As the academic year winds down, students face the dilemma of what to do with their housing arrangements during the summer months. Whether you’re contemplating leaving your student accommodation vacant, staying put, or figuring out where to store your belongings, there are several factors to consider. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating student housing during summer break, with a special focus on options available in Bangor, North Wales.
Do I have to pay rent for student housing during summer break?
In the majority of cases you will have to pay for student housing during summer break, though how much this is will really depend on the contract you’ve signed. If you have to pay full rent during this period then you should be able to reside in your student housing during summer break, in addition to storing your belongings there. If your contract states that you pay a reduced rate during the summer months then you will most likely not be permitted to live in the property during this time. However, you’ll be more than likely able to store your belongings there, though in most cases these will be in boxes and on your bed, not unpacked or spread throughout the house. You should ask your landlord or letting agent to clarify this for you if you’re at all unsure of what you’re supposed to do.
Finally, it may be the case that you don’t pay anything at all for student housing during summer break. If this applies to you it’s most likely because the property is undergoing major refurbishment throughout the summer, making it impossible for anyone to store belongings there, never mind spend the night! Of course, if you rent student accommodation directly from your university then it is most likely that you don’t pay rent because your room(s) is let on a short-term basis throughout the summer to summer students or other visitors.
Leaving your property vacant
One option many students consider is leaving their accommodation vacant during the summer. Often, landlords or property management companies may offer a reduced rent rate if you’re not occupying the property. This can be a financially beneficial arrangement as it alleviates the burden of paying full rent while not actually living there.
However, there are several considerations to keep in mind:
- Negotiation: Not all landlords will automatically offer reduced rent. You may need to negotiate this arrangement, highlighting the mutual benefit of securing the property without the wear and tear of occupancy.
- Security: Leaving a property vacant can increase the risk of break-ins. Ensure you have robust security measures in place, such as alarms, secure locks, and informing your landlord or property manager so they can keep an eye on the property.
- Utilities: Discuss with your landlord about turning off utilities to save on costs. However, be cautious about turning off the heating completely to prevent issues like mold.
At Varcity Living we offer many of our contracts at a reduced rate over the summer on the proviso that contract holders are not residing at the property during this time. The benefit of this is that the landlord, or our contractors or maintenance team if we are managing the property, are able to access the property during this period and make essential changes and updates. This ensures that you return to a property that is updated, with any pre-existing issues resolved in your absence. In the majority of cases you will be able to store your belongings in the property as well, meaning you don’t have to pay for storage or move your belongings back and forth.
Staying in student housing during summer break
Staying in your student accommodation over the summer has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Continuity: Staying put means you don’t have to deal with the hassle of moving. This is particularly beneficial if you have a summer job, internship, or coursework.
- Community: Remaining in your student accommodation allows you to stay connected with friends and the local community. This can make for a more enjoyable summer.
- Study space: If you’re undertaking summer courses or preparing for exams, having a familiar and dedicated study space can be a significant advantage, especially if you would struggle to study seriously from your usual abode.
Cons:
- Cost: The primary drawback is the financial aspect. Paying full rent for the summer months can be a significant expense, especially if you have limited income during this period.
- Loneliness: With many students leaving for the summer, staying behind can sometimes be isolating.
- Maintenance: If there’s any major maintenance or renovation work scheduled for the summer, staying in your accommodation might be inconvenient. If you know upfront that you wish to reside in the property over the summer you should make this clear to the letting agent so that they can make sure to find you a home where this is an option.
Storing your belongings
If you decide to leave your student accommodation for the summer but cannot keep your belongings there, storage solutions are a practical alternative. In Bangor, North Wales, there are a few options:
- Self-storage units: Facilities like Lock Stock Self Storage provide various unit sizes to accommodate different needs. These units are typically secure, accessible, and can be rented on a short-term basis. Some alternatives are Student Storage Box and LoveSpace, which are less localised.
- University storage solutions: Some universities offer storage services for students. Check with Bangor University to see if they have such arrangements. These services are often more affordable and conveniently located on campus.
- Shared storage: If you have friends or classmates in a similar situation, consider pooling resources to rent a larger storage unit. This can reduce costs significantly.
Navigating student housing during summer break requires careful consideration of your personal circumstances, financial situation, and future plans. Whether you choose to stay, leave, or store your belongings, planning ahead and exploring your options will help ensure a smooth transition into the next academic year. If you have any questions about your own Varcity Living student housing during summer break then please get in touch with a member of our team by emailing info@varcityltd.com so that they can answer these for you.
