Question 1

How do I apply for a room for next September?

Accepted Answer

Complete the Student House Registration Form: All students must fill out our Student House Registration Form. This helps us understand your requirements better and ensures a smooth application process. You can submit a registration form using our online form.

Question 2

How will I sign my tenancy agreement?

Accepted Answer

At Swindon Rentals, we've streamlined the tenancy agreement process to make it as convenient as possible for our tenants. Here's how you'll sign your tenancy agreement:

A secure digital tenancy agreement will be generated online, accessible via both mobile phones and PCs. You'll receive the agreement via secure email, along with an online digital signing facility. This streamlined process not only speeds up the signing process but also adds convenience for you.

By utilising secure digital signing, we aim to provide a seamless and efficient experience for our tenants. Should you have any questions or need assistance with the signing process, our team is here to help.

At Swindon Rentals, we're committed to making your tenancy experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to reach out to us.

Question 3

Are all bills included?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  All utility bills, gas, electric, water, tv licence, Wifi - broadband, council tax (if applicable). The houses are fully managed with rooms from £600 per month.

Question 4

Have the houses been inspected before?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the houses have been inspected by Swindon Borough Council Housing Department and Principles of the Wilkes Academy.

Question 5

Are the rooms furnished?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the property is furnished to provide convenience and comfort for our tenants. Each bedroom is refreshed with a fresh coat of paint for new tenants and comes equipped with essential furniture, including a double bed with a mattress protector, a set of drawers, and a practical hanging rail/wardrobe for clothing storage.

In addition, communal social areas feature sofas and tables for eating and studying, fostering a comfortable and collaborative living environment. The communal kitchen is well-equipped with a fridge freezer and oven, along with the practicality of a washing machine and many have the added convenience of a tumble dryer. These amenities ensure that students have the essential basics for their daily living needs.

Furthermore, the furnished property allows students the freedom to personalise their space with their own items, adding a personal touch to their living quarters and truly making it feel like home.

Question 6

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

At Swindon Rentals, we've made it easy and convenient for you to pay your rent:
1. Standing Order: To ensure your rent is paid on time without any hassle, we require each student, parent, or guardian to set up a standing order. Your payment will be automatically processed on the first of every month, ensuring consistency and a smooth tenancy experience.
2. Emergency Secure Card Payment: Forgot to set up your standing order? No worries! We provide an emergency secure card payment option This allows you to quickly and securely make payments, avoiding any potential disruptions to your tenancy.

You can submit a secure payment by using our on line Payments Portal

At Swindon Rentals, we prioritise your convenience and strive to make your rental experience as stress-free as possible. If you have any questions or need assistance with payments, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is dedicated to making your stay with us as enjoyable and seamless as possible.

Question 7

I move in September, when do i have to pay the rent?

Accepted Answer

Your tenancy runs from September to August; however, you will start paying rent from August 1st, a month in advance. The rent payment plan spans from August 1st to July 1st of the following year, covering a twelve-month period. Payments are divided into equal monthly instalments, payable in advance via standing order.

The first payment is due on August 1st, and the final instalment is due on July 1st of the following year.

This payment schedule aligns with the standard practice among landlords providing accommodations to Wilkes Academy students.

Question 8

Is a cleaner provided?

Accepted Answer

While maintaining the cleanliness of your accommodation is your responsibility, a cleaner and our maintenance team will visit approximately every 6 weeks, coinciding with each half term, to inspect the house and clean any communal areas you may have missed.

Question 9

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, parking is available at all our properties, offering convenient street parking for residents.

For certain houses, a parking permit may be necessary, and typically one or two permits are available per property. You can easily request a parking permit through Swindon Rentals from Swindon Borough Council (SBC) for a nominal fee. Our dedicated team will guide you through the process of obtaining the permit.

Question 10

Do the properties  have good access to local amenities and travel options?

Accepted Answer

Yes !  all our properties are strategically positioned within walking distance of the town centre, offering convenient access to shops, cafes, restaurants, and Swindon's bus and train stations. Additionally, their proximity to attractions like Regents Circus, Swindon Old Town, and The McArthur Glen Designer Outlet Centre enhances the convenience and enjoyment of your living experience.

Moreover, with the nearest bus stop just 150 yards away, transportation options are abundant and easily accessible. Whether you're commuting to college, work, visiting relatives, or exploring the surrounding areas, our properties are well-connected to various travel routes.

At Swindon Rentals, we prioritise convenience and accessibility for our residents. That's why we carefully select properties situated in areas that offer a wide range of amenities and seamless travel options.

For more information about our properties and their surrounding amenities, feel free to reach out to us. We're dedicated to providing you with a comfortable and convenient living experience.

Question 11

How close is the bus stop to The Wilkes Academy?

