – and unfortunately they can’t guarantee that you’ll get the same sort of room. If you need to request a transfer, contact the site manager at your original property location.

Question 6

Can I change my room?

Answer

If you’d like to change your room once you’ve moved in, they’ll do our best to accommodate you (providing they’re not fully booked). Any moves will incur a £50 admin fee*. If you’ve moved to a cheaper room, any excess rent you’ve already paid will be taken off the next instalment. If you’ve already paid for the whole year, they’ll simply give you a refund of the difference.

Question 7

What happens if my student loan is late and I can’t pay my instalment on time?

Answer

The student loan shouldn't be late, however if there is a problem they will need a letter from the loan company showing amount and dates of payments and four week's advance rent before you move in in September. You can get in touch with the Student Loans Company.

Question 8

How long is the contract?

Answer

All property schemes offer 51 weeks contracts, except for, property Edinburgh offers 51 and 46 weeks contracts, property Lincoln offers 51 and 45 weeks contacts, property Oxford offers 51 and 45 weeks contracts.

Question 9

How much is my rent?

Answer

To find out how much each room costs, go to the location you’re interested in and you’ll find all the details there.

Question 10

What is included in my rent?

Answer

All your utility bills (including super-fast broadband and WiFi) are included, as is contents insurance for your room.

Question 11

What happens if I can’t make my payment on time?

Answer

Come and talk to us - they will always work with you to find the best way for you to pay your rent. If your payment is seven days late and they haven't heard from you, you'll be charged a £30 admin fee.

Question 12

Can I move in earlier or later than my Licence Agreement date if need be?

Answer

This depends if your room is ready, so it’s best to contact the scheme direct. You would need to pay for the extra days beforehand.

Question 13

What's the best way for me to pay for my rent?

Answer

Debit card, credit card or bank transfer are all fine – make your choice when you complete your booking.

Question 14

When do I need to pay?

Answer

For our sites in England, if you have a UK guarantor then you can pay in 3 instalments in September, January and April. The 1st payment will be due 12 days before your licence starts. If the 1st instalment of your Student Loan is paid after this date then they can accept a payment of 4 weeks rent 1 week before you move in, with the balance paid when you receive your loan. For our sites in Scotland, they can align payments with when you receive your Student Loan. Please contact us for further information. For full year contracts payments will be required in 3 instalments in September, January and April.

Question 15

When’s the latest I can book?

Answer

As long as there’s a room available. They keep our site perfectly up to date so you’ll be able to see where our spaces are.

Question 16

Can I book if I'm under 18?

Answer

All residents living at one of our schemes in England are required to be over the age of 17 during the academic year booked, and residents living in our schemes in Scotland to be age 16 or over. Exceptions may be available on a case-by-case basis, and you will need to contact the site to get approval. If in doubt, please contact the respective schemes and the on-site team will be able to advise you.

Question 17

How do I apply for a visa to the UK?

Answer

You can apply for a Student visa to study in the UK if you’re 16 or over and you:, have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor, have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course - the amount will vary depending on your circumstances, can speak, read, write and understand English, have consent from your parents if you’re 16 or 17 - you’ll need evidence of this when you apply.

Question 18

How do I open a bank account?

Answer

The UK has lots of banks, including National Westminster (NatWest), Barclays, RBS, Santander, HSBC and Lloyds. All of these offer special bank accounts for students, which usually include an interest-free overdraft. All high street banks have the same basic range of services – savings accounts, credit cards, overseas cash transfers and so on – but they offer different deals to attract new customers, so shop around to find your favourite. To open a bank account you’ll need to visit a branch of your bank (check to see if your chosen bank has a branch near your property with the appropriate ID. Your passport, driving licence and one or two forms of proof of address (such as a bill or licence) will usually be enough. Bank accounts take a few days to get up and running, so try to open yours before you leave for university – or make sure you have a credit card to keep you going when you arrive.

Question 19

If I want to get a part-time job, where should I look for opportunities?

Answer

You’ll find that your student union often has job adverts, and if you’re looking for shop, bar or restaurant work you can usually spot “Help wanted” signs in the shop windows. Your local Jobcentre will also have opportunities – simply head to the website and search by area.

Question 20

How do I register with a doctor?

Answer

Most surgeries now offer online registration – once you’ve found your local GP, check their website. Check with us too for any recommendations.

Question 21

If I’m an international student can I open a bank account in the UK?

Answer

No problem – you’ll just need the same identification as other students. Take your passport, driving licence and at least one proof of address document such as a bill or licence. If you can get a letter from your bank at home recommending you, that’s even better – but you don’t strictly need this, and you absolutely do need the ID mentioned above.

Question 22

Is bedding included with the room?

Answer

No, but you can purchase bedding and other items from our partner.

Question 23

Are there fridges in the rooms?

Answer

Yes, each studio or flat kitchen has a fridge with freezer compartment. Unfortunately, you cannot bring your own fridge as this would invalidate our insurance.

Question 24

Do I need to bring any furniture?

