Staff in the Students' Union can help you find a place to live during your course at Glasgow Metropolitan College. They have an accommodation leaflet which covers halls of residence, as well as privately-rented flats and bedsits. The College does not have its own halls of residence, but there are places available in other university or college halls as well as in privately-owned halls.
When looking for a property, check that it meets the following recommended standards before signing a tenancy contract:
External Doors
- Solid wood with a five lever mortice lock
- Spy hole viewer or door chain
Windows
- Key operated locks on all windows
- Easily operated locks to make an emergency exit
- DO NOT move in if there are bars on any window
Lighting
- Make sure all lighting around the property clearly lights the way
Fire
- Think! How do you get out?
- Is there a fire blanket, fire extinguisher or fire door?
- YOU MUST HAVE A SMOKE DETECTOR
Gas
- Get a CORGI registered Gas Safety Certificate
Finally...If you can get into your property without your keys, then anyone else can!
Safer Student Website
The website: http://www.saferstudent.org.uk/ is designed to help you maximise your time in Glasgow, but also to raise awareness in relation to personal safety issues and general methods of crime prevention.
Lease and Inventory
Once you have found a suitable place, it is good practice to ask for a written copy of the lease. You should initial each page of the lease, inventory or anything else your landlord/lady asks you to sign. If an inventory is not supplied, draw one up for yourself and send a copy to your landlord/lady for their agreement. If an inventory is supplied, check it out before signing the agreement. Keep copies of all correspondence.
Deposits
Deposits should be kept aside for you. Landlords/ladies should not use deposit money to cover late rent. Fair wear and tear cannot be deducted from deposits. All repairs outstanding should be reported to the landlord/lady in writing.
Problems
If the landlord/lady is not carrying out repairs, the rent is increased or you are threatened unfairly with eviction, seek advice from your local housing office, Citizens Advice Bureau or NUS Scotland.
Further information on your rights and obligations as a tenant can be found in the leaflet “A Student Guide to Housing Rights”, copies of which are in the Student’s Association.
Insurance
It is always wise to have insurance to cover your personal possessions. You may be covered by your parents’ insurance for house contents if you are in “term time only” accommodation such as halls of residence. Some insurance companies offer discounts to students. Ask for quotes before you choose.