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Rules of Residence

Rules of Residence:

These Rules of Residence contain important policy and information relating to Share Houses Unlimited residences. Guests who accept a place in Share Houses Unlimited residences agree to abide by the Rules of Residence as part of their Residence Agreement. It is important to note that residents  who sign such Agreements are guests not tenants, and fall outside the scope of the Rental Housing Act, 1999 (Act 50 of 1999), Housing Consumer Protection Measure Act, 1998 (Act 95 of 1998) and Prevention of Illegal Eviction and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act, 1998 (Act 19 of 1998).

Failure to comply with the Rules of Residence may lead to disciplinary action being taken against you, which may include forthwith termination of Residence.

1.0 INTRODUCTION
House Shares Unlimited is a self-financing autonomous unit set up as a South African Bacpackers Concern and duly registered with Backpacking South Africa (The industry regulating body duly afiliated with SATSA and FEDHASA). It has various offices and staff and the Share House Manager has overall responsibility for every aspect of the service. House Shares Unlimited attempts to accomodate guests as comfortably as possible at affordable costs. In order to accomplish this, there must be a consistent occupancy level. Therefore a Residence Agreement (which is a legally binding contract between you and House Shares Unlimited) is issued for a pre-defined period. The Residence Agreement by extension includes the policies and procedures in these Rules of Residence. You have a responsibility to read and follow these policies so that you are aware of what is required of you. Please retain them for future reference. Administrative staff deal with residential fees, payments, keys, etc. The Guestial Services Team: Housekeepers, Cleaners, and Janitors are responsible for helping you to keep the communal areas clean and serviceable. At some locations, Facilities Managers look after the buildings, and House-keeping/Concierge/Security staff supervise the accommodation. Guest Assistants live throughout some House Shares Unlimited-owned and managed residences. They will make themselves known to you. Their role is to help new residents settle in, to give advice and assistance, and to help residents organise social activities, etc. Senior Wardens/Wardens are members of staff who live in various locations throughout the residences. Their major concern is to help you, both as an individual and as a member of the wider residential community. All staff of the Accommodation Service welcome you to House Shares Unlimited, and hope that you will have an enjoyable and rewarding time as part of your stay. All are available to provide assistance, so please introduce yourself and ask for help when you need it.

2.0 GENERAL INFORMATION
2.1 Use of the Accommodation
The Guest agrees that the house/flat/apartment to which he/she has been allocated is for his/her use at House Shares Unlimited, and the bedroom is for his/her personal use unless shared. No more than the registered number of residents per house/flat/apartment are permitted to live there. Sub-letting of all or part of the accommodation is prohibited. The Guest agrees not to interfere with, or alter the decor of his/her bedroom. Pictures, posters, etc. may be fixed to the areas of pinboard, and should be removed when you vacate the accommodation. Fixing them elsewhere using blutac, sellotape or other adhesive materials can cause damage to wallpaper or paintwork, for which you will be charged. The Guest agrees not to keep any pets or livestock in House Shares Unlimited residences. The Guest agrees to maintain the house/flat/apartment, and his/her bedroom in good condition. The accommodation will be inspected periodically, and any damages beyond normal wear-and-tear not noted on the Inventory/Room Contents Sheet/Schedule of Condition and any damages or missing items will be repaired or replaced by the House Shares Unlimited and the cost recovered from the Guest(s). All Guests of a floor/apartment or house may share joint responsibility for loss from or damage to communal areas within a building.

2.2 Cleaning
The Guest is responsible for the cleaning of his/her bedroom, and for keeping the communal areas of shared houses/flats/apartments in a clean and tidy condition. House Shares Unlimited reserves the right to make periodic inspections of the accommodation to ensure that basic hygiene standards are maintained. At least 24 hours prior notice will be given whenever possible. At least one Guest must be in attendance during an inspection. Failure to meet the required standard will result in a 24 hour notice being issued to enable the situation to be rectified by the Guest(s) concerned. If the situation is not rectified, House Shares Unlimited will arrange to have the area(s) concerned cleaned, and all charges passed on to the Guest(s).

