Check out our Second Edition of the Ultimate Student Housing Guide for properties, location tips, recommendations and more.

Seeking an answer to a pressing question?

Here’s some of the most common questions we get asked.

Tenant FAQs

There’s a property on your website I’d like to rent. What’s the next step?

Our award-winning lettings department can find the ideal property for your budget and situation. To arrange a viewing or find out more information about any of our properties, call our lettings department on 0191 243 1000.

How do you set up my tenancy?

It’s really easy. Once the terms and conditions of the tenancy have been agreed with our lettings team, the rest of the sign-up process is dealt with by our Property Management department. We’ll take payments and email you the paperwork to sign electronically. Then you’re ready for the exciting part – collecting the keys.

Do Seekers charge admin fees?

As members of ARLA Propertymark and The Property Ombudsman (TPO), we pride ourselves on being a professional agency and are always transparent about our fees. See our fees here.

What’s a tenancy agreement?

A tenancy agreement is a contract between a landlord and a tenant specifying the terms and conditions of the rental agreements between one another. An ‘Assured Shorthold Tenancy’ is the most common type of tenancy agreement in the UK and is used when renting private residential properties.

Tenancy agreements set out the rights and responsibilities that both the tenant and landlord must abide by, as well the terms of the contract including who the tenant(s) and landlord are, when and how much rent is due, and the dates of the tenancy.

Do I need to pay council tax?

Unless you qualify for a discount or relief, you’ll need to pay council tax. In some properties, the council tax may be included in the rent – this will be stated in the terms of your tenancy agreement.

If everyone in the property is a full-time student, both UK and international students are exempt from paying council tax. The tenants simply need to provide Newcastle City Council with proof of student status.

Do I need to take out contents insurance?

The landlord will have their own insurance but this doesn’t cover your belongings, so it’s a good idea to take out contents insurance when renting a property to protect your valuables from theft or accident.

How does the deposit work?

The total deposit is the equivalent of one month’s rent. Each tenant will typically pay a holding deposit equivalent to one week’s rent to secure the property. The balance of the deposit is then paid within 14 days. All deposits are registered with a professional deposit scheme and tenants will be provided with a certificate to show the total held and the scheme it’s held under.

The deposit is held until the end of the tenancy and is returned subject to a check-out inspection and dependent on any damage caused or cleaning required.

What happens if I need to move out early, or can no longer move in?

If, for any reason, you wish to move out before the end of the tenancy, you’ll still be liable for the rent until a replacement tenant is found. If you’ve signed for a property but can no longer move in, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a full refund of any money already paid, and again, you’ll be liable for the rent until a replacement tenant is found.

Can we change the furniture?

Some landlords are willing to be flexible on requests such as extra storage space, a little redecoration, or replacing furniture. Tenants can place requests through our lettings team who’ll speak with the landlord to confirm if any changes are possible.

What happens if there’s an emergency and the office is closed?

We do our utmost to take care of our tenants. You can call our emergency out-of-hours number: 0191 249 596. Please make sure this number is only used in an emergency as you’ll be charged for any unnecessary call-outs.

Who do I speak to if I’ve got a complaint?

We aim to provide the highest levels of customer service, but if for any reason you’re not completely satisfied, please let us know. Contact the manager of the department your complaint relates to, email enquiries@seekersproperty.co.uk or call us on 0191 243 1000.

Do you offer accessible accommodation?

While we do not offer accommodation that is made specifically to be accessible, prospective tenants are within their rights to request reasonable property adjustments from their landlord. Things that are considered to be reasonable requests include, but are not limited to, handrails, a different chair, and mattress toppers. The landlord would be expected to cover the costs of these types of adjustments.

In the event that a tenant requires major adjustments, such as door widening, changes to the bathroom, or any other structural work, they will likely have to pay for this out of pocket. While a landlord cannot turn a prospective tenant away for this specific reason, they may reject the tenancy on the basis that the property is not suitable, or offer suitable accommodation should there be any available.

Can I get parking?

Many of our properties come with a parking space or garage, or are in locations where there is permit parking on the road. If you’d like to know if a property has parking, give our lettings team a call on 0191 243 1000.

