Terms and conditions
LICENCE TO OCCUPY STUDENT ACCOMMODATION: TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Londonist DMC Ltd (“Londonist”) is a limited company registered in England and Wales with a company number 08392889 and VAT registered number 345411128. Our registered office is at 5 Great James Street, London, WC1N 3DB.
These Terms and Conditions apply to student accommodation bookings made with Londonist DMC Ltd or through Londonist’s authorised agents. They are intended for acceptance online, by tick box, by written or electronic confirmation, by payment of any sum due, or by occupation of the Room, as applicable. They are not drafted as a signature document.These Terms and Conditions should be read together with the applicable Booking Details. Booking Details may be contained in a Londonist invoice, quotation, booking confirmation, agent confirmation, portal booking page, email confirmation, payment schedule, licence document, or any other written booking record issued or approved by Londonist.Where a Licensee signs a separate licence agreement, these Terms and Conditions also form part of that licence agreement. Where no separate licence agreement is signed, the Licensee accepts that these Terms and Conditions, together with the Booking Details, constitute the binding licence to occupy.
Acceptance of these Terms
By ticking the acceptance box, submitting a booking request, accepting a quote, paying any booking sum, confirming acceptance by email or other written communication, allowing an agent to confirm the booking, or occupying the Room, the Licensee confirms that they have read, understood and accepted these Terms and Conditions.Where a Guarantor is required or provided, the Guarantor will be bound only where they have accepted, signed, confirmed, guaranteed, paid, or otherwise agreed to guarantee or support the booking, including through any guarantor form, guarantee wording, email, payment, or other written confirmation accepted by Londonist.
Booking Specific Details
The following booking specific details are not repeated in these Terms and Conditions and shall be as set out in the Booking Details: Licensee details, Guarantor details if applicable, Property, Room type, Room number if allocated, Room description, Property address, invoice number, Licence Fee, Deposit if applicable, Licence Fee Payment Dates, Bedding and Service Fee if applicable, Additional Service Fees if applicable, Start Date and End Date.
1. Interpretation
1.1 The following definitions and rules of interpretation apply in this licence and these Terms and Conditions.
Academic Year: a year deemed to start from 31 August of the year immediately preceding the Start Date and ending on 31 August of the following year.
Agent: any authorised sales, booking, referral or intermediary agent through whom the Licensee makes or confirms a booking. Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, an Agent is not the provider of the accommodation and Londonist remains the Licensor and the contracting party entitled to enforce these Terms and Conditions.
Bedding and Service Fee: the fee, if applicable, for bedding packs, bathroom packs, customer services during stay, administration and related services, in the amount stated in the Booking Details.
Booking Details: the booking specific information confirmed by Londonist or an Agent, including the invoice, quotation, booking confirmation, agent confirmation, portal booking page, payment schedule, licence document, written booking record, email confirmation, or other booking information issued or approved by Londonist.
Booking Process: the process to be followed to make a valid booking and obtain a Licence to Occupy, as further detailed in clause 3.
Confirmation of Enrolment Letter: the letter or written confirmation which confirms that the Room or alternative accommodation has been secured and reserved for the Licensee. A Licence to Occupy is only granted when Londonist issues the Confirmation of Enrolment Letter after the Licensee has complied with the Booking Process, including clause 2.1 and clause 3, on time.
Common Parts: the areas in the Property provided by the Owner or residence for the benefit of occupiers, including shared kitchens, living areas, bathrooms where applicable, roads, paths, entrance halls, corridors, lifts, staircases, landings and other access areas designated from time to time by the Licensor, Owner or residence.
Competent Authority: any statutory undertaker, public authority, local authority, regulatory body, court, government department or any duly authorised officer of any of them.
Deposit: the deposit amount stated in the Booking Details, if applicable. Unless otherwise stated in the Booking Details, the Deposit may be used initially to freeze the price or hold the Room and may become non-refundable if the Licensee fails to complete the Booking Process on time. Upon the receipt of the Confirmation of Enrolment Letter, the Deposit is converted into a security deposit to reserve and protect the Property. It will be refunded to the account that paid the Deposit within 6 to 8 weeks after completion of the Deposit Refund Form at the end of the Licence Period, less any deductions permitted under these Terms and Conditions, unless otherwise stated in the Booking Details.
End Date: the date on which the Licence to Occupy ends, as set out in the Booking Details. The Licence automatically expires on the End Date and the Licensee has no right to remain in occupation beyond that date.
Financier: a person who makes payments on behalf of the Licensee or funds the Licensee’s accommodation and/or educational expenses.
Licence Agreement: the licence agreement constituted by these Terms and Conditions, the Booking Details, any signed licence agreement where applicable, and any other written terms agreed or approved by Londonist.
Licence Fee: the accommodation fee specified in the Booking Details.
Licence Fee Payment Dates: the dates on which the full amount or instalments of the Licence Fee become payable, as specified in the Booking Details.
Licence Period: the period from and including 4:00 pm on the Start Date until 10:00 am on the End Date, unless different times are stated in the Booking Details, residence rules or written check in/check out instructions. For check in/check out times and payment information, the Booking Details prevail.
