We’re sure you have many questions! Here are some of the answers you are looking for.
Applying
How and when can I apply?
You can apply any time using the online application system. Fees and academic year dates are normally published in November each year when offers begin.
How long can I book a room for?
The length of booking is for an entire academic year, totalling 39 weeks. You can also book periods of time (up to 12 weeks) before and after the academic year.
When will I hear if my application has been successful?
You should receive a confirmation from the Accommodation Office within a few days, stating that we have received your application. The Accommodation Office will be in touch with you as soon as it has decided whether or not to offer you a place. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we cannot guarantee you a place.
After I receive an offer, when will my deposit be due?
Your offer is conditional on receiving the deposit. Until the deposit is received, the offer is not firm, so we recommend paying as soon as possible to secure your place.
How much deposit do I need to pay?
Your deposit is a sum of four weeks’ rent taken to reserve your booking and held by Lee Abbey for the duration of your stay.
How should I pay my deposit?
Your room deposit may be paid by bank transfer or online at TransferMate.
What is a licence agreement?
A licence agreement is a legal contract which is used for temporary accommodation or shared housing and differs from a tenancy agreement.
What are the cancellation charges after I have paid my room deposit?
If you cancel more than 8 weeks before your arrival date, there is no penalty. Within 8 weeks of your arrival, there will be a fee if you cancel. The cancellation policy will be explained in your offer letter.
Am I able to request a specific room or share a room with my friend?
You may ask the Accommodation Office for a specific room. We’ll consider your request but cannot guarantee we will grant it. If you would like to share a room with a friend, please give details in your application form and contact the Accommodation Office. Normally, we would expect to be able to fulfil this request.
Arriving
Can I arrive before the start of the academic year?
Yes, there may be rooms available up to 13 weeks before the start of the academic year, depending on when you would like to arrive. Please contact the Accommodation Office.
When can I check in?
Check-in time is after 4.00 pm. However, you may store your belongings here from 9.00 am until you check in later in the day.
Can I pay my rent in instalments?
If you pay your fees for the full academic year in advance, you will be eligible for a small discount.
If you are not able to do this, please pay according to the following schedule:
- 16 weeks’ fees due before the start of the academic year in September
- 8 weeks’ fees due at a defined date in early January
- 15 weeks’ fees due at a defined date at the end of February/early March
We will tell you the exact dates these fees are due well in advance.
What does my rent include?
Your rent includes all utilities (gas, water, electricity), internet, bedding, breakfast and dinner on weekdays, and all three meals at weekends.
What do I need to bring?
Bring a towel with you. We will provide you with a duvet, pillow and fitted sheet.
How do I register with a doctor?
There is a local GP (doctor’s surgery) where you can register using the letter we give you at check-in. We recommend you register with a doctor as soon as possible, because they cannot treat you for an illness unless you are registered with them.
Living
Is there Wi-Fi in my room?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available throughout Lee Abbey London. Internet use is included in your fees. You will need to register with our ISP, Glide, in order to use this service.
Are meals included, and do you cater for special diets?
Yes, meals are included in your fees. We offer breakfast and evening meal (half-board) on Monday to Friday and breakfast, lunch and evening meal (full-board) on Saturday and Sunday. Find out more about meals and special diets…
How often are the rooms cleaned?
Residents are responsible for cleaning their own rooms, and we inspect these weekly.
May I have guests to stay over?
You are welcome to have guests in the building until 11.00 pm. If you would like a friend to stay over, you need to book with the Accommodation Office. In some cases, if your friend is the same gender as you and your room is large enough, you may be able to book for them to stay in your room on a folding bed.
Am I able to change rooms during the academic year?
If you have a problem with your room, please speak to the Accommodation Office.
Do you have music practice rooms?
We have three practice rooms available for use, each with a piano.
How can I open a bank account?
You will be given a letter in your arrival pack, which you can use to open a bank account.
Do you have a curfew?
We do not have a curfew. You may enter and exit the building 24 hours a day. However, we do have quiet hours between 11.00 pm and 8.00 am, and ask you to respect others in the house and our neighbours during that time.
Is there 24 hour security?
There is CCTV in operation at Lee Abbey London.
What do I do if something is not working in my room?
Raise a ticket on the Lee Abbey app. The team will deal with issues in order of urgency.
Are there kitchen facilities available?
Lee Abbey London has a house kitchen available for your use 24 hours a day. There are two cookers and two microwaves, as well as a number of fridges/freezers.
Can I have a fridge or hot water kettle in my room?
You can have certain items in your room provided they meet the specification listed in the Residents’ Handbook.
Do I need to buy a TV licence?
In the UK, if students watch or record programmes whilst they’re being shown on TV or live on an online TV service – on any device – they need to be covered by a TV licence. That applies to a TV, laptop, tablet, mobile phone, games console, digital box, DVD/VHS recorder or anything else.
Departing
Can I store my luggage over the summer holiday?
Lee Abbey does not offer storage facilities over the holidays for returning students. We encourage you to use LOVESPACE as a possible storage solution.
If things go wrong
What code of best practice does Lee Abbey sign up to?
Lee Abbey London is proud to be a member of the ANUK/UNIPOL National code of Standards for student accommodation providers – a Government-recognised code of best practice.
How do I make a complaint?
We have an established complaints procedure to follow, which ensures you receive a fair and satisfactory response.