Regularly Asked Questions for Students & Parents

How do we secure a property? 
Once you have found a property you'd like to rent, contact our office as soon as possible. To proceed with an application, we will require student ID proof and student status in line with Right to Rent legislation.

You will be provided with key tenancy documents, including a draft tenancy agreement, the Government's How to Rent Guide, and the property's EPC. A holding deposit will be required to reserve the property. This is capped at no more than one week's rent per person and will be deducted from your first rent payment.

When would the tenancy typically commence? 
July

How much is a holding deposit? 
This is capped at no more than one week's rent per person and will be deducted from your first rent payment.

Are bills included? 
Unless specifically stated in the property advert, utilities are not included in the rent. This means tenants are usually responsible for gas, electricity, water, broadband and TV licence costs.

Do I need a guarantor? 
Yes. All tenants are required to provide a UK-based guarantor who will guarantee the tenancy agreement.

If you are an overseas student and do not have a suitable UK guarantor, there are specialist guarantor companies that may be able to assist.

How is rent paid? 
Rent is usually paid monthly by one lead tenant on behalf of the group. It is important that all housemates contribute their share to ensure payments are made on time.

What happens if rent is paid late? 
If your rent is not received by the due date, reminders and arrears notices may be issued. Interest may be charged on rent that remains unpaid for more than 14 days, in accordance with the tenancy agreement.

Are bedroom doors fitted with locks? 
Most student properties do not have individual locks on bedroom doors. If this is important to your group, please ask when viewing a property.

What furniture is included? 
Most student properties are fully furnished. Typically this includes:

Bedrooms

• Bed
• Wardrobe
• Chest of drawers
• Desk
• Chair

Living Areas

• Sofas

Kitchen

• Cooker
• Fridge/freezer
• Washing machine

We recommend checking the inventory or asking during your viewing if there is a particular item you require.

Is parking available? 
Parking arrangements vary from property to property. Some properties are eligible for residents' parking permits through Devon County Council, whilst others are not. We recommend checking with Devon County Council directly before committing to a property if parking is important to you.

How long is the tenancy? 
Under current legislation, student tenancies are periodic. Full details of the tenancy terms will be explained before you sign your tenancy agreement.

What is the difference between Managed and Tenant Find properties? 
Managed Properties: Star Students manages the property on behalf of the landlord. Our dedicated Tenancy Management Team will be your point of contact throughout the tenancy, with access to emergency contact details should an urgent issue arise. Deposits are protected with The Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).

Tenant Find Properties: Star Students markets the property and arranges the tenancy. Once you move in, the landlord manages the property directly and becomes your main point of contact. The landlord is responsible for protecting the tenancy deposit.

How much is the tenancy deposit? 
Typically £700 although some landlords could request equivalent to one month's rent and is payable before you move into the property. For managed properties, deposits are protected with The Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).

Can parents contact Star Students? 
Absolutely. We understand that renting a property is often a student's first experience away from home, and parents frequently have questions about the process. Our friendly team is always happy to explain how student tenancies work and guide both students and parents through the letting process.