Licence to Occupy: the Licensee’s personal right to occupy the Room or alternative accommodation in accordance with clause 2 and clause 3.
Licensee: the student or proposed occupier named in the Booking Details, who must be a full time or part time student enrolled in a university or accredited educational institution recognised by and in the United Kingdom, unless Londonist expressly agrees otherwise in writing.
Licensor: Londonist DMC Ltd, incorporated and registered in England and Wales with company number 08392889, VAT number 34541128, and registered office at 5 Great James Street, London WC1N 3DB.
Necessary Consents: all planning permissions and all other consents, licences, permissions, certificates, authorisations and approvals required by any Competent Authority for the Permitted Use.
Owner: any principal management entity, landlord, freeholder, leaseholder, residence operator or other person with legal or management rights over the Property, from whom Londonist has been licensed, leased, authorised or otherwise granted rights concerning the Room or Property.
Permitted Use: use of the Room for private residential student accommodation only, and not for any profession, trade, business, commercial or other use.
Property: the residence, building or accommodation site specified in the Booking Details, including the Room, Common Parts and relevant facilities.
Residence Rules: the rules, code of conduct, member rules, guest rules, safety rules, policies, charges and instructions issued by the Owner, residence reception team, property manager or other authorised residence staff from time to time. For the use, conduct, operation and management of the residence, the Residence Rules prevail where they concern residence use or operational matters.
Room: the room, studio, unit, bedspace or accommodation space designated for occupation by the Licensee, including its contents. The room number may be allocated on or before check in and may be changed in accordance with these Terms and Conditions.
Room Change Fee: the fee payable if the Licensee requests a room change, upgrade or booking change, as stated in these Terms and Conditions or the Booking Details.
Start Date: the date on which the Licence to Occupy starts, as stated in the Booking Details. If the Licensee has more than one Licence Period or booking in the Academic Year, the Start Date will be deemed to be the date of the initial booking for cancellation and termination assessment unless Londonist expressly agrees otherwise in writing.
Terms and Conditions: these Licence to Occupy Student Accommodation: Terms and Conditions as available on Londonist’s website and as amended or updated from time to time where legally permitted.
VAT: value added tax chargeable under the Value Added Tax Act 1994 and any similar replacement or additional tax.
1.2 Clause, schedule and paragraph headings shall not affect the interpretation of these Terms and Conditions.
1.3 A person includes a natural person, corporate or unincorporated body whether or not having separate legal personality.
1.4 Any schedule, Booking Details, invoice, quote, accepted booking page, residence rules or written booking confirmation referred to in these Terms and Conditions forms part of the Licence Agreement.
1.5 Unless the context otherwise requires, words in the singular include the plural and words in the plural include the singular.
1.6 Unless the context otherwise requires, a reference to one gender includes a reference to all genders.
1.7 A reference to laws in general is a reference to all applicable laws as amended, extended or re-enacted from time to time, including subordinate legislation, orders, notices, codes of practice and guidance.
1.8 Unless otherwise specified, a reference to a statute or statutory provision includes that statute or provision as amended, extended or re-enacted from time to time.
1.9 A reference to writing or written includes email and other electronic written communication.
1.10 Any obligation not to do something includes an obligation not to allow that thing to be done and to use reasonable endeavours to prevent that thing being done by another person.
1.11 References to clauses are to the clauses of these Terms and Conditions unless the context requires otherwise.
1.12 Any words following including, include, in particular, for example or similar expressions are illustrative and do not limit the preceding words.
1.13 A working day is any day which is not a Saturday, Sunday, bank holiday or public holiday in England.
2. Licence to Occupy and Licensor’s Obligations
2.1 Subject to clause 4 and clause 8, the Licensor permits the Licensee to occupy the Room or other accommodation allocated by Londonist for the Permitted Use during the Licence Period in common with the Licensor, the Owner and all others authorised by them. A Licence to Occupy is granted only after Londonist confirms the booking in writing, the Licensee has complied with the Booking Process, and all amounts due at that stage under the Booking Details have been paid. If no Deposit is required, the requirement to pay a Deposit shall not apply. If no separate licence agreement is signed, acceptance of these Terms and Conditions is sufficient to create the Licence Agreement.