2.3 Keys/Access
When you first register at the Accommodation Service, your keys (and, where appropriate, swipe cards) will be issued to you. Alternative arrangements can be made in advance if you do not intend to collect your keys on the date your Agreement starts, but your residential fees will be charged from this time regardless of whether or not you pick up your keys. Keys/swipe cards remain the property of House Shares Unlimited and should be returned to the Accommodation Service at the end of your contract period or on termination of your occupancy. On no account should keys be duplicated, or given/loaned to any other person. If keys/swipe cards are lost or otherwise cannot be returned to House Shares Unlimited on departure, you may be charged for the room on a daily basis, for replacement of keys/cards, and/or changing the locks. Any Guest who loses his/her keys/swipe card should report the fact as soon as possible to House Shares Unlimited. Please carry your keys/swipe card with you at all times. Senior Wardens/ Wardens, Housekeepers and House Shares Unlimited Security or concierge staff on duty have access to master keys for use in bona fide emergencies, but are not expected to needlessly devote their time to unlocking Guests? doors. Wardens may levy an administrative charge of R100 on any Guest who seeks the use of master keys to gain access to his/her accommodation.

2.4 Furnishings/Fittings
The accommodation has been furnished to a minimum standard set by House Shares Unlimited. In certain cases, House Shares Unlimited managed accommodation may have been furnished to a higher standard. Generally, most bedrooms are occupied by one Guest (unless shared) and all are equipped with beds, wardrobes, and power points for small electrical appliances. The majority of rooms are also fitted with wash hand basins. Some have connections for telephone/ data transmission. Communal kitchens are equipped with electric cookers, kettles, toasters fridges and/or fridge-freezers; some also have microwave ovens.    

2.5 Inventory/Room Contents Sheet
The Inventory/Room Contents Sheet/Schedule of Condition is the official record of the contents of the accommodation at the time the Guest(s) take(s) possession of it. Guests must check the contents and condition of their accommodation and note any discrepancies on the forms immediately at the commencement of occupation. The forms should be returned to the House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Office.

2.6 Booking Fee/Insurance
A Security Deposit Fee is payable in advance by each tenant applying for House Shares Unlimited accommodation. If the Deposit is not received with the Application Form, the Application Form will not be processed. Once an offer of accommodation is made, and accepted by you the Deposit becomes non-refundable. Part of the Fee includes an insurance premium to cover damage or loss but NOT guests' personal belongings.

2.7 Payment of Fees
When you are offered accommodation, an invoice is issued setting out the amounts due in residential fees. To accept the offer, you are required to pay all the residential fees due. Payments may be made by cash, credit card or deposit into a specified bank account. Outstanding residential fees are considered as a debt to House Shares Unlimited, and may result in disciplinary action. House Shares Unlimited reserves the rights to refer residents in debt to a debt collection agency or the House Shares Unlimited Solicitors for redress. This may affect residents future credit status and will result in termination of residence.

2.8 Administrative Charges
After you have entered into an Residence Agreement, in the event of late/non-payment of residential fees, the following procedures will be implemented:

Guest's personal effects will be removed from the room by a cleaning company; dumped and the room readied for the next guest. The guest will be charged for this - and a letter will be issued to the guest at his / her chosen domicilium citandi et executandi as per information letter.

This letter informs the Guest that debt recovery procedures are commencing, and the matter referred to debt collection agency or House Shares Unlimited Solicitor for redress. House Shares Unlimited is entitled (without prejudice to its other rights and remedies under the Residence Agreement) to levy charges to cover any extra administrative charges applicable in appropriate circumstances:

(i) Dishonoured Cheque/Direct Debit ~ an administrative charge of R500 will be incurred for each cheque or Direct Debit payment not honoured by the Guest?s bank/building society/credit card provider. Following such an occurrence, only cash payments or Banker?s Draft will be accepted.
(ii) Residency Reference ~ an administrative charge of R500 will be incurred in advance to provide a Residency Reference letter (where proof of residence is required, the Residence Agreement is generally sufficient for third parties).

