Residence Guide

Everything you need to know about day-to-day life in your accommodation, from rent payments and keys to fire safety and getting around Edinburgh.

All residents have access to the UoE Living App once their accommodation offer have been accepted. This is a closed community space where you can chat with other residents in your accommodation and community, register for Res Life events, and stay up to date with day-to-day news. 

Your RA holds drop-in hours each evening. Check your noticeboard or welcome letter for times and location. For anything urgent outside RA hours, contact the ACE Response Team on 0131 651 2094. 

Money & Admin

Your rent is your responsibility alone. You are not liable for your flatmates' payments, and they are not liable for yours. 

Unless you paid upfront, your rent is collected automatically by Direct Debit or automatic card payment on the 1st of each month (or the nearest working day). You agreed to this when you signed your contract. 

If you are experiencing financial difficulties, contact the Rent Payment Department through the Accommodation Support Form as soon as possible, and at least 10 working days before your next payment is due. 


For international students 

It can take up to three or four weeks after arriving in the UK to open a bank account. To open one, you will need: your confirmed UK address (printable from MyEd after check-in), your passport, your visa (if applicable), and your unconditional letter of acceptance. 

You will need to set up an automatic card payment before you arrive. Once your UK account is open, you can switch this to a Direct Debit if preferred.

For UK students 

Use your existing bank account to set up a Direct Debit so your rent is collected automatically each month. (Savings accounts and Under 18 accounts will not allow Direct Debits to be taken – please check with your bank if you are unsure).


University of Edinburgh accommodation 

You are automatically covered by contents insurance from Howden for Students from the date you activate your account. Visit the Howden for Students webpage or download the app (iOS or Android) to activate. 

Private provider accommodation 

Your insurance provider varies by site. Contact the property team at reception for more information.


There are heavy penalties for failing to have a Television licence. The law says you need to be covered by a TV Licence to:

  • watch or record programmes as they’re being shown on TV, on any channel
  • watch or stream programmes live on an online TV service (such as ITV Hub, All 4, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Sky Go, etc.)
  • download or watch any BBC programmes on iPlayer.

This applies to any device you use, including a TV, desktop computer, laptop, mobile phone, tablet, games console, digital box or DVD/VHS recorder. If you are unsure about whether you need a TV licence for your flat TV, please ask the site Operations Manager in the first instance.

Please note that it is your responsibility to pay for the licence, and the fines for noncompliance with the law are extremely heavy. Licences and information on methods of payment are available from Post Offices.


Please complete the online inventory as this is your record of the condition of the room when you moved in. Please do not report repairs on the inventory, but report those using the information below.

If you are staying at a site operated by one of our accommodation partners you should also complete either an electronic or paper inventory.


Getting around

Edinburgh has a comprehensive bus network, largely run by Lothian Buses. The University also operates a shuttle bus service. If you are under 22, a Young Scot Card gives you free travel.


Cycling is one of the cheapest and healthiest ways to get around. Edinburgh has a good network of on- and off-road routes. Secure bike storage is available at most sites. Register your bike via the Accommodation Support Form and the property team will send you a code. Bikes must not be stored in your bedroom, flat, stairwell, or landing as this is a fire hazard. Any bike found there will be removed.


Parking at our sites is extremely limited and reserved for blue badge holders or exceptional circumstances. Eligibility and information on how to apply are available on the parking office webpage. We would suggest considering Tripshare (University car sharing) or City Car Club (short-term hire by the hour) as alternatives.


Living together

Noise within and immediately outside the building should be kept to a respectful level at all times. Quiet hours run from 10pm to 8am. During this time, no noise should be made that could disturb others. 

If you are experiencing a noise issue, contact your RA between 6pm and 10pm. Outside those hours, contact the ACE Response Team on 0131 651 2094. 

Some noise is a normal part of communal living. If noise from a neighbour is bothering you, speaking to them directly often helps. Your RA can support you in having that conversation if you would prefer not to approach someone alone. 