2.2 The Licensee acknowledges that:(a) the Licensee occupies as a licensee and no relationship of landlord and tenant is created between the Licensor and the Licensee;(b) the purpose of the Licence is to provide residential accommodation while the Licensee undertakes a full time or part time course of study at an academic institution recognised by and in the UK, unless Londonist expressly agrees otherwise in writing. If student status changes after check in, the Licence Fee and all other applicable fees remain payable;(c) the Licensor, Owner and authorised staff retain general possession, control and management of the Property and no exclusive possession of any part of the Property, including the Room, is granted;(d) these Terms and Conditions do not create a tenancy, lease or right of exclusive possession or security of tenure under the Housing Act 1988 or any successor legislation;(e) the Licensee occupies the Room in common with the Licensor and other authorised occupiers, and the Licensor, Owner and residence staff may retain keys or access rights to all Rooms.2.3 The Licensor reserves for itself, the Owner and all parties authorised by them the following rights over the Property:(a) to retain control, possession and management of the Property and to prevent the Licensee from excluding the Licensor, Owner or authorised persons from the Property;(b) to treat the Licence to Occupy as personal to the Licensee and non-assignable;(c) without prejudice to clause 6 and clause 8, to inspect the Room where reasonable or necessary, with notice where practicable;(d) without prejudice to clause 8, to notify the Home Office or any UK Government body of the termination of the Licence Agreement howsoever caused where Londonist considers this necessary or appropriate;(e) to alter, restrict, suspend or regulate the use of the Common Parts and amenities from time to time;(f) to commence possession, debt recovery, injunction, damages, enforcement or other legal proceedings in the name of Londonist where Londonist considers this necessary to protect its rights, recover possession, recover sums due, enforce these Terms and Conditions, or comply with any agreement with an Owner or residence.
2.4 Provided that the Licensee complies with these Terms and Conditions and the Booking Details, the Licensor will use reasonable endeavours to allow the Licensee to use and occupy the Room during the Licence Period and will use reasonable endeavours to procure that the Owner will:(a) maintain the installations in the Property for the supply of water, gas and electricity as necessary for occupation;(b) maintain the structure of the Property including window frames and window glass; and(c) clean, maintain and provide heating and lighting to the Common Parts where the Owner or residence is responsible for doing so.
2.5 The Licensee acknowledges that the Licensor or Owner may withdraw, alter, limit or suspend services or amenities during certain times of the year or where considered necessary for good management, repairs, maintenance, alterations, safety, staffing, operational reasons, legal compliance, residence rules, or circumstances outside Londonist’s reasonable control.
2.6 The Licensee accepts that amenities and facilities such as gyms, cinemas, games rooms, terraces, gardens, common rooms, study spaces, social spaces or any amenity shown on the website or in marketing materials, other than the Room and essential parts required for occupation, are not material terms of the Licence Agreement unless expressly stated in the Booking Details. Londonist shall not be liable for costs, losses or damages arising from withdrawal, alteration or suspension of such amenity services in accordance with clause 2.5.
2.7 The Licensor reserves the right at any time to allocate or reallocate the Licensee to another room within the same or a comparable residence, or to require temporary or permanent relocation for operational, management, welfare, maintenance, availability, overbooking, safety, compliance or residence reasons, without creating a tenancy or security of tenure. The Licensee will occupy the alternative accommodation on the same terms as these Terms and Conditions and the Booking Details, subject to any written variation agreed by Londonist.
2.8 Should the Licensee fail to settle any outstanding amount within 5 days following a reminder notice sent by email after the relevant due date, the Licensor may commence legal possession, debt recovery or other legal proceedings without any additional notice where permitted by law. The Licensee will be responsible for all reasonable and proper associated legal, debt recovery and enforcement expenses.
3. Booking Process
3.1 The Licensee agrees and undertakes to follow the Booking Process set out below:
(a) to pay the Licence Fee and all other amounts payable without deduction in advance on the Licence Fee Payment Dates or other dates stated in the Booking Details;
(b) to pay the Deposit immediately upon accepting the quote if a Deposit is required in the Booking Details;
(c) to pay the first instalment or other initial payment immediately upon accepting the quote where required by the Booking Details;
(d) time is of the essence for all payment dates and time periods. Failure to make timely payment of any instalment may result in the immediate revocation of any instalment payment option, and the entire unpaid Licence Fee and all other outstanding sums shall become immediately due and payable without further notice or demand;
(e) the Room is secured only when the required payments, required documents, acceptance of these Terms and Conditions and written confirmation by Londonist have been completed on time. Until these conditions are met, Londonist gives no guarantee that the Room, room type, price, residence or dates will remain available;
(f) to read, understand and accept these Terms and Conditions, and to comply with all Residence Rules. Residence Rules provided or applied by the residence reception team, Owner or property manager prevail over these Terms and Conditions for use, conduct, safety, facilities, guest access and residence operational matters;
(g) to pay the Bedding and Service Fee and any Additional Service Fees, if applicable, as stated in the Booking Details;
(h) to provide Londonist with satisfactory evidence of identity and evidence that the Licensee is undertaking a full time or part time course of study at an academic institution recognised by and in the UK, including a copy of the Licensee’s passport or identity document, university letter, CAS number where applicable, and other evidence requested by Londonist, within 48 hours of accepting the quote unless a different deadline is stated in the Booking Details;
(i) to provide any further information reasonably requested by Londonist, including proof of address, contact details for next of kin, financier, agent or guarantor, payment evidence and other documents needed for administration, council tax, residence compliance, government reporting, debt recovery, safeguarding or legal compliance;
(j) to notify Londonist promptly if the Licensee ceases to undertake a full time or part time course of study during the Licence Period;
(k) to inform Londonist in writing at least 14 days before the Start Date of any disability or health related condition for which reasonable adjustments may be needed.