2.9 Other Charges
In House Shares Unlimited managed accommodation, the Guest will pay all other charges for electricity, gas, and oil, as recorded by meters or apportioned, and all charges for telephone/ modem access/line rentals during the period of occupancy. Such charges include those for television licenses and council tax unless expressly otherwise excluded in the Residence Agreement.

2.10 Repairs/Damages
The Guest must report to House Shares Unlimited or Facilities Manager without delay any repairs/defects arising in the property by the Guest or his/her guests/visitors. You should use the system of Repair Request Slips or Repair Report Books to record any condition in your room or elsewhere in the residences which needs attention and/or repair. Alternatively, you may telephone/email your request, or use the on-line reporting facility. The Guest agrees to accept full financial liability for any loss/damage he/she may cause to the property. Guests and/ or their guests/visitors who accidentally or intentionally damage any House Shares Unlimited property within House Shares Unlimited residences will be expected to make payment for repair or replacement. Bills to anyone identified as responsible for vandalism must be paid by Guests on the same day, or they may face forthwith termination of residence. Where damage/loss is caused by unidentifiable persons, the financial liability will normally be borne by all residents of the area concerned, at the discretion of House Shares Unlimited, and additional charges raised as appropriate. This may include the cost of any necessary cleaning in communal areas. Guests may not alter or make repairs to any property or furniture within residences. Any tenant or their guest responsible for abusing fire equipment will result in the tenant being immediately removed from residences and charged with criminal damage.

2.11 Room Changes/Transfers
The room which you have been allocated is the room you will be expected to occupy for the term of your Accommodation Agreement. However, requests for room changes/transfers may be considered by the Share house Manager after you have been in residence for at least 2 days. Requests for room changes/transfers may be granted depending on availability. No room changes/transfers will be permitted where there are outstanding debts owed to House Shares Unlimited. A fee of R500 must be paid prior to any change/transfer being authorised. This fee will not be waiwed even where there are pressing medical/social circumstances. Guests making unauthorized room changes will be required to move back to their allocated room, and charged accordingly if cleaning is required. House Shares Unlimited reserves the right to require Guests to transfer to alternative House Shares Unlimited accommodation, should the needs of House Shares Unlimited dictate. In such circumstances, the Guest(s) will, where possible be given at least 2 days notice in writing

2.12 Termination of/ Release from Your Agreement
Guests will not normally be permitted to permanently vacate rooms during their period of occupancy unless they can find another tenant (who has no commitment to other House Shares Unlimited accommodation) to take their place. This includes Guests required to go on Periods of Absence such as holidays ? for which full fees will be charged.  Such arrangements are subject to the approval of House Shares Unlimited (and other house residents, where appropriate). Should you decide for any reason to permanently vacate your accommodation during your residence, you should seek an interview with the Share House Manager at least 2 days prior to your intended date of departure.    

You will be responsible for payment of residential fees until the room has been re-allocated. Guests wishing to leave but who continue as House Shares Unlimited residents, may list their name with House Shares Unlimited. A charge in lieu of notice/cleaning may also be made. Guests who discontinue their course of residence will be liable for residential fees for a maximum of 2 weeks following their departure, unless the room is re-allocated within this period. The Guest is required to obtain a letter of release/withdrawal from the House Shares Unlimited Office. If any of the obligations detailed in this document are not performed, House Shares Unlimited reserves the absolute right to terminate the Residence Agreement immediately. House Shares Unlimited may at any time re-enter the accommodation and resume possession of the accommodation and contents thereof. The House Shares Unlimited Residence Agreement shall determine but without prejudice to any other rights and remedies of House Shares Unlimited.

2.13 Departure
At the end of the residency period, the Guest agrees to vacate the accommodation and return all keys. In general you must lock your room and return your keys in person to House Shares Unlimited by 10.00am on the last day of the residence, unless other arrangements have been made in advance. Guests should ensure that bedrooms and communal areas are left secure. Check that gas, electricity, etc., are turned off, and that windows are closed and properly fastened. Residences should be left clean and tidy and cleared of all personal possessions. All food should be removed from cupboards and fridges/ freezers, etc. Additional cleaning charges may be levied in respect of residences not left in an acceptable condition.

2.14 Vacation Use
Guests who wish to go on holiday will be responsible for payment in advance of all fees until their return.