Guests may stay for a maximum of three nights. If you would like a guest to stay longer, request permission via the Accommodation Support Form. 


Please read section 5 of your tenancy agreement on MyEd, which sets out your responsibilities as a resident, and the Code of Student Conduct. 

All students are subject to the Code of Student Conduct. The Code sets out expectations which include behaviour on campus, in accommodation, online and off campus where the safety, interests or reputation of the University, its students and others are concerned. The Code also sets out the procedure for investigating and taking disciplinary action where there is an allegation that an individual student has breached these expectations.

Any violations or conduct issues will be dealt with under the Code and may include misuse of fire safety equipment, breaches of health and safety, fire safety requirements, the use of illegal substances, and more.

Potential outcomes may include fines, other disciplinary sanctions or suspension.


All University accommodation is non-smoking. This includes e-cigarettes and vapes. Any resident or guest found smoking anywhere in our accommodation will be fined up to £250 under the Code of Student Conduct. 


As per the terms and conditions of your lease you will be charged for any damages caused to your accommodation. 

Respect your accommodation and other residents. Do not damage or vandalise your flat, hall or room including any of the furniture and fittings.  Any damage caused by you or your guests will be charged to you.  

Un-attributable damage in shared areas (this includes the stairwells, pantries, kitchens, common rooms and laundries) will be split between ALL the tenants in the residence.

We'd like you to leave your room as you found it at the end of the year. This means no holes in the wall and no Blu-Tac stains either.


Contact your Community Manager if you are experiencing harassment.

The University prohibits harassment of any type. This includes any threatening or offensive behaviour or language expressed orally or in writing, including electronically. We recommend that you take particular care when using social media web sites. You are strongly encouraged to review the information below. 

University guidelines on Dignity and Respect

If you are experiencing harassment, contact your Community Manager via the Accommodation Support Form below.

Accommodation Support Form

For further advice and support, contact The Advice Place.

The Advice Place


Health & Safety

Maintaining Health and Safety is everyone's responsibility, staff and students.  To help you play your part please read our Health and Safety Guidelines for Students, which provide important information to help you stay safe in your accommodation.

Feeling unwell / registering with a gp: Register with a GP on arrival. The University's Richard Verney Health Centre is at the Student Centre, Bristo Square. Out-of-hours: NHS 24 on 111. 

Counselling: The Student Counselling Service offers support for students working through difficulties. 

Disability and additional support: If you have a disability or additional needs, the Disability and Learning Support Service can help. Contact your accommodation Operations Manager via the Accommodation Support Form if you need room modifications, equipment, or assistance during fire alarms. 

Appliances: Kitchens include a kettle, fridge/freezer, cooker, and microwave. Cooking appliances are not permitted within bedrooms. Take particular care with appliances purchased outside the UK. Appliances that do not meet UK electrical safety requirements are not permitted within student accommodation. Travel adapters and unsuitable extension leads can overheat or cause electrical circuits to trip and should not be used unless they meet the appropriate UK safety standards.

Repairs: Report repairs yourself. Do not assume domestic staff or a flatmate has done so. For emergency repairs out of hours, contact the ACE Response Team on 0131 651 2094. 


If the fire alarm sounds: Leave immediately. Do not stop to collect belongings. Go to your assembly point and wait. Do not re-enter until the ACE Response Team, University Security or the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirms it is safe. 

Weekly tests: A test is carried out each week by ACE staff, the date and time is displayed on your noticeboards. You do not need to leave during a test. If the alarm sounds for longer than 15 to 20 seconds, evacuate as normal. 

What causes alarms: Fumes or burnt food, steam from showers or straighteners, smokers' materials, aerosols, candles or incense, hair dryers and straighteners, tampering with detectors or fire doors. 

WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED: Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, candles or incense (banned in all University accommodation); propping fire doors open or hanging anything on them (fire doors must stay closed at all times); covering smoke or heat detectors; tampering with fire extinguishers or break-glass points. 