4. Licensee's Obligations
4.1 The Licensee agrees and undertakes:(a) to keep the Property clean, tidy and clear of rubbish and maintain the Room and any contents in the same condition as at the Start Date, fair wear and tear excepted;(b) to immediately notify Londonist or the residence team of any issue, defect, damage, maintenance problem, safety concern or other problem with the Property;(c) not to use the Property other than for the Permitted Use;(d) not to make any alteration, addition, decoration, installation or modification to the Room or Property without prior written consent;(e) not to display any advertisement, signboard, nameplate, inscription, flag, banner, placard, poster, sign or notice at the Property without prior written consent;(f) not to remove any contents from the Room or Common Parts and to maintain the contents of the Room in the condition they were in at the Start Date;(g) not to do or permit anything at the Property which is illegal or which may be or become a nuisance, annoyance, inconvenience or disturbance to Londonist, the Owner, staff, other occupiers or neighbouring occupiers;(h) not to cause or permit damage to the Property, neighbouring property, or property of the owners or occupiers of the Property or neighbouring property;(i) to pay Londonist on demand a fair and reasonable proportion of costs incurred in repairing damage to the Room, Common Parts or Property and replacing contents where damage is caused by the Licensee or the Licensee’s guests;(j) not to obstruct the Common Parts, make them dirty or untidy, or leave rubbish on them;(k) not to apply for planning permission or any licence in respect of the Room or Property;(l) not to do anything that will or might breach any Necessary Consents or invalidate or increase the cost of any insurance maintained by Londonist, the Owner or residence;(m) to observe all rules, regulations, policies and instructions issued by Londonist, the Owner, residence reception team or property manager from time to time;(n) to leave the Room and Property in a clean and tidy condition and remove all furniture, equipment and belongings at the end of the Licence Period;(o) to indemnify Londonist and keep Londonist indemnified against all losses, claims, demands, actions, proceedings, damages, costs, expenses or other liability arising from the Licence Agreement, breach of clause 4, or exercise of rights granted by clause 2;(p) not to do anything in relation to the Property that would or might cause Londonist to breach any licence, lease, management agreement, nomination agreement or other agreement with the Owner or residence;(q) to remove all belongings before the End Date. Belongings left in the Room or Common Parts are left at the Licensee’s own risk and may be disposed of, destroyed or stored by Londonist or the residence without liability, subject to applicable law;(r) to pay interest on overdue Licence Fee or other payments at a rate equal to 4 per cent per annum above the base rate of Barclays Bank PLC from time to time, accruing daily from the due date until payment is received and payable immediately on demand;(s) to ensure payments are made on or before the due date and to acknowledge that if payment is not made on time, all invoice sums and all unpaid amounts may become due and payable immediately without further notice;(t) to accept that, where the Licensee fails to make payment, Londonist may pass the file to a debt collection agency, solicitor or enforcement agent and the Licensee shall bear all reasonable and proper costs, expenses, legal costs and VAT incurred by Londonist in recovering outstanding funds;(u) to authorise Londonist to withhold from the Deposit or any refund any amounts due for damages, outstanding payments, cleaning, missing items, residence charges, late check out, storage, bank charges or breach of these Terms and Conditions;(v) to vacate the Room by 10:00 am on the End Date unless a different check out time is stated in the Booking Details, residence rules or written check out instructions. Any occupation beyond check out time without written agreement may incur a charge of £50 per hour or such other amount as stated in the Booking Details or Residence Rules;(w) to accept that Londonist is not responsible for personal possessions left in the Room or Common Parts after check out and that the Licensee is responsible for removal, disposal and storage costs;(x) to obtain suitable insurance for personal belongings kept in the Room and to accept sole responsibility for protecting personal property against loss or damage;(y) to obtain a television licence for the Room if required;(z) to accept that modifications to the booking, including changes to the Licence Period, location, Room, dates or payment terms, may only be made by written agreement, updated Booking Details, updated invoice, new quote, or other written confirmation accepted by Londonist. All other terms remain applicable to the amended booking;(aa) where a Guarantor is applicable, to acknowledge that the Guarantor may be jointly and severally liable for obligations, damages, penalties, charges and costs arising from breach of the Licence Agreement;(ab) to notify Londonist in writing of any absence from the Room exceeding three consecutive days.
4.2 The Licensee agrees to occupy the Room and Common Parts for personal residential purposes only and not to carry on any profession, trade, business or other non-residential use.
4.3 The Licence is personal to the Licensee. The Licensee must be over the age of 18 on or before check in, unless Londonist expressly agrees otherwise in writing. No minors, children or persons under 18 may reside in the Property unless Londonist expressly agrees otherwise in writing. If Londonist requires any additional agreement, confirmation or consent and it is not provided, Londonist may cancel the booking and payments made may become non-refundable in accordance with these Terms and Conditions and the Booking Details.