What should I do if I lose my key?

If you’ve lost your keys, get in touch with your property supervisor or give us a call on 0191 243 1000.

In the event that a tenant has lost their keys or any other security device, they will be liable to pay the cost of replacing them. If new locks are also required, then the tenant will be charged for the cost of the locksmith, the new lock, and the replacement keys for themselves, the landlord, and any other tenants.

Student FAQs

Do you offer summer / single semester accommodation?

We understand that year long tenancies aren’t for everyone, unfortunately however, we don’t offer short term tenancies; all of the properties that we offer are for a minimum length of 12 months.

Do you offer accessible accommodation?

While we do not offer accommodation that is made specifically to be accessible, prospective tenants are within their rights to request reasonable property adjustments from their landlord. Things that are considered to be reasonable requests include, but are not limited to, handrails, a different chair, and mattress toppers. The landlord would be expected to cover the costs of these types of adjustments.

In the event that a tenant requires major adjustments, such as door widening, changes to the bathroom, or any other structural work, they will likely have to pay for this out of pocket. While a landlord cannot turn a prospective tenant away for this specific reason, they may reject the tenancy on the basis that the property is not suitable, or offer suitable accommodation should there be any available.

Can I get my luggage posted to the accommodation before my arrival?

Unfortunately we are not able to accept any luggage that is sent to a property before a tenant’s arrival. The property would either still be within an occupied rental period, with other tenants still residing there, or it would be in a “void period” where no-one would be there to allow any access.

What shouldn't I bring when I move into my accommodation?

When it comes to move-in day, there are a few things we suggest not to bring along. Since our properties come fully furnished, there’s no need to bring additional furniture. Unless you have received prior approval from your landlord, it’s also best to leave your pets behind.

We also recommend not bringing anything that could cause a noise nuisance, like large speakers or loud instruments. Bringing valuable items, whether sentimental or expensive, is not advised as you don’t want your house to become a target for thieves.

What should I bring when I move into my accommodation?

As Seekers provides furnished lets, you shouldn’t need to bring too much with you to make your new place comfortable. The essentials include soft furnishings for your bedroom, kitchen supplies like plates and cutlery, and any electrical items aside from your laptop and phone, like hairstyling tools or games consoles.

It’s also a good idea to see whether or not the property has things like a vacuum, kettle, toaster, or microwave, before moving in, you can find out more about using property appliances in our helpful guide.

What should I do if I lose my key?

If you’ve lost your keys, get in touch with your property supervisor or give us a call on 0191 243 1000.

In the event that a tenant has lost their keys or any other security device, they will be liable to pay the cost of replacing them. If new locks are also required, then the tenant will be charged for the cost of the locksmith, the new lock, and the replacement keys for themselves, the landlord, and any other tenants.

What’s a guarantor and who can I nominate?

Most of our tenants who rent student houses in Newcastle require a UK guarantor – this is a person who guarantees that if you fail to pay the rent, they’ll pay it for you. Most students nominate a parent or guardian as their guarantor.

If you’re acting as guarantor on behalf of your son or daughter, you’ll be given a guarantor form to fill in and return with a copy of photographic I.D. The tenant signs a tenancy agreement stating they’re joint and severally liable for the rent payments and therefore, the guarantors are also joint and severally liable.

This means tenants and guarantors are liable for the full rental amount, not just one person’s share of the rent. For example, if there are five tenants and five guarantors, everyone is liable for the full amount, not just a fifth.

International Student FAQs

Is Newcastle a good place for international students?

Newcastle is widely regarded as an excellent place for international students to study. With two top universities located in the city, Newcastle University and Northumbria University, its vibrant culture, wide variety of food and drinks, excellent shopping and welcoming atmosphere, Newcastle offers international students a fulfilling academic and social experience. For more information about living in Newcastle while you study, contact the Seekers team.

How many international students are in Newcastle?

Newcastle is home to a diverse community of international students, with thousands of students from around the world attending Northumbria University and Newcastle University. With its excellent academic reputation, vibrant food and drink and shopping scene, Newcastle welcomes thousands of international students while they undertake their studies abroad. Take a look at our international students guide to Newcastle, or to find out more about accommodation and living in Newcastle contact the Seekers team.