FINES: Up to £250 for smoking, vaping, or  using candles or incense, failing to evacuate, propping fire doors, or tampering with fire safety equipment. Tampering can also result in charges for replacements or repairs, and criminal charges. 


In an emergency?

Emergency services (fire/ambulance/police)999
Intruder or suspicious activity (ACE Response Team)0131 651 2094
Out of hours Medical (NHS24)111
Non-emergency Crime (Police Scotland)101
Emergency repair - office unattended (UoE Living App or ACE Response team)0131 651 2094

Medical: Register with a GP as soon as you arrive. The University's Richard Verney Health Centre is in the Student Centre at Bristo Square, however if this is outside your accommodation's area you can find practices closer to you on the NHS Inform webpage. Out-of-hours medical advice: call NHS 24 on 111.

Security: ACE Response Team staff are based at Pollock Halls 24 hours a day. When contacting the team, provide your name, location, and as much detail about the situation as possible. 


Support & Wellbeing

The Chaplaincy offers support to students and staff. The main Chaplaincy Centre in Bristo Square is well used for drop in, meetings and is where the Chaplaincy staff are based.

They also offer a listening service to people of all faiths and none.  


The Student Counselling Service offers counselling to assist students in working through their difficulty, understand themselves better and find ways of managing their situation.


The Disability and Learning Support Service offer guidance and support for students that have a disability, neurodiverse, mental or long-term health condition, or a specific learning difference that may impact your studies


Find out what your Association can do for you. Providing a wide range of information from ‘What’s on’ to The Advice Place.


Practical Information

For security reasons, do not tag your keys with your address. If a key is lost, the lock must be changed and you will be charged for this. 

Report any lost key or swipe card immediately to your site office or, if closed, to Pollock Halls Reception (0131 651 2094). If you think keys have been stolen, also contact the Police (101). 

Never give your key to anyone else. 

Lockouts & Replacement Key Charges

To be let back into your room following a lockout£30.00
Replacement keys, key cards, fobs, laundry cards, locker keys, post box keys£26.00 per key and £7.50 per fob
If keys are lost completely, a lock change is requiredFrom £120

All times when ACE Response Support needs to attend, the cost is £30. Please note that, if you are residing in one of the Private Provider nomination sites, the local arrangements for lockouts might be different. The local staff will be able to provide you with specific information on the opening times of the site office and how to contact out of hours support for lockouts. 


It is your responsibility to report repairs needed in your accommodation. Please do not rely on the Domestic Staff to report repairs for you - this is not their responsibility. Please do not assume that someone else has reported a repair; they usually haven't!

You can report repairs through the UoE Living App.

In the event of an emergency repair and the site/house office is unattended; please contact the ACE Response Support on 0131 651 2094. If you reside in one of the Private Provider nomination sites, please contact the local teams for information on how to report a repair.

Please take a look below for information on how to report a repair and key information.


Please refer to your offer of accommodation for your correct postal address and always include your full name and room number on deliveries. Where parcel lockers are available, we encourage you to use them for a convenient and secure way to receive and collect your parcels.

Pollock Halls

Mail is delivered to the mailboxes in your residence. Parcels are delivered to Pollock Reception and you will be emailed a collection number. Parcels can be collected Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm. Alternatively, you can use the Amazon Lockers available at Pollock Halls.

O'Shea Residence Hall 

Letters and small items are delivered to your individual mailbox. Medium and large parcels are delivered to the parcel lockers near the front entrance and you will be emailed a barcode for collection. Extra-large parcels are delivered to Reception and you will be emailed a QR code for collection. Alternatively, you can use the Amazon Locker “Sya” located at O'Shea Hall Reception.

O'Shea North & South Flats

Mail and parcels are delivered directly to your flat by the courier. You must make arrangements to be available or for a flatmate to receive parcels on your behalf. Alternatively, you can use the Amazon Locker “Sya” located at O'Shea Hall Reception.