4.4 The Licensee agrees that in respect of the Room or Property they may not:(a) cause any noise which can be heard outside the Room or Common Parts and which causes or may cause disturbance;(b) keep, use, supply or possess drugs or substances prohibited by law;(c) smoke or vape in the Room, Property or Common Parts other than in a designated outdoor smoking area where permitted;(d) keep or use firearms, knives other than ordinary kitchen knives, or weapons of any kind;(e) harass, threaten, abuse, discriminate against, intimidate or assault other occupiers, staff, contractors, guests or neighbours;(f) tamper with fire prevention, alarm, safety, access control, CCTV or security systems;(g) use designated fire exits except for emergency exit;(h) glue, stick, nail, screw, fix or otherwise attach anything to the exterior or interior of the Room or Property without written consent;(i) keep, store or use gas heaters, oil heaters, candles, incense, dangerous appliances or other prohibited items;(j) keep pets or animals in the Property or Common Parts unless permitted by Londonist and the Owner in writing.
4.5 The Licensee will ensure that any guest invited to the Property:(a) checks in to the Property by providing identity documents where required and checks out on departure;(b) is accompanied by the Licensee at all times unless the Residence Rules state otherwise; and(c) is aged 18 years or over unless Londonist and the residence expressly permit otherwise in writing.
4.6 Room Change:(a) The Licensee may request a transfer to reasonably comparable alternative accommodation or an upgrade. Londonist may accept or reject such request in its absolute discretion, subject to payment of a Room Change Fee of £100 exclusive of VAT, or such other amount stated in the Booking Details, together with any price difference for the new Room.(b) In case of necessity, including operational, management, maintenance, welfare, availability, overbooking, safety or compliance reasons, Londonist may require the Licensee to transfer to reasonably comparable alternative accommodation within the same residence or to other reasonable alternative accommodation in London.(c) Clauses 4.6(a) and 4.6(b) are subject to room availability at the relevant time.
5. Guarantor Obligations
5.1 This clause 5 applies only where a Guarantor is named, provided, accepted, required, signs, confirms, pays, guarantees or otherwise agrees to act as guarantor in connection with the booking. The Guarantor agrees, in consideration of Londonist entering into or continuing the Licence Agreement at the request of the Guarantor or Licensee, to provide the guarantee and be jointly and severally liable with the Licensee for the full and punctual performance of all obligations under the Licence Agreement, including:(a) payment of the Licence Fee and any other fees, charges, damages, interest or costs due;(b) compliance with the Licensee’s obligations under clause 4; and(c) any liability arising from damage, loss, non-payment, overstay or breach by the Licensee.
5.2 The Guarantor further agrees, as a separate and primary obligation, to indemnify Londonist against all losses, costs, expenses, damages or liabilities suffered or incurred by Londonist arising out of or in connection with any breach by the Licensee of the Licence Agreement.
5.3 The Guarantor’s liability:(a) continues for the duration of the Licence Period and until all obligations and liabilities of the Licensee have been fully performed and discharged;(b) is not affected by any variation, renewal, extension, waiver, indulgence, payment plan, room change, invoice update or booking change granted by Londonist to the Licensee;(c) remains enforceable notwithstanding bankruptcy, incapacity or death of the Licensee or any failure or delay by Londonist to enforce its rights; and(d) may be enforced by Londonist without first pursuing the Licensee.
5.4 The Guarantor acknowledges that they have read and understood the Licence Agreement and have had the opportunity to seek independent legal advice before becoming bound.
5.5 Londonist may correspond directly with the Guarantor concerning any matter arising under the Licence Agreement, including breach, arrears, damage, welfare, abandonment, non-payment and enforcement.
5.6 Londonist may, at its sole discretion, waive the requirement for a Guarantor or accept full upfront payment from the Licensee in lieu of a guarantee.
5.7 Each of the Licensee and the Guarantor represents and warrants that they are not:(a) listed on any sanctions list administered by the United Kingdom, including HM Treasury, the United States, including OFAC, the European Union, or the United Nations;(b) owned or controlled by, or acting on behalf of, any person on such sanctions list; or(c) located in, organised under the laws of, or ordinarily resident in, any country or territory subject to comprehensive sanctions.Londonist may terminate the Licence Agreement with immediate effect if either the Licensee or Guarantor is found to be in breach of clause 5.7. The Licensee and Guarantor must promptly notify Londonist if they become aware of any change in their status relating to clause 5.7.
6. Accessing the Room
6.1 The Licensee acknowledges that the Licensor, Owner and residence staff retain possession and control of the Room and Residence, and may enter the Room at any time for management, safety, operational, maintenance, compliance, residence or welfare purposes. Where practicable, reasonable prior notice will be given, but notice is not required where Londonist, the Owner or residence considers access necessary or appropriate. Access may be required for, among other things:(a) carrying out repairs in response to a request;(b) undertaking planned maintenance;(c) carrying out emergency repairs;(d) assessing the accommodation for planned improvements;(e) carrying out risk assessments;(f) complying with health and safety legislation;(g) conducting open day visits or viewings permitted under Residence Rules;(h) undertaking routine housekeeping tasks;(i) contacting licensees urgently;(j) investigating complaints;(k) medical emergency or welfare concern;(l) suspicion of criminal activity or serious breach;(m) where there is a threat to life, safety or property, including removing items covering smoke detectors or obstructing safety systems.
