In addition to offers of accommodation on our interactive website Middlesexstudentpad, estate/letting agents, local and London-wide newspapers and advertisers can also provide leads to private rented accommodation. Rented accommodation which is advertised in newspapers is let very quickly, so it is important to buy the paper as soon as it comes out, to start telephoning straight away and be prepared to visit the accommodation that day.
The following local newspapers are available weekly:
There are also some free papers which are delivered in restricted areas and which include the Barnet Independent and the Barnet Advertiser.
These are establishments that offer a selection of properties to rent or buy. In general they deal with whole flats and houses, but can in addition, be a useful source of rented accommodation in a shared flat or house. Some produce lists of available accommodation which can be obtained directly from them on request.
It is illegal for an agency to charge a fee for you to register with them to provide you with details of available accommodation or to provide addresses of properties. They can only charge a fee once you have secured accommodation. Students are strongly advised to enquire about any relevant charges such as "referencing fees", "administration fees", "contract fees", "credit check fees", "preparation fees", "letting fees" or "inventory fees" before you using the services of a letting agency.
Some Estate/Letting Agents are members of either ARLA (The Association of Residential Letting Agents) or NAEA (The National Association of Estate Agents) however, registration with these organisations is voluntary.
From 6th April 2007, all deposits taken by landlords/letting agents in respect of Assured Shorthold Tenancies must be protected by the tenancy deposit protection scheme. Estate/letting agents must provide you with the details of the Government-approved scheme protecting your deposit.
Always get a receipt for any money you pay. This should clearly state what the amount covers and whether or not it is refundable. Never sign any agreement unless you are completely happy with the property being offered and fully understand the terms of the agreement. Always keep a copy of any agreements you sign as this will avoid any possible later disputes.
The Estate/Letting Agencies List provided is impartial and inclusion does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the University.
This provides information and advice on a wide range of practical matters, including problems between owners and tenants. Advisors are available at each campus.
See: Student Welfare Advice Team
Many local authorities run housing advice centres. They also offer advice on a number of housing matters and often help those in need. Some authorities make special provision for homeless single young people and childless couples. Housing advice centres also give advice on any problems arising after finding accommodation such as tenancy agreements, difficulties in getting repairs carried out and landlord/tenant disputes.
See: Barnet Hub Citizens Advice Bureau - 0300 456 8365