Is Newcastle a good place to live for students?

Yes, Newcastle is a great place to live for international students. Newcastle offers affordable living costs, a variety of accommodation options, from 1 bed flats to group accommodation, excellent transportation links, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere. Newcastle and its communities welcome thousands of international students every year. Take a look at our welcome to Newcastle guide to find out more about living and studying in the city, browse our range of accommodation, or to discuss your requirements further contact the Seekers team.

How do international students find accommodation in the UK?

International students in the UK can find accommodation through student rental property providers, university accommodation services and online platforms specialising in student housing. It's advisable to start the search early to secure suitable accommodation. To secure your student home in Newcastle while you study, get in touch with the Seekers team. The Seekers property team will help you find the right student accommodation for you in Newcastle ready for when you move to the UK.

How much is student accommodation in Newcastle?

The cost of student accommodation in Newcastle varies depending on factors such as location, the type of accommodation, and amenities included. On average, students can expect to pay between £80 to £150 per week for shared or private accommodation. Take a look at our range of student accommodation options online or to discuss your needs for moving to the UK and moving to Newcastle, get in touch with the Seekers team.

What is the minimum cost of living in the UK for international students?

The minimum cost of living in the UK for international students typically includes accommodation, food, transportation, books, and personal expenses. While exact figures vary, a rough estimate suggests a minimum monthly budget of around £800 to £1,200, depending on lifestyle and location. When comparing the cost of living in Newcastle in comparison to cities like London and Manchester, Newcastle is comparatively cheaper and more affordable for students while they study. Find out more about popular student living locations in Newcastle with our locations guide, including Jesmond, Newcastle City Centre, and the Quayside.

Can international students rent a house in the UK?

Yes, international students can rent a house in the UK. However, international students will need to provide specific documents such as proof of enrolment, identification, and a guarantor. To discuss further what you will need as an international student renting a property in Newcastle with Seekers, contact our team, who will provide you with clear information and help you find the right student accommodation whilst you study in Newcastle.

Do international students have the right to rent in the UK?

Yes, international students with a valid visa or residency permit have the right to rent accommodation in the UK. Landlords and letting agencies are required to verify tenants' immigration status before entering into a rental agreement. Here at Seekers, we help international students to find and secure the right student accommodation for their time studying in Newcastle, providing support and guidance for students throughout the rental process.

Is it worth moving to Newcastle?

Moving to Newcastle can be a highly rewarding experience. The city offers a high quality of life, affordable living costs, fantastic places to eat and drink, a wide variety of shopping, excellent educational opportunities at Newcastle University and Northumbria University, a thriving cultural scene, and a strong sense of community, making it a desirable location for international students studying abroad. Find out more about the warm welcome international students will receive in Newcastle, as well as why you should choose to rent a Seekers property while you study in Newcastle by speaking to our team of property experts.

Is it expensive to rent in Newcastle?

While rental prices in Newcastle can vary, the city generally offers more affordable accommodation compared to other major UK cities. Rent costs depend on factors such as location, property size and type, and amenities, but overall, Newcastle provides affordable options for international students. Explore some of the city's most popular student locations with our location guides, including Newcastle City Centre, Jesmond, and Newcastle Quayside.

Why do people move to Newcastle?

People move to Newcastle for various reasons, including to study at its renowned universities, Newcastle University and Northumbria University. Following studying in the city, many international students choose to live in the city as a postgraduate student and ultimately seek job opportunities in the city. To find out more about student accommodation in Newcastle take a look at our range of student rental properties, or for further information contact the Seekers team.

Is Newcastle city good to live in?

Yes, Newcastle is an excellent city to live in for international students. It boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful green spaces, lively nightlife, a wide variety of places to eat and drink, great shopping, and a strong sense of community. Find the right student accommodation for your time studying abroad in Newcastle with Seekers.

Is Newcastle a safe city for students?