6.2 Nothing in this clause limits the existing and separate powers of the police, emergency services, local authority or other Competent Authority to enter the Room under applicable law.
7. Cancellation
7.1 The Licensee may, by notice in writing to Londonist, cancel the Licence Agreement up to six weeks before the Start Date. In such case the Licensee shall remain liable to pay the following charges:(a) the Bedding and Service Fee, if applicable;(b) the Deposit, if applicable, which shall become non-refundable.
7.2 The Licensee may, by notice in writing to Londonist, cancel the Licence Agreement in the 6 week period immediately before the Start Date. In such case the Licensee shall remain liable to pay the following charges:(a) the Bedding and Service Fee, if applicable;(b) the Deposit, if applicable, which shall become non-refundable;(c) the amount equal to the 6 week period of the Licence Fee.
7.3 Visa Refusal: At least 6 weeks before the Start Date, the Licensee may, on receipt of notice from the British Embassy, UKVI or other relevant UK visa authority that the Licensee’s visa application to enable entry to the UK has been refused, cancel the Licence Agreement by notice in writing to Londonist, provided that the Licensee also provides Londonist with a copy of the refusal letter within 7 days of the date of issue. In such case the Licensee shall remain liable for the Deposit, if applicable.(a) In any other case concerning visa refusal, visa delay, late decision, administrative delay, travel delay, missed flight, late arrival, delayed university enrolment, or related circumstances, clause 7.1, clause 7.2 or clause 7.5 applies as relevant, unless Londonist expressly agrees otherwise in writing.
7.4 Londonist may cancel the Licence Agreement on notice in writing to the Licensee before the Start Date. In such case all fees previously paid under the Licence Agreement shall be repaid to the Licensee, save for any sums lawfully deductible or paid for services already provided where applicable.
7.5 If the Licensee cancels the Licence Agreement after the Start Date, the Licensee shall remain liable to pay:(a) the Licence Fee;(b) the Bedding and Service Fee, if applicable;(c) Other Services and Additional Service Fees, if applicable.
8. Termination
8.1 This Licence shall end on the earliest of:(a) notice in writing being given in accordance with clause 7;(b) the End Date;(c) the Licensee failing to make the payments set out in clause 3.1, the Booking Details or any invoice on their due dates;(d) the expiry of not less than 48 hours’ notice given by Londonist to the Licensee following breach of any Licensee obligation;(e) the expiry of not less than 48 hours’ notice given by Londonist to the Licensee following the Licensee providing notice pursuant to clause 7 or ceasing to undertake a full time or part time course of study recognised by Londonist during the Licence Period, unless Londonist agrees otherwise in writing; or(f) the expiry of not less than 48 hours’ notice given by Londonist to the Licensee on breach of any Licensee obligation.
8.2 Termination of the Licence shall not affect the rights of either party in connection with any breach or liability that existed at or before the date of termination.
8.3 If the Licence terminates pursuant to clause 8.1(c), 8.1(e) or 8.1(f), the full balance of the Licence Fee and all outstanding sums shall be due and payable immediately by the Licensee.
8.4 Unless otherwise stated in the Licence Agreement, in the case of termination the Licensee shall be liable to pay:(a) the Licence Fee;(b) the Bedding and Service Fee, if applicable;(c) all other sums, fees, costs, damages, charges and expenses due under the Licence Agreement.
9. Other Services and Council Tax
9.1 The Licensee is solely responsible for informing the relevant council of their occupancy of the Property and for paying all council tax and other taxes related to their stay in the Room and Property, unless an exemption applies and is accepted by the relevant council. This includes:(a) settling all tax obligations directly with the relevant authorities;(b) indemnifying Londonist against any tax related claims, costs or penalties arising from the Licensee’s non-compliance;(c) providing Londonist with proof of tax payment or exemption upon request;(d) paying any additional charges, costs or losses resulting from failure to comply with these obligations.
9.2 Students attending a full time course that lasts at least one academic year, requires at least 24 weeks’ attendance each year, and involves a minimum of 21 hours’ study per week may be exempt from council tax, subject to council rules. The Licensee agrees that:(a) Londonist may request further information at any time regarding university course details, student status and council tax status;(b) the Licensee must provide such information promptly and in any event within 3 business days;(c) Londonist is not liable to pay council tax or other applicable tax due to failure by the Licensee to submit documents or evidence on time; and(d) the Licensee shall indemnify Londonist for council tax or related sums arising from the Licensee’s occupancy, status, failure to notify, failure to provide documents or failure to obtain exemption.
9.3 Any sums payable by the Licensee must be paid on or before the due date. In the event of non-payment, daily interest shall accrue at the rate specified in clause 4.1(r) from the date payment becomes overdue until actual payment. The outstanding amount and accrued interest shall become immediately payable on demand.
10. Subletting
10.1 In accordance with clause 2.3(b), the Licence Agreement is personal to the Licensee and is not assignable. The Licensee agrees not to assign, transfer, sublet, charge, share possession or share occupation of the Room under any circumstances.
