The University of Worcester Student Union/Accommodation office encourages landlords to provide safe, well-maintained, and high-quality housing, focusing on durable furnishings, fire safety compliance, and clear inventories. Landlords are advised to ensure secure, insulated, and, if possible, accredited properties to meet student needs, often in coordination with local authority standards.
Key Requirements & Suggestions to consider when you are looking at private accommodation:
Key Fire Safety Standards.
Landlords are required to ensure the property meets strict fire safety standards, which are often checked during licensing inspections:
- Fire Detection: Interlinked, mains-wired smoke detectors must be installed in hallways, landings, and high-risk rooms (e.g., kitchens), complying with BS 5839:2019.
- Fire Doors: Fire doors with self-closers and intumescent strips are required for kitchens and, depending on the property size, bedrooms.
- Escape Routes: All escape routes (hallways, landings) must be kept free from obstruction.
- Fire Extinguishers/Blankets: These should be provided in communal areas, particularly in kitchens.
- Gas/Electric Safety: Landlords must provide valid gas safety certificates and electrical safety certificates.
- Safety & Compliance: Landlords must ensure all furniture complies with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire/Safety) Regulations 1988. .
Other things to consider
- Furnishings: While new furniture is not required, it should be durable and in good condition (e.g., matching curtains, sturdy bookshelves).
- Inventory: A detailed, signed inventory is strongly recommended to document the condition of items at the start of the tenancy.
- Comfort & Utility: Providing a communal lounge area, efficient central heating (to combat condensation), and adequate kitchen storage is advised for a desirable student property.
- Security: Ensure robust locks on windows, doors, and bedroom doors, with consideration for safe bike storage