2.15 Incoming Mail/Parcels
Mail/parcels for Guests are not sorted by Accommodation staff. No responsibility can be accepted by the House Shares Unlimited for mail which is left for Guests. On departure, please ensure that you inform correspondents of your change of address to avoid difficulty and delay. The correct address format for correspondence is (please refer to your Residence Agreement for the exact postal address.) Guests in House Shares Unlimited managed accommodation receive mail directly via post office deliveries. Any mail not addressed to any of the residents should be put aside for House Shares Unlimited to collect. This will ensure that bills for services are paid on time by Landlords and that no suspension of service occurs.

3.1 Indentification
When you first pickup your keys you will be issued with a Residential Pass for your period of residence. You should keep this ID card with you to produce/ surrender when required by House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Service personnel, Security staff, Wardens, or Guest Assistants. Failure to present cards on request may result in forthwith barring from residence. All residents are required to attend a residents induction at the beginning of their stay. Guests who fail to attend this induction will be subject to disciplinary action.

3.2 Medical Registration
Guests living in all houses must register with a local Doctor/General Practitioner, and must advise the Accommodation Service of the name of the doctor. Information regarding local medical practices is available at the House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Offices. When completing the application form for accommodation, it is important to clearly state if you have any medical condition/disability (for example asthma). Such information will enable the Accommodation Service to assist you, should a problem arise. You cannot later use a medical condition as a reason to leave accommodation if you did not initially disclose it on your application form.

3.4 Medical Emergencies/Illnesses
If you are unfortunate enough to be taken ill or involved in an accident in residences, you should contact Emergency services. You should also inform the Office or a friend, if possible. Please inform the House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Office if you are a resident who is a qualified First Aider.

3.5 Personal Safety
Now that you are away from home and living independently, your personal safety becomes a priority but you must take responsibility for your own personal safety.

Steps to Protect Yourself
 Do not walk alone in unlit or poorly illuminated areas
 Consider carrying a personal alarm or mobile telephone
 Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
 Always check the identity of all persons calling at your door before letting them in
 Follow the advice given by House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Office and Get Home Safe initiatives.

3.6 Personal Safety Plan
Each Guest of House Shares Unlimited accommodation will be issued with a Personal Safety Plan (PSP) proforma along with his/ her keys. The purpose of this PSP is to emphasise that each Guest is responsible for his/her personal safety whilst living in House Shares Unlimited accommodation, and to rehearse the mechanisms which are in place to provide a safe and secure environment. You will be required to complete sections of the PSP and return it to House Shares Unlimited.

3.7 Fire Prevention
Preventing fires is everyone?s responsibility and your cooperation is essential. Please pay special attention to Rules 3.8 and 3.9, and remember:
 always use an ashtray to put out cigarettes. NEVER use a wastepaper bin
 never smoke in bed
 do not tamper with the safety equipment
 if a fire extinguisher is discharged for any reason, the occurrence must be reported to House Shares Unlimited as soon as possible
 do not leave a cooker unattended whilst cooking
 do not obstruct or prop open fire doors

3.8 Fire Safety
The Guest agrees to comply immediately with any requirement served orally or in writing by House Shares Unlimited Accommodation in connection with Fire Safety, including the safe use of electrical equipment, in accordance with the relevant legislation. Activating a false alarm, or tampering with any fire safety equipment, fire doors or emergency telephones is irresponsible, and puts every Guest?s life at risk. Any resident who deliberately tampers with such fire equipment will be automatically removed from residences and referred to the Disciplinary Committee. They may also be subject to criminal prosecution. Guests whose guests/visitors deliberately tamper with fire safety equipment will be similarly treated.

3.9 Fire Alarms
It is the duty of all Guests to familiarise themselves with the Fire Regulations for the location of their accommodation, and to participate in any fire drills which may be held. Guests must also familiarise themselves with the location of fire exits, fire alarm systems and fire fighting equipment and note this on the Personal Safety Plan proforma. No matter how many ?false alarms? have occurred in your residence, you must treat every alarm as an emergency. If you act as if it is a false alarm and fail to evacuate, or you take your time evacuating the building, you could lose your life. Failure to observe this rule may result in disciplinary action. Testing of the fire alarm systems is carried out periodically. You have also a duty to report any instances of abuse of the fire safety equipment, in the interests of all residents who may rely on the equipment in an emergency.