Richmond Place

Mail is delivered to your kitchen. Parcels are delivered to the parcel lockers at the front of Richmond Place and you will receive a collection code from Packcity when your parcel is ready. Alternatively, you can use the Amazon Lockers available at your residence.

Other self-catered accommodation

Mail and parcels are delivered directly to your flat. You must make arrangements to be available or for a flatmate to receive parcels on your behalf.

Accommodation Partner residences

Mail and parcel arrangements vary by residence and may include mailboxes or collection from a reception desk.


All of our accommodation buildings have an on-site laundry facility, provided by Circuit (link opens in a new tab).

Laundry costs are not included in rent, but paying for your washing and drying is easy, with multiple cashless payment options:

  • Wash Pass - pay once and save all year, with no need to worry about topping up every time laundry day rolls around
  • Mobile App - pay from anywhere
  • Contactless - pay directly at the machine
  • Chip and Pin - pay on the payment terminal in the laundry room

Useful features of the Circuit Go app:

  • Reserve a Machine in Advance – you can book a machine up to two weeks in advance.
  • Machine Availability status – you can check on the app to see if a machine is available for you.
  • Wash Cycle Notifications – an alert will be sent to your phone when the machine has stopped.
  • Live Chat – you can contact Circuit directly via the app to discuss any issues.

Internet is provided by Resnet internet, except for in Murano, Shrubhill, and Salisbury where it is provided by Glide student and in Brae House where it is provided by ASK4.


One of Accommodation, Catering and Events' major business objectives is "to operate in a sustainable and environmentally effective and beneficial way".  With the introduction in 2009 of a Sustainability Policy, we're actively working to reduce our environmental impact, and making our students and staff more aware of environmental issues.  

A multitude of our accommodations have received Sustainability Awards following inovative initiatives in collaboration with our residents. Please discuss with your Resident Assistant if you want to be involved this year so that we can promote a sustainable world to everyone!

ACE Sustainability

Sustainability Awards

While you are not paying the electricity bill directly, you are paying for the electricity consumed as part of your rent; please take measures to keep consumption low.  This is not only environmentally friendly, but will help to limit increases in rents to meet increasing utility costs. You will receive updates on your power consumption to help you take steps to minimise your usage. You may be charged for excessive use.

Recycling

  • Please use recycling facilities-more information available on the posters in your kitchen, pantry or bin store.
  • Please ensure that items that may create a fire hazard are not allowed to accumulate in kitchens/pantries.

Flush through the water system if your flat has been unoccupied

If the flat has been left empty for 7 days or more, particularly in summer, then it is important that any water that has been standing is drained away. Please flush through your water systems in both bathroom and kitchen by running the water for two minutes to ensure good water quality and water hygiene.  Keep out of the way whilst this is being done as far as possible.  Where showers are fitted, please flush them through by running them for at least two minutes and flush the toilet a few times to ensure all stagnant water is cleared through the pipes. Report any concerns about the quality of the water (odour, colour or taste), poor water flow or pressure, water hammer (noisy pipes), tepid cold water or lukewarm hot water to your Site Office or to your Accommodation Manager.


If things go wrong

If you are uncertain who to speak to or wish to take matters further, talk to the Residence Life team or your Accommodation Customer Services Manager about who to contact.

If you have spoken to a member of staff and the problem has not been resolved and you wish to pursue the matter further, the University has a formal Complaint Handling Procedure which can be accessed through the link below.


If something is not working for you, speak to your RA or Community Team first. Many issues can be resolved quickly without a formal process. 

Transfers: If you would like to move to a different room or site, you can apply for a transfer. Full details are on our policies page.

Leaving early: Leaving before the end of your contracted period is only permitted in exceptional circumstances, for example a serious medical or welfare concern, or if you are no longer a registered student. Please read the full policy before making any arrangements. 


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