Answer

All our rooms are all really well equipped with high quality furnishings that provide ample storage and comfort.

Question 25

Are there kitchen facilities in my room?

Answer

Yes, studio rooms and flats have a combination microwave oven, a hob, a sink and a fridge/freezer and plenty of storage for all your pots and pans. Flats have communal kitchen spaces.

Question 26

Do I need to bring my own saucepans, wok, etc?

Answer

If you would like to bring your own kitchen equipment they have lots of storage space. However, you can buy a kitchen pack from us when making your booking which will be in your room upon arrival.

Question 27

Is there a TV in my room? Can I bring one if not?

Answer

Some of our schemes have TV's in the rooms, however should you wish to use it then you will have to purchase a TV licence. Please note, there will be no TV's in the rooms in Bath, Edinburgh, Oxford, Brighton & Durham however you are more than welcome to bring your own to plug in.

Question 28

Is there a common room?

Answer

One of the best things about living with property is the amazing communal space that is open for all residents to enjoy. They've got TV areas, pool tables, private or group study areas that are all perfect for you to enjoy on your own or in a group. They also hold regular social events in the common areas - check your information pack when you arrive for details.

Question 29

Are there bike storage facilities on site?

Answer

Yes, they try to be as eco-friendly as possible so each of our schemes have plenty of secure bike storage space. Please note, E-Bicycles and E-Scooters are not permitted at any of our sites. They also offer FREE bike hire to all our residents across all schemes. Simply hand us your room key in exchange for a bike, helmet and lights.

Question 30

Can I bring my car?

Answer

All our developments are based in fantastic city centre locations, with great transport links nearby. They also try and be as eco-friendly as possible so they don't encourage students to bring cars. Very limited parking is available on a case-by-case basis – if you have a genuine need to keep a car at university, you can contact the management for your chosen property development to discuss your options. All our developments have nearby public car parks, perfect for when friends and family visit. Short term car access is available for dropping off or picking up your belongings.

Question 31

Do you have a gym?

Answer

Yes - they have a gym in most of our sites. They are open 24/7 and completely free to use for all our residents. Unfortunately, our insurance does not cover guests to use the gym.

Question 32

Who should I contact if I have a problem with my internet?

Answer

Their onsite management can do very little in terms of internet problems. Please contact the service provider, Ask4. They have specially trained tech support staff to help sort out your internet as quickly as possible.

Question 33

Where do I wash my clothes?

Answer

All our developments have easy to use laundry rooms with washing and drying machines (operated by Circuit Laundry). You can top up your laundry card from your computer and then use it to pay for your washing, or use your phone through the mobile app. The laundry rooms are open 24 hours and they do not provide detergent.

Question 34

Is there a TV in the common room?

Answer

All our common rooms have flat-screen TVs.

Question 35

Can I Bring my E-Bike or E-Scooter?

Answer

E-Bicycles and E-Scooters are strictly prohibited at all of our sites as they pose a significant fire risk.

Question 36

What happens if there is a breakage or problem with my room?

Answer

You can log all maintenance issues online through the Student Portal. Our onsite maintenance team will respond to the issue as soon as possible.

Question 37

Am I allowed to bring electrical appliances with me?

Answer

For safety reasons, they can’t allow any overseas electrical equipment that doesn’t comply with all relevant British standard. They do not allow portable heaters in any of our rooms.

Question 38

Do I have to supply my own food?

Answer

Yes you do. All our sites have plenty of local supermarkets nearby.

Question 39

Can my friend store their things/belongings/luggage in my room?

Answer

No. Letting someone else store their things in your room is a breach of your Licence Agreement, and it will also invalidate your insurance coverage.

Question 40

Can I have guests to stay?

Answer

Of course. They normally allow a maximum stay of two days per visit for guests but they will need to sign in/out at reception (this is outlined in our guest policy which you will sign when you move in). Guests are not allowed their own key.

Question 41

Is insurance included in my rent?

Answer

Yes, through Endsleigh, they provide complete personal contents insurance to protect you and your belongings. Additional cover is available with Endsleigh at an extra cost.

Question 42

Is your accommodation suitable for mature students?

Answer

Of course! You can enjoy the social aspect of student living, while hanging onto some personal space in one of our self-contained rooms.

Question 43

Are there specific times of day I have to move in?

Answer

So things don’t get too hectic, they will send all students different timeslots prior to move in so you can book your slot, but the reception is always open 24 hours a day.

Question 44

Am I able to have a party in my room if I want one?

Answer

They don't allow parties in your room - this is because they host regular parties and social events in the common areas throughout the year.

Question 45

Whose responsibility is it to clean my room?

Answer

You’ll be in charge of cleaning your own room and helping to clean the communal area of your flat (if applicable). However, they do offer a cleaning service at a cost (details are in your arrival pack and on the Student Portal).

Question 46

How safe is my room?

Answer

Your room is very safe - all door entry is key fobbed and all communal space has CCTV.

Question 47

How safe is the development?

Answer

All our developments have staff on site 24 hours a day, monitoring the entire site to protect you and our buildings.

