USI and RTB launch the Finance and Accommodation Guide to prep new Students for College
The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) and the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) will be launching the 2016 Finance and Accommodation guide in Maynooth University Students’ Union on Tuesday the 30th August at 9:15am in preparation for students coming to college. The guide details the rights and obligations students have while renting in accommodation and includes tips and advice for students who may be renting for the first time. It also informs students on the new tenancies regulations set by the Residential Tenancy Act 2015.
The guide has a rent book and inventory checklist included, so students can record any damages or missing utensils at the start of the lease, and not be penalised unfairly on their deposit. The guide also provides information on finance and gives budgeting tips for students to financially manage the college year.
“USI is delighted to be launching the 2016 Finance and Accommodation guide with the RTB.” Annie Hoey, USI President, said. “It will really help students, especially those moving away from home for the first time, with tips on finding accommodation, what to do once you’ve found the accommodation, and what to do to organise yourself before starting college.”
USI is urging students to do their best to sort out accommodation in advance and move in a couple of days before starting college so that they are familiar with the area and local surroundings including bus routes, local facilities, supermarkets, etc.
“The Residential Tenancies Board publishes the most accurate nationwide rent report of its kind on the private accommodation sector, because it’s based on actual rents received, not rent sought.” Dillon Grace, Maynooth Students’ Union President, said. “The Finance and Accommodation guide will inform students on everything they need to know in these areas, from legal rights to practical tips.”
Speaking at the launch, Ms. Rosalind Carroll, Director of the RTB, said – “This is a valuable guide for all students, especially first-years. It is important that students renting accommodation are aware of their rights and responsibilities, and that they are aware of and use the services of the Residential Tenancies Board if a dispute arises. The guide provides lots of helpful information on finding rented accommodation, viewing and moving in to properties, and ending tenancies. All tenants and prospective tenants are also urged to go to our website, www.rtb.ie which provides extensive information for both tenants and landlords, including information on our disputes resolution service. For further information, call the RTB on 0818 30 30 37”.
Once students find somewhere they like, USI is advising them to ring it to arrange a viewing as soon as they can. The union is also advising students not to hand over money until they receive the keys and the tenancy begins, if at all possible. USI is also urging students to transfer money electronically as it is traceable, or if they have to pay by cash to make sure they always get a receipt. USI said there is a lot of useful accommodation hunting websites online such as Daft.ie for renting, or homes.usi.ie for digs.
“We are encouraging students to ‘like’ their Students’ Union and College page on Facebook and Twitter for information on upcoming events, entertainments and promotions.” USI President, Annie Hoey, said. “We are also advising students to get the phone numbers for a few taxi companies, the college switchboard, college health and medical centre, chaplain, local emergency services and Students’ Union officers.”