Accepted Answer

The bus stop is conveniently located approximately 150 yards from all our properties, providing easy access to The Wilkes Academy within a short 10-15 minute ride. Moreover, the bus route stops approximately 150 yards from the academy itself.

While we strive to offer accurate information, it's advisable to verify the latest bus schedules and routes directly with the local transportation authority or use online journey planning tools for the most up-to-date information.

Additionally, we recommend factoring in some extra time for potential delays, especially during peak traffic hours, to ensure punctual arrival at your destination.

At Swindon Rentals, we prioritise accessibility and convenience for our residents, and the proximity of the bus stop to The Wilkes Academy reflects this commitment.

Question 12

Can I contact you out of hours if there is an emergency ?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Swindon Rentals provides tenants with an emergency contact number and whatsapp group for urgent issues that may arise outside normal hours. Details are given when you move into the property.

Question 13

How do I register with a doctor?

Accepted Answer

Here is a links to 2 local surgeries  - enter your house post code in the search filed on the map to check which surgery you can be registered with and follow the on line instructions. Please click on the following links to register on line.

https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp/(https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp/)

https://www.parklanepracticeswindon.nhs.uk/alerts/new-patient-registrations/ (https://www.parklanepracticeswindon.nhs.uk/alerts/new-patient-registrations/)

https://www.whalebridge.nhs.uk/index.php/info/registering (https://www.whalebridge.nhs.uk/index.php/info/registering)

Question 14

When are the waste and recycling collection dates?

Accepted Answer

Click on the following link and enter your post code or address to find out what is collected and when. https://www.swindon.gov.uk/info/20122/rubbish_and_recycling_collection_days(https://www.swindon.gov.uk/info/20122/rubbish_and_recycling_collection_days)

Question 15

What is tenancy deposit protection and how does Swindon Rentals handle it for tenants?

Accepted Answer

Tenancy deposit protection safeguards deposits for tenancies in England and Wales, ensuring fair treatment and dispute resolution. Swindon Rentals registers deposits with an approved scheme and provides necessary information promptly, ensuring secure funds and fair deductions.

More information can be found by clicking the following link https://www.depositprotection.com/tenants/starting-a-tenancy/what-is-deposit-protection(https://www.depositprotection.com/tenants/starting-a-tenancy/what-is-deposit-protection)

Question 16

When do I get my deposit back?

Accepted Answer

Your deposit will be returned at the end of the tenancy period, provided that the room and furnishings are in the same condition as when you moved in, with reasonable wear and tear permitted. This means that any damages such as to walls, plasterboard, stains, or holes in carpets will need to be rectified before the deposit is refunded.

Question 17

What happens if I break something?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, accidents can happen. If you accidentally damage something in the property, please let us know as soon as possible. We'll work with you to find a suitable replacement for the damaged item. Our aim is to assist you in sourcing the replacement at the most affordable price possible.

Question 18

Do you have the  how to rent guide?

Accepted Answer

For a detailed guide on renting in England, you can visit this link: How to rent: the checklist for renting in England. Click the following link to access the guide https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-rent/how-to-rent-the-checklist-for-renting-in-england(https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-rent/how-to-rent-the-checklist-for-renting-in-england)

Question 19

Does Swindon Rentals belong to an accreditation scheme?

Accepted Answer

Yes as professional landlords we belong  to the National Residential Landlords Association which ensures landlords are held to strict codes of professional standards. You can click the following link below to be taken to the NRLA web site. https://www.nrla.org.uk/training-academy/accreditation/cpd-activities/accreditation-overview(https://www.nrla.org.uk/training-academy/accreditation/cpd-activities/accreditation-overview)

Question 20

Where can i find information about students in the UK ?

Accepted Answer

Official statistics about students studying at universities and colleges in the UK are published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Click on the following link for more information https://www.hesa.ac.uk/(https://www.hesa.ac.uk/)

Question 21

Where can students get free advice about renting?

Accepted Answer

Students who have questions about their rights when renting accommodation — such as deposits, contracts, repairs or landlord responsibilities — can get free, independent advice from Citizens Advice. Click on the following link for any advice needed https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/renting-with-other-people/(https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/renting-with-other-people/)

Question 22

Is there any advice about budgeting and cost of living ?

Accepted Answer

The cost of living is changing frequently, so when researching the living costs in a specific location, try to find information which is as up to date as possible you can find further advice on budgeting on. You can click on the following for further information https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/(https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/)

Question 23

Do you have any picture sof the houses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can view our gallery and house tours by clicking on the online link below

Question 24

Where do I register for student Housing?

Accepted Answer

You can register for student housing  using our online form.

Question 25

Where can I report a maintenance issue in any of the houses?

Accepted Answer

You can submit a maintenance request using our online form, if urgent please click Yes on the form.

Question 26

Do you have any Testimonials?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Testimonials can found by clicking here