Newcastle is considered a safe city for students, with low crime rates and a welcoming environment. The city takes measures to ensure the safety of its residents and visitors, including well-lit streets, effective law enforcement, and initiatives aimed at supporting community safety and well-being. In the event that you do experience any antisocial behaviour, we ask that you report this to the Seekers team, or in an emergency contact the relevant authorities. For more information, take a look at our guide to reporting anti-social behaviour.

Landlord FAQs

How do I start being a landlord?

To become a landlord, you'll need to take several steps:

  • Assess the market and research property investment opportunities
  • Secure financing or purchase a property outright
  • Understand local landlord-tenant laws and regulations
  • Prepare your property for rent, ensuring it meets safety and habitability standards for your tenants
  • Set rental rates, create lease agreements, and market your property to potential tenants
  • Screen tenants thoroughly and manage the rental process professionally

Whether you are considering a property investment in Newcastle, need a valuation of an existing property that you are thinking of letting, or are looking for a property management company to manage everything for you, from finding new tenants to looking after property repairs, contact the Seekers team for more information.

Are you allowed to rent out your first property?

Yes, you are allowed to rent out your first property, provided you comply with local regulations, obtain necessary licences or permits, and adhere to landlord-tenant laws. Seekers can assist you in understanding these requirements, ensuring that you are legally compliant, and find the right tenants for your property. To find out more about our landlord services, get in touch.

What do I need to do when I become a landlord?

When you become a landlord, you should:

  • Understand your legal obligations and responsibilities
  • Prepare your property for rent and ensure it meets safety standards
  • Set rental terms, including rent amount, lease duration, and rules for tenants
  • Screen potential tenants carefully to find reliable renters
  • Maintain the property and address tenant concerns promptly
  • Keep accurate financial records and manage rental income and expenses

For more information, take a look at our top tips for first time landlords guide, or why not get in touch and speak to one of the Seekers team, who will be able to provide tailored and expert advice about how to rent out your property with our dedicated landlord services team.

What are the legal requirements of a private landlord?

Legal requirements for private landlords typically include:

  • Ensuring the property meets health and safety standards
  • Providing tenants with a written tenancy agreement
  • Protecting tenants' deposits in a government-approved scheme
  • Conducting annual gas safety checks and maintaining gas appliances
  • Obtaining an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
  • Complying with anti-discrimination laws and regulations

As an experienced or first time landlord, there is a lengthy checklist of landlord requirements that you must meet. To take the stress and worry out of letting your property, Seekers landlord services manage everything for you, from property refurbishments advice and support, finding the right tenants, arranging tenant paperwork and rental fees, to giving your new tenants their keys. Find out more about our landlord services by getting in touch with the Seekers team.

What are the things landlords must do?

Any landlord letting a property must:

  • Maintain the property in a safe and habitable condition
  • Address tenant concerns and repair requests promptly
  • Collect rent on time and enforce lease terms
  • Provide proper notice before entering the rental property
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations
  • Keep accurate records of rental income and expenses

Here at Seekers, we understand how demanding letting a property can be, ensuring that your tenants are happy, as well as meeting different landlord regulations, that’s why Seekers landlord services take all of the stress and hassle out of letting your property. Get in touch with our team of property experts, who can manage the entire letting process for you, from refurbishment support to marketing to find the right tenants.

What checks do I need as a landlord?

As a landlord, you will need to conduct:

  • Tenant background and credit checks
  • Right to Rent checks to verify tenants' immigration status
  • Gas safety checks by a registered engineer
  • Electrical safety checks
  • Establish references from previous landlords or employers
  • Landlord insurance and property inspections
  • Property refurbishments as required

For more landlord checklists and first landlord advice head to our landlord advice hub, alternatively get in touch with our team, who will be happy to provide you with tailored support and guidance about letting your property in Newcastle.

What are the new rules for landlords in 2024?

For the most up-to-date information on recent changes to landlord regulations, contact the Seekers team who can provide accurate and expert knowledge on regulations affecting landlords in 2024, including changes to rental laws, safety requirements, or tax obligations for your property in Newcastle.

What fees does a landlord pay?

Our management fees work on a sliding scale, and we do not charge a tenant find fee on top of these.

This ensures that your landlord fee stays the same throughout the year, avoiding spikes in charges at the beginning or end of tenancies, allowing you to plan ahead more accurately.