Question 48

Can I smoke in my room?

Answer

No. As per your Licence Agreement, if you’re caught smoking or tampering with smoke/fire detectors a charge may be applied to your account to cover call out charges of a fire engineer to check or repair the equipment. There are designated smoking areas at each of our developments which you are welcome to use.

Question 49

What is the Student Portal?

Answer

The Student Portal is your online info guide. You can use it to report maintenance issues, book a cleaner, find out if you have post, as well as find useful documents like your Welcome Pack.

Question 50

Is property affiliated with the university in any way?

Answer

They’re not part of a university, but they have excellent working relationships with all the universities whose students they look after.

Question 51

Can I use the common room facilities to run a private club/event/business?

Answer

No, the facilities are only for our residents. It is only polite not to abuse this.

Question 52

What happens if I stop being a full time student?

Answer

You can still live at property until the end of your licence period, however you will become liable for council tax during this time. They can help you try and find somebody to take over your licence should you wish to leave, however this cannot be guaranteed.

Question 53

How do I make a complaint?

Answer

If you're already living with us, the best and quickest way to resolve your issue is to speak to a member of the property team at reception as they are likely to be able to resolve your issue there and then.If you are not living with us, or you are a member of the general public, you can contact property and they will take the details of your complaint and help resolve it. They really want to help resolve your problem quickly so when contacting us by email please provide us with the following information: Your name, Contact details - telephone number/email address/home address so that they can get back to you, Details of your issue or problem, Details of actions you have already taken, or anyone you have already spoken to.

Question 54

What happens next?

Answer

They will investigate your issue thoroughly. They will acknowledge all complaints upon receipt and ask that they be allowed 14 working days in order to fully investigate and respond to any issues raised.If you are not happy with our reply you should let us know and explain why - they can then arrange for a manager to contact you directly to discuss. Finally, if you remain unhappy, they will escalate your complaint to our Head Office to review and issue a full and final response.

Question 55

Do you offer short stays or summer stays?

Answer

Yes, they do offer short stays to students or the public in some of our properties. These short stays could be throughout the year, mostly during the summer period. Please email the schemes to find out more information.

Question 56

Can I choose my flatmates?

Answer

You can request to be in a room close to or within the same flat as your friends, however this is subject to availability. They will do all they can to accommodate your request. Subject to availability you may request to be in a single sex cluster flat for religious or cultural reasons.

Question 57

As a disabled person I have specific requirements for my living needs, can property cater for these?

Answer

They make every effort to ensure that our accommodation is accessible for all. Rather than try to plan generic “accessible” rooms in advance, they prefer to work with individual students to see how they can help. They have a certain amount of flexibility at each of our schemes, which allows us to offer a wide range of possible solutions.

Question 58

What does property do for the environment?

Answer

They’re committed to considering – and, where possible, reducing – our impact on the environment across everything they do. They focus on green methods of construction and waste reduction, and all our developments have the facilities for you to carry on our eco-friendly mission! You can do your bit by recycling as much as possible.

Question 59

Are there recycling facilities on site?

Answer

Of course. Every site is equipped to recycle cardboard, plastics, paper and glass, and recycling tubs can also be found in each room. To recycle other items, check out the options with your scheme manager.

Question 60

Do I need a Guarantor?

Answer

If you want to pay your rent in three instalments, you’ll need a UK-based guarantor (not Edinburgh). This is someone who lives and works in the UK and is willing to sign a contract saying they’ll pay your rent if you fail to do so. We will run a credit check on your guarantor – if they happen to fail we’ll get in touch about what to do next. Your guarantor cannot be another student or a government.

If you do not have a guarantor then you’ll need to pay your rent for the whole Licence Agreement in advance.

Question 61

How do I sign my copy of the Licence Agreement?

Answer

Once you’ve accepted an offer, you’ll be sent a link to Adobe EchoSign’s secure electronic signature system. You need to use this to sign your Licence Agreement electronically, after which you’ll need to upload your documentation. At this point we’ll confirm your booking and you can make your first rental payment. If you have a guarantor they’ll also need to sign and upload their ID/proof of address – (only once you have signed). We perform a credit check on all guarantors.

We accept passports, driving licences and national identification cards as valid proof of ID.

You will receive an electronic copy (signed by us) on your move in day.

Student Castle York

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About Student Castle York

About Student Castle York

Quick Answers About Student Castle York

About Student Castle York

Facilities and Features

Nearby Places for Students

Commute and Transport Access

Property Offers & Benefits

Property Amenities

Common Amenities

Safety and Security

Bills Included

Clifford Deluxe (5 & 6 bed flat)

Clifford Flat (5 & 6 bed flat)

Clifford Accessible (5 & 6 bed flat)

Studio Raven Deluxe

Howard Twin Studio

Studio Lancaster

Studio Raven

Cancellation Policies

Payment Policies

Frequently Asked Questions

Student Castle York

International Bank Account

Airport Pickup & Transfers

Student Health Cover

Room Essentials Kit

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