3.10 Buildings Security
For the safety of everyone living in House Shares Unlimited accommodation, all external doors should be kept closed. Guests and their guests/visitors must enter only via the front or main entrances. Other doors are for emergency use only. Windows are not to be used for access/egress. Please do not allow people whom you do not know to enter any part of the accommodation. Do not prop open doors, and keep your own room door locked at all times, even if you will only be away a short time. If you jeopardise the security of a building by loaning your ID cards or keys, entering or exiting via windows, propping open doors, or letting in strangers, you may be subject to disciplinary action.

3.11 Electrical Applicances
All electrical appliances must be used carefully, taking note of the electrical loading limits of the wiring and the danger of fire. In houses, only appliances rated under 2 amps should be used. House Shares Unlimited Accommodation regularly tests all electrical items supplied. Vacuum cleaners must only be plugged into power points in corridors or communal areas. Corridor sockets must not be used for any other purpose. Electric fires, heaters, irons, cooking appliances must in no circumstances be used in bedrooms. The Guest agrees to make sure that trailing cables of table lamps, radios, etc., do not constitute a hazard. The Guest agrees not to attempt to repair any faulty appliance or remove special light fittings. Guests are responsible for the safety of any electrical items which they bring into House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Premises. All your own appliances must be in good working order. On evidence provided that they have been PAT tested at least 3 months previously..

3.12 Hazardous Items
Firearms (real or imitation), offensive weapons, fireworks, flares and other pyrotechnics are not permitted in House Shares Unlimited Accommodation or grounds. Candles, incense burners, and other naked flames can be hazardous, and are not permitted in House Shares Unlimited Accommodation. The use of any type of chip pan is prohibited.

3.13 Use of Alcohol
In Residences alcohol consumption is limited to bedrooms only. Alcohol is prohibited from being consumed in communal areas such as common rooms and kitchens unless on special occasions provided prior consent is obtained from House Shares Unlimited Accommodation on an ad hoc basis. Guests who fail to comply with this regulation will be subject to disciplinary action. If you choose to consume alcohol, you are expected to do so in a responsible way. Being under the influence of alcohol does not justify or excuse irresponsible behaviour. If the general permission to consume alcohol is abused, it may be limited or withdrawn at the discretion of House Shares Unlimited Accommodation. Guests/visitors under the influence of alcohol may be refused permission to enter or remain in House Shares Unlimited Accommodation.

3.14 Substance Misuse
The possession, use of or involvement with certain drugs or other controlled substances is illegal and against House Shares Unlimited policy. Any action which breaches any drugs-related legislation will be regarded as a serious disciplinary matter. On all occasions, residents using Class A drugs will be referred automatically to the police and the House Shares Unlimited?s Disciplinary Committee. However, in House Shares Unlimited Accommodation, immediate action including removal, may be taken if the safety or well-being of residents are affected, or the supply of drugs is involved. Anyone with information in relation to an arrestable offence must inform the police within a reasonable time. It is a criminal offence to occupy premises and knowingly allow drug related offences to take place.

3.15 Smoking Policy
All communal areas such as kitchen, living and dining areas have been designated as ?No Smoking? zones. Guests are permitted to smoke in their bedrooms however a number of areas have been designated as completely smoke free.

3.16 Vehicles & Bicycles
Guests who bring motor vehicles/motorbikes onto House Shares Unlimited Property must conform to the parking and speed restrictions. Parking is only permitted in designated areas; vehicles left in unauthorised places may be clamped or removed, or the police informed. In certain areas charges apply for parking. Bicycles must not be brought into any residential areas at any time, except to areas which have been specifically designated. A fine will be imposed on Guests who breach this rule. House Shares Unlimited accepts no liability for the loss of or damage to vehicles/bicycles.

