Household
Council tax exemption
Students enrolled on a full-time programme do not have to pay council tax. However, you circumstances might be different if you live in a shared house where you are not all students, for further details see Directgov . You can pick up a council tax certificate confirming your student status from the Registry on the 2nd floor of McKenzie House on Newport Road. You will need to provide the local council with this form.
Housing advice
The Advice and Guidance team based at the Student Support Centre, 50 Park Place will be able to advise you on housing and tenant-related issues. There a number of helpful resources in their website or alternatively you can contact an adviser to discuss your circumstances.
Insurance
Before signing up for an insurance policy to cover your valuables discuss this with your parents. If they have a policy in place, you might be already covered under theirs if it’s deemed that you are away from the household temporarily.
Household bills
Price comparison sites will help you gage if you are getting a good deal or if you should consider switching providers. Always check for exit fees if you are thinking of changing suppliers mid contract. Always take a photo of your meters the day you move in, so you have your own records and contact the suppliers yourself when you have moved out. Household bills should be shared amongst housemates so they are not in one persons name. The following gas , electric and water guides offer further tips on how you could reduce your bills.
Free Energy assessment
There are a number of organisations and charities offering free energy assessments and free advice on household energy usage. This is part of an initiative to help reduce energy waste in Wales; make your home more efficient and help reduce your bills.
Money back from your TV license
If you go back and live at your parents home during the summer period, you can claim back part of your TV license. Click here for further information.
Money saving snippet:
Before you pay for anything, always ask if the retailer can give you student discount, more business will knock a percentage off the price if you’re a student then those who actually advertise. So you never know if you don’t ask!