Question 1

Can I book a flat with friends?

Accepted Answer

You can request to live with friends by making a group booking. Everyone in the group must meet the booking requirements and room availability cannot be guaranteed. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 2

Can I book without Advance Rent Payment?

Accepted Answer

Advance rent is usually required at the time of booking unless you meet exemption criteria such as rebooking or paying in full. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 3

Do I need to buy contents insurance for my room?

Accepted Answer

We recommend arranging your own contents insurance to ensure your personal belongings are protected during your stay.

Question 4

Who can book a room?

Accepted Answer

Any full-time student with a valid guarantor and payment details can book a room. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 5

I haven't paid rent yet, can I still move in?

Accepted Answer

Usually, your first instalment or advance rent must be paid before you move in. If you’re experiencing issues, get in touch with our team at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 6

Do students have to pay council tax?

Accepted Answer

Full-time students usually don't need to pay council tax, but you may need to notify your local council. If your student status changes during your tenancy, you might become liable. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.co

Question 7

What is advance rent? Do I still need to pay a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Advance rent is typically a non-refundable upfront payment (often £250) that counts towards your first rent instalment. In most cases, deposits are no longer required. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 8

Can I cancel my booking?

Accepted Answer

You may cancel within the cooling-off period, but charges could apply if you cancel later unless you meet special conditions. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 9

When are rooms available for the next academic year?

Accepted Answer

Rooms for the next academic year are typically released around November. Availability is first-come-first-served, so it’s best to book early.

Question 10

My visa application has been declined. Can I cancel my booking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you may cancel your booking by providing your visa rejection letter. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 11

Can I pay by bank transfer?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, especially for international students, payment by bank transfer may be allowed. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 12

How can I make a payment?

Accepted Answer

You can pay by credit/debit card, or direct debit. Some international students may be allowed to pay via bank transfer. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 13

Do I still need to pay rent if I’m not using my room over term breaks?

Accepted Answer

We continue to provide a home to students, even with the differences that the 2020/2021 academic year has brought. We continue to adjust our services and ensure that we are operating as safely as possible, in line with advice from the relevant authorities

Question 14

Do students have to pay for a TV licence?

Accepted Answer

If you watch live or on-demand TV, you will need a TV Licence. This applies regardless of your device.

Question 15

Can I share a studio room with someone else?

Accepted Answer

Some properties offer dual occupancy studio rooms, but most rooms are for single occupancy only. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 16

What is an instalment schedule, and how many instalments will I have?

Accepted Answer

Your instalment schedule outlines your rent due dates and amounts. The number of instalments depends on your residency status and the property's policy. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 17

How do I book a room?

Accepted Answer

To book a room, you’ll need to provide payment details, an advance rent payment (if required), accept the tenancy agreement, and ensure your guarantor accepts as well. Get in touch with our team for help at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 18

How do I cancel my room booking?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your booking within 7 days of your booking confirmation email to avoid charges. After that, charges may apply unless you find a replacement tenant or qualify for special cancellation options. Get in touch with our team for more details at s

Question 19

What happens if I can't pay because I haven't received my loan yet?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, arrangements can be made if your student loan is delayed. Proof of loan dates may be required. Get in touch with our team at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 20

What if I am a first-year student and my university offer is withdrawn?

Accepted Answer

You may be eligible to cancel without penalty. Proof must be submitted within 7 days of your results. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 21

Can I get out of my tenancy if I find someone to take my room?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if a suitable replacement tenant is found, you can be released from your tenancy. This tenant must meet the booking eligibility criteria. Get in touch with our team for assistance at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 22

I didn't get the grades I need to secure a place at university. Can I cancel my booking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you may be eligible to cancel without penalty. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 23

What happens if I can't make a payment?

Accepted Answer

If you’re struggling to pay rent, contact us as soon as possible to discuss your options. Get in touch with our team at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 24

Can I have visitors in my room and how long for?

Accepted Answer

All customers should follow their property’s rules on having guests. Please speak to your property team if you don’t know what these are.

Question 25

What is a guarantor and why do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A guarantor is someone over 25 who takes financial responsibility for your tenancy if you’re unable to pay.

Question 26

What if I am an international student and my visa application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your student visa is refused, you may cancel your tenancy by providing the visa rejection letter within 7 days of receiving it. Get in touch with our team for assistance at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 27

What happens if I cancel after the 7-day cooling-off period?

Accepted Answer

You may still be liable for rent unless a replacement is found or an exception applies. Get in touch with our team for more details at studentengage@alpha-way.com.

Question 28

Can I sublet my room to someone else?

Accepted Answer

No, subletting your room is not allowed. If you do wish to leave your contract early you will need to find a replacement tenant, and provide us with their details so that we can release you from your contract and create a new tenancy agreement for them.

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