4.0 COMMUNAL LIVING
There are two general principles which residents should note: firstly, the comfort and convenience of others should always be respected; and secondly, House Shares Unlimited Accommodation must not be brought into disrepute. In order to promote the welfare and comfort of residents, behaviour.    

     a minimum of restriction and supervision is imposed. However, acceptance of a place in House Shares Unlimited Accommodation deems acceptance by you of the policies and procedures. This includes House Shares Unlimited policies
relating to substance misuse, harassment, intimidation, sectarianism, and other inappropriate behaviour.

4.1 Respect for Others
As an adult, you are responsible for your behaviour and fully accountable for your actions. House Shares Unlimited Accommodation have authority to remove from accommodation any Guest who ignores the rules or behaves in an inconsiderate manner towards fellow Guests and others. All Guests agree to endorse and abide by the House Shares Unlimited?s Equal Opportunities and Harassment policies. Behaviour of a discriminatory nature against a person?s race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or disability will not be tolerated. This includes the display of any material/emblems, behaviour, or use of language which may cause offence. In areas where House Shares Unlimited Accommodation is adjacent to residential parts of the local community, it is particularly important that respect is given to neighbours, and their right to ?quiet and peaceful enjoyment?. In a number of areas the local community is made up of elderly residents and families with young children. In the past there have been complaints about the behaviour of some residents returning from pubs and discos in the early hours. The onus is on residents to behave responsibly and with consideration for other members of the community. Police are made aware of complaints and may take appropriate action as necessary. It should be borne in mind that where the conduct of an individual tenant is deemed to have brought House Shares Unlimited Accommodation into disrepute, House Shares Unlimited may invoke disciplinary proceedings in relation to the tenant(s) concerned, in addition to any measures taken by the police. All residents must be aware of the consequences of unacceptable behaviour and the impact that this has on local residents. House Shares Unlimited requires assistance from residents in maintaining and strengthening the good relationship which exists with the local community.

4.2 Noise
The Guest agrees that the accommodation will at all times be occupied in such a way as to cause no disturbance or inconvenience to the occupants of neighbouring premises. Unacceptable noise is any sound, human or otherwise, which is or may be disturbing to a Guest, either within House Shares Unlimited accommodation or in neighbouring residential areas. Minimum quiet hours are 11.30pm to 7.00am, during which period it should be quiet enough to permit each Guest to sleep. Other hours are seen as courtesy hours, during which each Guest is expected to reduce noise levels when asked to do so by another Guest. It is the prerogative of House Shares Unlimited Accommodation to determine what is an acceptable level of noise, and a £50 fine may be imposed on any Guest who exceeds this (the Guest may also be fined for the actions of his/her Guests/Visitors). Communal areas should normally be vacated by 3.00am, except with prior consent from fellow residents. The playing of musical instruments and stereo/hi-fi systems, televisions, etc., should be within reason, moderation, and consideration.

4.3 Cleanliness & Hygiene
Personal hygiene when living in a communal setting is of paramount importance, particularly in kitchen areas. The following guidelines should be observed at all times:
? no dirty cooking utensils/crockery must be left in kitchen areas
? cookers/worktops must be wiped down after use, and particularly after spillages
? separate cooked and uncooked meats in fridges and freezers
? Guests are responsible for the removal of rubbish from their rooms (and from flats/apartments) to external bins or bin stores and for ensuring that the areas which they use are kept to a reasonable standard of hygiene.
Failure to maintain a reasonable standard of hygiene and cleanliness may result in you incurring additional cleaning charges House Shares Unlimited Accommodation taking disciplinary or other action, for example, the confiscation of dirty dishes/cutlery (see Rule 2.2).

4.4 Guests/Visitors
A guest is someone who stays with a hosting Guest overnight. Guests may not stay any longer than two nights in any one-week period. However, for special events the number of guests will be restricted and bookings of guest may be permitted only up until a notified time/date and/or a maximum number of guests permitted within a building. A visitor is someone who does not stay overnight. Visitors may be entertained any day but not received after 3.00am. The hosting Guest is responsible for the behaviour of the guest/ visitor, and will be held liable for their behaviour. Guests will be refused entry if not accompanied by the hosting Guest. The identities of all guests/visitors may be checked, and co-operation is required. Visitors are expected to leave at a reasonable time (normally this would be defined as not later than 1.00am). In some houses the hosting Guest is required to sign in guests/visitors using the Visitors? Book. Guests/visitors can be signed in up to 1.00am. After this time, no one can enter the house a guest/visitor. House Shares Unlimited reserves the right to refuse admission to residential accommodation to any guest/ visitor, and/or require him/her to leave.

