Frequently Asked Questions

Information for Listers

I created an account to list my accommodation on the site, but did not receive an email to activate my account? What happened?
Some spam filters will direct the account activation email into your junk email box. Please check your junk email box to see if the email is there. The activation account email is safe to open. If you have checked your junk email box and the activation email is not there, please contact us at livinglocal@uws.edu.au

I have entered all my accommodation details but I can't see my listing on the site. Why?
New listings (if approved) will be uploaded to the site within 5 business days. 

When can I list a property?
Listings are accepted through the entire year, at any time. Peak demand is usually at the beginning of each semester. At the University of Western Sydney, semesters usually commence in February and July of each year, however you can find a full calendar of dates at UWS Important Dates.

What do I need to know about listing a property?
The University of Western Sydney does not inspect or view any properties listed on our Accommodation Service page. Due to this reason, we cannot provide any details or comment regarding the price for which your property should be listed.

For information regarding renting your property go to:

• The Office of Fair Trading: They are the governing body of the Residential Tenancies Act and have important information about being a landlord
• If you are offering accommodation in your own home, you need to decide whether you will make the tenant sign a lease or agreement. Please be aware that both tenants and landlords have rights and responsibilities, and it is important you are all aware of these
• Please take a look at the Office of Fair Trading website about Being a Landlord
• You are also required by law to provide your tenants with a copy of the Renting Guide 

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Information for Students

Before moving into a new place, it is important to make sure you think about what information you need from your landlord, agent or room mates.

Below are some examples of things you may want to include in a checklist:

About the Accommodation:

• When does it become available?
• What is the address?

Rent, Lease and Bond:

• How much is the rent per week?
• Does the weekly rent include utilities (water, phone, electricity, internet)?
• If not, how will the utilities bill be split with other tenants?
• Do I have to pay a bond and how much is it?
• Am I expected to pay rent in advance?
• How long is the lease for? What happens when the lease expires?
• How much notice do I have to give if I want to leave?

Location and Security:

• Is the property close to the University?
• Where is the nearest train or bus stop?
• How close is the grocery store?
• How safe is the area?
• Does the property have good locks?
• Is there somewhere to park my car/bike?

Furnishings:

• Is the property furnished?
• What will I need to purchase/bring with me when moving in?

Share House:

• How many other tenants live in the property?
• Which parts of the house are shared?
• Will my study be affected living with other people?

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More Information

For fact sheets and general information, please see:

• The Office of Fair Trading - Fact Sheets
• The Tenants Union of NSW
• The Share Housing Survival Guide
• The Tenants Rights Manual

For legal advice, please see:

• A community legal centre in your area
• Western Sydney Tentants Service

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