10.2 If the Licensee assigns, transfers, sublets, shares or otherwise permits a third party to occupy the Room, the Licensee acknowledges that this is a material breach of the Licence Agreement. Londonist may terminate access, seek possession, recover the Room, and the Licensee shall remain liable for the remainder of the Licence Period and for all costs, damages, fees and legal costs incurred in restoring possession and enforcing the Licence Agreement.
11. Transfer of Tenancy
11.1 This clause 11 relates to clause 10.1. The use of the expression Transfer of Tenancy does not create a tenancy and is used only to preserve alignment with Londonist’s existing licence numbering and terminology.
11.2 Subject to clause 8, if the Licensee wishes to be released from the Licence Agreement, the Licensee may request permission to find a replacement licensee to take over the remainder of the Licence Period. Londonist may reject the request if the replacement is not suitable, does not meet Londonist’s requirements, does not pass administrative checks, does not satisfy student status requirements, does not accept the applicable terms, or is not able to pay the remaining Licence Fee and applicable fees in advance. It is the Licensee’s responsibility to find a replacement. Londonist has sole discretion whether to accept the replacement.
11.3 If Londonist accepts the replacement, the Licensee shall pay an administration fee of £100 or such other amount stated in the Booking Details to process the change.
11.4 The Licensee may find only one replacement licensee per booking. The replacement must meet the conditions required under the Licence Agreement and the remaining payments must be made upfront to Londonist unless Londonist agrees otherwise in writing. Any decision to release the Licensee is made by Londonist in its sole discretion on a case by case basis. Requests for multiple replacement licensees for one Licence will be rejected.
12. Bank Charges and Payments
12.1 The Licensee agrees to bear all bank charges associated with transactions under the Licence Agreement, including charges incurred by the Licensee’s bank, Londonist’s bank and intermediary banks. This includes payments made to the Licensee by Londonist, including refunds of deposits or overpayments. For international payments, Londonist’s obligation is limited to releasing the net amount of the refund after deducting applicable bank charges. All bank charges shall be at the Licensee’s expense.
12.2 Any payment or refund due to the Licensee, including the Deposit, Licence Fee adjustment or other refundable sum, will be processed within 6 to 8 weeks from the date Londonist confirms in writing that the Licensee is eligible for a refund, subject to the Licensee providing the required refund form, bank details, proof of account ownership and any other requested information.
13. Notices
13.1 Each of the Licensee and, where applicable, the Guarantor confirms that the residential address and email address provided in the Booking Details or otherwise most recently provided to Londonist shall be their legal address and email address for service of all notices and communications, including legal proceedings, under or in connection with the Licence Agreement, unless updated in writing under this clause.
13.2 Any notice given under the Licence Agreement shall be in writing and delivered:(a) by hand;(b) by pre-paid first-class post or other next working day delivery service; or(c) by email,to the relevant party at:(i) Londonist’s address: 5 Great James Street, London, WC1N 3DB, or by email to legal@londonist.co.uk;(ii) the Licensee’s residential address and email address as set out in the Booking Details or most recently provided to Londonist;(iii) the Guarantor’s residential address and email address as set out in the Booking Details or most recently provided to Londonist, where applicable.
13.3 A notice shall be deemed to have been received:(a) if delivered by hand, at the time the notice is left at the proper address;(b) if sent by pre-paid first-class post or next working day delivery service, at 9:00 am on the second working day after posting;(c) if sent by email, at 10:00 am on the next working day after transmission, except emergency maintenance, welfare or safety emails, which shall be deemed received 60 minutes after being sent.
13.4 The Licensee and, where applicable, the Guarantor must notify Londonist in writing immediately and no later than two business days after any change to their residential address or email address. If either fails to do so, any notice sent to the most recently provided address or email shall be deemed valid and effective.
13.5 This clause applies to the service of proceedings or other documents in any legal action, arbitration or other method of dispute resolution only to the extent permitted by applicable law, including the Civil Procedure Rules. The Licensee and Guarantor each irrevocably agree that their most recently provided UK residential address, as notified to Londonist, constitutes a valid address for service for the purposes of Part 6 of the Civil Procedure Rules where legally permitted. Londonist shall not be required to take additional steps to trace the Licensee or Guarantor for service of proceedings where such address has been provided. Failure to notify a change of address within two business days shall not invalidate service effected at the last known address.
13.6 Upon request by Londonist at any time before, during or after the Licence Period, the Licensee and/or Guarantor shall provide their most recent residential address in writing together with satisfactory proof of address, such as a utility bill, bank statement or government-issued document dated within the last three months, within three business days. Failure to provide such information and documentation within the required timeframe shall constitute a material breach, entitling Londonist to pursue available remedies, including legal proceedings and recovery of associated costs.
14. No Warranties for Use or Condition
14.1 The Licensor gives no warranty that the Property possesses the Necessary Consents for the Permitted Use, except to the extent such warranty cannot lawfully be excluded.
14.2 The Licensor gives no warranty that the Property is physically fit for any particular purpose specified by the Licensee, except to the extent such warranty cannot lawfully be excluded.