4.5 Heating Arrangements
Heating arrangements and facilities in House Shares Unlimited managed properties vary, and may include gas, oil, electricity or solid fuel (see Rule 2.9). In most cases the properties are centrally heated. Guests are not permitted to bring ancillary heating appliances into any House Shares Unlimited residences. It may be necessary during cold weather, particularly during the Christmas vacation, to ensure a minimum heating level to avoid freeze-ups and subsequent risk of burst pipes and flood damage. Guests of House Shares Unlimited managed residences will be held responsible for any damage caused by, or assistance required, as the result of pipes freezing or bursting during cold weather if malice or neglect on their part results in such damage.

4.6 Ventilation/Condensation
To prevent and cure condensation/mould you should provide continuous warmth combined with frequent ventilation to aid a good air circulation. Please open your windows regularly ~ even in cold weather ~ to reduce the risk of condensation. You should refrain from drying clothing on radiators or in communal areas, as this is a prime cause of condensation and mould growth/staining.

4.7 Televisions/Licensing
A tenant must have a licence to cover a private television if it is mains powered. The only type of TV which is covered by a licence held by a Guest?s parent(s) is one which is powered solely by internal batteries ~ a separate licence is not needed. If a television set is located and used in a communal area of the premises, then all the Guests and guests/visitors may watch the set, provided that it is covered by a valid TV licence. In certain House Shares Unlimited managed properties, TVs located in Common Rooms and communal areas are covered by licences held by House Shares Unlimited/owner of the premises, and Guests are not required to purchase a separate licence. Guests in House Shares Unlimited managed residences who may wish to have satellite/cable TV installed should check first with House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Service.

4.8 Laundry/ Cleaning Facilities
There are washing machines and tumble driers located in residences. These are available for use by everyone in House Shares Unlimited accommodation. Vacuum cleaners and other equipment (eg irons) may be used to enable you to clean your room and personal effects if you live in House Shares Unlimited owned accommodation. Please do not abuse or overload washers or dryers. If you are found in breach ? you will be expected to replace the appliance.

4.9 Telephones
At some locations, there are telephone facilities available in your bedroom. However, you may have to take out a subscription with a telephone company if you require a connection. All communal phones are locked for outgoing calls except through freephone companies. Any tampering with these lines to unlock or abuse of these lines will make you liable for the bill incurred as a result. Depending on network the emergency services may also be reached via these phones ? please check and avail yourself of the procedure required. Please treat all telephones with respect as unusable phones are a source of considerable inconvenience and could have serious consequences if urgent assistance is required. In House Shares Unlimited managed residences, private telephone facilities are not generally provided. However, in purpose-built accommodation, public telephones are normally close by. If individual groups of residents wish to have a telephone installed, or take over an existing line, they may do so, but are responsible for making their own arrangements and paying all charges. You must notify House Shares Unlimited Accommodation in advance if this is your intention.

4.10 Utility Services
Guests in House Shares Unlimited managed accommodation are normally responsible for making their own/joint arrangements with the utility providers ~ electricity, gas, heating oil, etc. (see Rule 2.9). You may be required to sign for the supply of electricity and other energy sources to the premises, pay any security deposit which may be required, and/or obtain cards for card meters if they are installed. In certain locations, residents may be required to pay for/replace central heating oil. Please check your Accommodation Agreement for details.

4.11 Energy Efficiency/Re-cycling
In the interests of energy efficiency, and to be environmentally friendly, Guests are asked to observe/carry out a number of practices whilst living in House Shares Unlimited accommodation:
? turn off all unnecessary lights, taps, and electrical appliances, and turn off radiators when not in use during warm weather
? take all used glass bottles, paper and cardboard to re-cycling areas (where provided).
In certain areas Local Councils impose fines for non compliance or leaving rubbish in front of dwellings. If you are in breach you will be held responsible for these charges.

