FAQs
Q. Can families apply for key worker accommodation?
No, unfortunately at the moment we only have accommodation for single key workers
Q. How long will I be on the waiting list?
| 1 & 3 bed: | Minimum 18 to 24 months from date of application |
| Single en suite rooms: | Mimimum 6 months from date of application |
| Single shared rooms in house: | No waiting time |
Q. How do I get more information about my eligibility for accommodation? See the About Ducane page About Ducane page on this web site. This gives information on eligibility and types of accommodation that we offer.
Q. How much are the rents?
The rents below are per week from January 2009:
Du Cane Road properties 1 and 3 beds
Street properties- shared houses
| Property | Details | Per week rent for January 2010 | What's included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single bedsit (Vellacott) | Student only | £101 pw | excluding electricity |
| Couple 1 bed flat | Student only | £117 pw | excluding electricity |
| Family 3 bed flat | Student only | £145 pw | excluding electricity |
| Single room in street property | Student & Staff only | £89 - £130 pw | inclusive of bills - electricity, gas, hot water and council tax where applicable |
Q. Where can I get an application form?
Imperial College London, Ducane Housing Association office or go to Application Forms, click Eligibility & Applications and follow instructions.
Q. What documentation do I need to complete my application?
Your college has to verify and sign your application form before we will accept it.
Q. Do I need to contact my college?
Yes, because they must verify and sign your application form before we will accept it.
Q. How much notice do I have to give at the end of my tenancy?
4 weeks in writing
Q. What will be deducted from my deposit at the end of my tenancy?
Any rent, electricity (where applicable), cleaning or other charges outstanding
Q. Will I be charged if my flat or rooms needs a lot of redecoration or cleaning?
Yes, we will pre-inspect your property before you leave.
TENANTS
Q. Does my tenancy end when my course finishes if I am a student?
Yes, but you should negotiate with the Housing Services Manager (HSM) if you need a while longer for writing up your thesis.
Q. How can I get my heating to work best?
See the instruction leaflet issued to you when you move in (copies available in the office) or contact the office, who will arrange for one of the maintenance team to visit your property, who will go through the procedures with you
Q. What happens if my sink gets blocked?
You should try to unblock it with proprietary products available from your supermarket. If problem persists, contact the office and report for maintenance to deal with. If you persistently put grease or fat down your sink causing blockages, you will be charged for clearing your sink.
Q. Does the Out of Hours repairs service cost anything?
Yes, if used inappropriately, i.e. for non-emergencies. Please see our leaflet on emergencies indicating exactly what constitutes an emergency. Alternatively click here to read the repairs section of our tenants handbook.
Q. What will it cost me if I get locked out of my flat /room?
At present £40 will be charged for out of office hours. This is being reviewed and may be increased shortly
Q. Where can I see more about my tenancy and flat /room?
From your tenancy agreement, contact the Housing Services Manager, Doreen Carter
Q. How can I get a parking space?
Contact the office at Ducane Housing Association - there is a waiting list at present
Q. Do I have a tenant representative on the Board of Ducane HA?
Details to follow soon.
Q. When is the rent due?
On the first of the month in advance
Q. What happens if I don't pay my rent?
You are encouraged to come and discuss with the Housing Services Manager. If arrears are not paid, a Notice to Quit will be issued and court proceedings may be taken against you, resulting in your losing your home. It is important to discuss any financial difficulties you may have with the Housing Services Manager at the earliest opportunity.
Q. What should I do to help Ducane keep down the incidence of rats and mice?
By keeping food such as rice, pasta, flour, etc, in plastic containers at all times. Do not leave any food out on surfaces or floors. Always keep your flat clean and free from debris. Any rubbish, not just food, will attract vermin. Take particular care around the communal bins, do not throw rubbish on the floor of the bin stores.
Q. How do I help Ducane keep its running costs down?
By taking proper care of your property and being responsible. This includes, keeping it clean and tidy and reporting any repairs promptly, before the repair becomes a problem. Minimise condensation be keeping your flat well ventilated, take care of your furniture and fixtures and fittings. Try to leave your flat in the condition in which you found it.