14.3 The Licensee acknowledges that they do not rely on, and shall have no remedies in respect of, any representation or warranty that may have been made by or on behalf of Londonist before acceptance of the Licence Agreement as to any matters mentioned in clause 14.1 or clause 14.2, except where liability cannot lawfully be excluded. Website images, floor plans, layouts, views, videos, marketing descriptions, amenities, room examples and residence information are illustrative unless expressly incorporated into the Booking Details.
14.4 Nothing in this clause limits or excludes liability for fraud or any other liability which cannot lawfully be limited or excluded.
15. Limitation of Licensor's Liability
15.1 Subject to clause 15.2, the Licensor is not liable for:(a) the death of or injury to the Licensee, their guests or invitees to the Property;(b) damage to any property of the Licensee, their guests or invitees; or(c) losses, claims, demands, actions, proceedings, damages, costs or expenses incurred by the Licensee, guests or invitees in the exercise or purported exercise of the rights granted by clause 2.
15.2 Nothing in clause 15.1 shall limit or exclude the Licensor’s liability for:(a) death or personal injury caused by negligence of the Licensor or its employees or agents;(b) fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation; or(c) any matter in respect of which it would be unlawful for the Licensor to exclude or restrict liability.
16. Data Processing and Sharing
16.1 The Licensee acknowledges and agrees that Londonist may process and share data or information regarding the Licensee as necessary to facilitate the provision, administration, enforcement and management of accommodation services under the Licence Agreement. This may include sharing information with the Owner, residence operator, Agent, university, council, government bodies, guarantor, financier, next of kin, debt collection agency, solicitor, contractor, service provider, cleaning provider, airport transfer provider, additional pack provider or other relevant third party.
16.2 The Licensee authorises the transfer and processing of their data where Londonist considers this necessary for accommodation services, legal compliance, residence management, payment administration, welfare, safety, council tax, debt recovery, enforcement, complaints, dispute handling or related purposes. Londonist will process personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws in the United Kingdom, including UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, and any applicable Londonist privacy policy.
16.3 The purpose of such data processing and sharing is to ensure effective management of the Licence to Occupy, including payment administration, legal compliance, provision of services, safeguarding, welfare, safety, enforcement and facilitation of the Licensee’s occupancy experience.
16.4 The Licensee confirms that they have authority to provide the contact details of the Guarantor, Agent, next of kin, financier or other third parties listed in connection with the booking, and authorises Londonist to contact such individuals or entities in relation to any matter concerning the Licence Agreement, including emergencies, welfare, arrears, payment collection, breach and enforcement. The Licensee further authorises Londonist to disclose relevant information to debt collection agencies, service providers, contractors, solicitors or other third parties engaged in connection with administration or enforcement of the Licence Agreement.
17. No Set Off by Licensee
17.1 All amounts due from the Licensee to Londonist shall be paid in full without set off, counterclaim, deduction or withholding, other than any deduction or withholding of tax required by law or as expressly agreed in writing by Londonist.
18. Severance
18.1 If any provision or part provision of the Licence Agreement is or becomes invalid, illegal or unenforceable, it shall be deemed deleted, but this shall not affect the validity and enforceability of the rest of the Licence Agreement.
18.2 If any provision or part provision is deemed deleted under clause 18.1, the parties shall negotiate in good faith to agree a replacement provision that, to the greatest extent possible, achieves the intended commercial result of the original provision.
19. Third Party Rights
19.1 A person who is not a party to the Licence Agreement shall not have any rights under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 to enforce any term of the Licence Agreement, except that the Owner, residence operator, property manager, Agent and their employees, contractors and representatives may rely on any provision intended to protect or benefit them, including clauses concerning access, conduct, residence rules, indemnity, data sharing, limitation of liability and enforcement, where legally permitted.
20. Governing Law
20.1 The Licence Agreement and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with it or its subject matter or formation, including non-contractual disputes or claims, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the law of England and Wales.
21. Jurisdiction
21.1 Each party irrevocably agrees that the courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with the Licence Agreement or its subject matter or formation, including non-contractual disputes or claims.
Order of Priority
For payment dates, payment amounts, initial sums due, check in time, check out time, room type, residence, stay dates and other booking specific terms, the Booking Details prevail. For general occupancy, cancellation, termination, conduct, enforcement, payment consequences, liability, access, no tenancy, data processing and legal terms, these Terms and Conditions prevail. For use of the residence, operational rules, safety, guest access, behaviour, facilities, common areas, residence charges and local residence procedures, the Residence Rules prevail. Where a signed licence agreement also exists, it should be read consistently with these Terms and Conditions and the Booking Details. Londonist may determine the appropriate interpretation where documents can reasonably be read together.
No Signature Required
These Terms and Conditions are intended to be accepted electronically or by conduct. No signature block is required. Acceptance may be evidenced by ticking a box, accepting a quote, paying any sum due, confirming the booking in writing, authorising an Agent to proceed, receiving or relying on a Confirmation of Enrolment Letter, or occupying the Room.