4.12 Obtaining Assistance
One of the ways in which House Shares Unlimited and Guest Assistants assist you is by being on duty outside office hours. Duty rotas are posted on noticeboards throughout the residences (and on House Shares Unlimited website at http://www.geocities.com/condorpropertymanagement so that you know who is available to assist you with questions, problems and emergency situations.

4.13 Lost & Found
Anything lost or found may be reported to House Shares Unlimited Accommodation. House Shares Unlimited however accepts mo responsibility for any loss of property however it occurs.

4.14 Making Your Views Known
It is in your own interests to make your views known whilst living in House Shares Unlimited Accommodation. House Shares Unlimited welcomes your comments and feedback on the standard of service provided. Regular surveys and questionnaires are conducted, and you will be asked to participate at some stage. If there are any issues, comments or pressing problems you may wish to bring to the attention of House Shares Unlimited Accommodation, please feel free to make these known to local staff. The Accommodation Manager may convene an Accommodation Panel from time to time to act in an advisory capacity and provide feedback on accommodation issues. The Panel will be made up of residential residents and other representatives, as considered appropriate. Details will be posted on noticeboards and the web site. If you are dis-satisfied about any aspect of the Accommodation Service in particular, or House Shares Unlimited in general, and you have not received a satisfactory initial response from the department responsible, you have the right to make a complaint. To find out how to do so, ask for a Tenant Complaint Form from any House Shares Unlimited Office.

5.0 DISCIPLINARY ACTION
House Shares Unlimited expects you to conduct yourself as a mature and responsible adult and by your actions contribute positively to the wider residential community. However, when this does not happen, certain consequences will follow. Some of these are set out below.

5.1 Senior Wardens/Wardens
In the interest of the safety and comfort of all, Guests must cooperate with the requests of Wardens, who act with the full authority of House Shares Unlimited. Under this authority, the Wardens may deal with offences occurring within or in the premises of House Shares Unlimited owned or managed accommodation and, in addition to other powers available to them for the maintenance of good order and discipline therein, may impose a fine not exceeding £100 on any Guest or on any non-resident visiting the premises. Oral and written warnings may be given.    

Payments are to be received by the Share House Manager only ? who will keep it in a house fund to be disbursed for the upgrading of facilities in the house concerned at the tenant committee?s request.

5.3 Removal/ Barring from Accommodation
Where they deem it appropriate, the Share House Manager is empowered by House Shares Unlimited to take any necessary action and, at his/her absolute discretion in an urgent or extreme situation (ie one which affects the safety and well-being of Guests), to summarily remove, or have removed, a Guest or guest/visitor. The share house manager is empowered to bar residents from occupying or visiting residences or their premises. With the approval of the share house manager Wardens may bar residents from occupying or visiting residences or their premises. The more serious the violation, the more formalised the process will become, including documentation of the incident, complaint and decision. You must be aware that such incidents become part of your tenant record and is shared on a database with other agencies and private landlords. It may seriously hamper your ability to obtain residence elsewhere as most agencies prefer to contact your previous landlord. Fines and arrears of fees are debts to House Shares Unlimited, and, if not paid promptly can influence your credit score. The procedure for this is laid down in Local council Ordinances.

5.4 Fines
Any fines must be paid at the House Shares Unlimited Accommodation Office within 7 days. If a Guest is required to pay damages or reparation, this must be done within 10 days of notification.

5.5 Appeals
Guests may appeal against penalties (including fines) imposed by Wardens. A written appeal must be lodged within 10 days of notification of the penalty. The appeal should be addressed to House Shares Unlimited Property Management

Pinboad
Dustbin
Hangers
Desk
Chair
Bed
Matress
Linnen
Lightbulb
Curtain
Desk lamp
Electric Outlet
Multiplug
Extention
Inventory
Room Contents Sheet / Statement of condition
Medical Condition
Medical Doctor registration
First aider




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PO Box 2488, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Phone: (082) 367 3346 International: +27 82 367 3346


This page was last updated 9 April 2008