Our all-Inclusive Property Management service normally costs between 12% and 25% inclusive of VAT.

Whether you are a first time landlord or a seasoned professional landlord, contact Seekers to speak to one of our team about our award winning landlord services.

What is a letting fee for a landlord?

A letting fee is a one-time charge paid by the landlord to a letting agent for finding and securing a suitable tenant for the rental property. This fee typically covers tenant screening, lease preparation, and initial property inspections. For more information about landlord letting fees with Seekers, get in touch with our team, who will be happy to chat to you about our landlord services.

What is the landlord administration fee?

The landlord administration fee is a charge by property management companies or letting agents to cover administrative tasks related to managing the rental property. This fee may include services such as rent collection, lease renewals, and handling maintenance requests. For more information about Seekers landlord fees and our award winning and trusted landlord services, contact the Seekers team.

How much do landlord services cost?

The cost of landlord services can vary depending on factors such as the location of the property, the level of service provided, and the specific needs of the landlord. Find out more about our landlord fees by speaking to one of our team of property experts here at Seekers. Our experienced team can provide you with detailed information on the costs associated with property management services in Newcastle.

Rental Fees & Bills

How much does rent cost in Newcastle?

The cost of renting in Newcastle varies and is dependent on a number of factors, including the type of property you are renting and the amenities it includes, in addition to the location of the property you are renting.

The cost of renting in Newcastle is comparatively low compared to other major cities in the UK.

Explore our range of rental properties in Newcastle, including popular student areas, including Newcastle city centre, Jesmond and Heaton, as well as professional rental locations, in Gosforth, Fenham, and the Quayside.

Is it expensive to rent in Newcastle?

The cost of rent in Newcastle in comparison to other major cities in the UK, such as London, is much lower. Depending on an individual's budget, renting in Newcastle is often considered more affordable.

To find out why you should choose to live in Newcastle, head to our view properties page and explore our range of available rental properties, with details of property locations, rental cost and amenities.

What are utility bills?

Utility bills are recurring invoices or statements issued by service providers for essential services your household uses, such as electricity, water, gas, and other public services. Utility bills outline the consumption of these services over a specific period and specify the charge for each. The cost of utility bills varies based on the service provider, usage, location, and the type of service provided.

Need more information about utility bills when renting a property with Seekers? Get in touch with our team or take a look at our bills package page.

Are utility bills included within the weekly or monthly cost of my rent?

Here at Seekers we offer utility bills packages at an additional cost to your monthly or weekly rental fee*. Our utility bills packages could save you time and money, taking the stress out of sorting and paying for each individual utility service through different providers. You will make a single consolidated payment direct to Seekers for all of your utilities. As long as you stay within the generously calculated usage caps, the price you pay won’t change over the course of your tenancy. What's more, we have some properties that now offer ‘truly unlimited’ usage. For more information head to our bills packages page to find out about the benefits and costs of our utility bills packages.

*Some rental properties are excluded from our bills package offer. Please speak to the Seekers team for details of properties included and the terms that apply to them.

Is it better to rent with bills included?

Choosing whether to rent with bills included or not depends on your preferences and lifestyle. Renting with bills included can simplify budgeting, provide convenience, and shield you from fluctuating utility costs. With our affordable bills packages* Seekers take the stress and hassle out of your utility bills whilst you rent. For more information, get in touch with our team or take a look at our bills packages page.

*Some properties are excluded from our bills package offer. Please speak to the Seekers team for details of rental properties included and the terms that apply to them.

Who is responsible for utility bills when you are renting a property?

As the tenant of a property, you and any other tenants living with you in shared property, are responsible for managing and paying the utility bills. Take a look at our helpful guide on how to easily set up and manage your utility bills.

For those that want to take the stress out of managing and paying utility bills, Seekers offers affordable bills packages for its rental properties* at an additional cost to weekly / monthly rental fees. With Seekers utility bills packages, all of your utilities are managed by our team, saving you time and money. For more information about our bills packages, get in touch with our team.

*Some properties are exempt from our bills package offer. Please speak to the Seekers team for details of rental properties included and the terms that apply to them.

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