student apartments in Edinburgh

When students move to Edinburgh they want a comfortable and safe apartment that is well located. In a city like Edinburgh with its history, traditions and lively student nightlife you want to be close to campus, as well as all the other things you will enjoy about your time there. Luckily, there is plenty of student housing available in Edinburgh that fits all of these criteria.

Many students choose to live in edinburgh college accommodation. These flats are usually a lot cheaper than renting a private flat because the rent is divided between several people. They also tend to have more facilities and security measures than a private flat, making them an excellent choice for students who are on a budget. Nevertheless, it is important to be aware of the issues involved with PBSA. In particular, the fact that they are exempt from the Scottish private residential tenancy rules and regulations means that students can be vulnerable to landlords increasing their rent without warning or giving them notice. This was a major issue during the coronavirus pandemic, although recent legislation has been introduced to provide additional protections for students living in PBSA.

In addition, a study by Soorenian (2015) found that many PBSA flats do not meet basic accessibility standards. These include a lack of lifts, steep stairs, narrow corridors, heavy doors, inappropriately positioned furniture and the absence of visual smoke alarms (for visually impaired students). These factors can make living in a PBSA flat a challenge for some disabled students.

What issues should be paid attention to when renting student apartments in Edinburgh?

It is possible for students to live in more accessible student apartments edinburgh in the private sector than in PBSA, but demand greatly outstrips supply. This has led to some students paying PS900 or more for a room in a flat share. It appears that the HMO ban has contributed to this; by prohibiting landlords from renting their 3+ bedroom properties to students, it is driving up rents in the private lettings market.

Carefully inspect the student apartment before signing the contract. Take note of any existing damages or issues, and inform the landlord or letting agency to avoid being held responsible for them later. It is advisable to document the condition of the property through photographs or a detailed inventory report, which can serve as evidence in case of disputes regarding the return of the security deposit. Ensure that all essential amenities and appliances are in working order, including heating, plumbing, and electrical systems.

 Understand the deposit requirements and repayment terms outlined in the rental contract. Typically, landlords require a security deposit upfront, which serves as protection against potential damages or unpaid rent. Ensure that the contract clearly states the amount of the deposit, the circumstances under which it may be withheld, and the process for its return upon the end of the tenancy. Familiarize yourself with the legal regulations surrounding deposit protection schemes in Scotland to ensure compliance and safeguard your rights as a tenant.

Some students prefer to rent apartments or flats outside the campus vicinity. Off-campus accommodation provides more privacy and independence but may require longer commutes to attend classes. Students living in off-campus apartments often experience a more realistic taste of adulthood, as they manage household responsibilities and experience life in the broader community.

Another issue with PBSA is that it is often not as well maintained as the majority of privately-rented property in Scotland. In the past, some providers have not provided heating and hot water when needed, and some flats have had damp and mould problems. This can cause discomfort and lead to illness, which can impact on a student’s wellbeing and ability to study.

The best way to avoid these issues is to check that your prospective landlord is a licensed and registered landlord before signing any contracts. You can do this by visiting the Landlord Registration and Compliance website. This site provides information on what requirements a landlord must meet in order to legally rent their property in the UK. It will also tell you how to contact the local authority if you think that your landlord is breaking the law. You should also check that your landlord has a valid gas certificate and electrical safety certificates before moving into a flat. You should also check that your flat has a working fire alarm.