Issue 151

Students' Union to Launch Letting Agency

29th January 2007

In an effort to improve the standards of accommodation available to students, The Students' Union has announced that it will be launching its own letting service, Swansea Accommodation Service (SAS) on February 1.

It is hoped that Swansea Accommodation Service will help to improve the standard of student accommodation as well as reducing the high level of complaints from students every year.

Thomas Bardell, manager of Swansea Accommodation Service said that, "our aim is to work in partnership with landlords, students and the wider local community in developing a greater provision of better quality housing within the local lettings market."

Swansea Accommodation Service will only market properties that meet an acceptable standard. As landlords will no longer be able to register their properties around the University, it is thought that Swansea Accommodation Service will encourage landlords to improve the quality of their properties and that the letting agency will become the first and firm choice for students on campus.

The improvement of accommodation may ultimately attract an even higher intake of students and raise the demand for privately rented accommodation in Swansea.

Michelle Wales, External Affairs Manager for Shelter Cymru, said, "It is essential that students are aware of their property rights in relation to housing to ensure that their time in further education is not blighted by poor living conditions." Thomas Bardell said, "students should make sure that an inventory of any damage to the property is taken with any supporting photographs."

Thomas Bardell also stated that, "The welfare and needs of students, and putting their concerns first is our primary focus."

"It is believed that this initiative will remove the opportunity for rogue agencies and landlords to target students."

Swansea Accommodation Service will market and manage properties for private landlords. Students will be accompanied to view properties with members of Swansea Accommodation Service to ensure that each property meets a high standard of quality. Swansea Accommodation Service will also ensure that there is an adequate provision of kitchen and bathroom facilities, security features, furniture and décor.

Every property listed will also have to meet the current electrical, gas and fire regulations.

Thomas Bardell said that, "we aim to manage as many properties as we can so that we can help students with any problems of maintenance issues once they have moved in."

For the time being students will have to register via email at saslettings@hotmail.co.uk or at the Students' Union reception desk (Level Two, Union House).

Students and landlords will be able to attend the official launch on Thursday 1 February, at 10:00am. in the Digital Technium at Swansea University, with guests including local Assembly Members (AM's). Further information is available by visiting www.saslettings.co.uk or emailing Thomas Bardell, thomas.bardell@swanseaunion.co.uk.

Jason Sannegadu