Working at ACS – Living in the United Kingdom

Areas around the ACS campuses are some of the most attractive in the UK, and therefore popular places to live. Our proximity to central London is also another positive, although it can also mean housing is expensive in certain areas. Another general point of note is that properties in the UK are usually smaller in size than our European or American counterparts. They will, however, often make up in character what they lack in square footage.

The dedicated expertise of the ACS Housing Officer on each campus will be able to help you find your ideal home. Their extensive knowledge of the rental market and local estate agents is also a great advantage in achieving success in such a competitive environment. In addition, email and the many on-line resources now make it easier than ever to send property details and photos in advance to help ease the decision making process prior to your arrival.

How much can I expect to pay in rent

A one bedroom apartment is currently renting between £600 - £750 per calendar month (pcm). A cheaper option is to share, and a two bedroom apartment is currently renting at £725 - £900 per calendar month. In some cases teachers are paying much less by sharing a flat or house.

What does this include

Most apartments are offered unfurnished but we are also able to find furnished apartments and the prices between the two do not really vary. Standard accommodation will include a cooker (or range) and kitchen fittings, sanitary ware in the bathrooms although sometimes you will find a bathtub without a shower. Carpets and/or flooring, drapes and light fixtures are also supplied. Your rent will not include utilities such as gas, electricity, water, telephone and Council Tax.

What is Council Tax

Council Tax is a local community charge covering public services such as garbage collection and policing, to highlight two. The tax is rated according to the size of the property.You can expect to pay between £1,020 per year - £1,400 per year (depending on the size of your flat/house).This is paid by a direct debit, which you organise through your bank over ten monthly payments every year. If you are living alone there is a deduction of 25%

What will I need to pay “up front”

This is important. You will normally be asked to pay one month’s rent in advance plus an additional six-week rent security deposit, ten days prior to taking up residence or when you sign the lease document. The agent will also charge a fee for drafting the lease agreement and making a credit check. Costs for this vary from agent to agent but range from £50 to as much as £175. We try to avoid the charges for credit checks by having Human Resources draft a letter explaining your salary and contract terms with ACS.

It is also helpful to bring your bank statements for the last six months from your current bank to show to the Rental Agent, in case they are required. The security deposit is returnable after vacating the premises; deductions are charged for damages in the normal way.This will be assessed by means of an inventory at both check in and check out. You may be asked to pay for one of the inventories.

To facilitate these transactions, it is necessary to open a checking account prior to your arrival in the UK, and Human Resources will help you to do this.

What about pets

You can bring your dog with you by using the Pet Travel Scheme. Arrangements for this usually take about six months. While we are a nation of animal lovers, the lease to most apartment blocks does not allow for dogs. This will limit your housing options and you may have to consider renting a small house to get round this. On occasion we have found dog friendly apartments but this is not easy.

Will I need a car

If you choose not to have a car then housing options are confined to those areas with good public transport links to school. Homes close to an appropriate station may not necessarily be close to other amenities such as major shopping so be prepared to walk, cycle or get to know the public transport system.

Popular areas where ACS staff live:

ACS Cobham:
Cobham, Esher, Leatherhead, Surbiton, Tolworth, Hersham, East Molesey, and Weybridge.

ACS Egham:
Egham, Staines, Windsor, and Virginia Water.

ACS Hillingdon:
Hillingdon, Uxbridge, Hayes, Eastcote, Ickenham, Northwood, Harefield, Ruislip, and Twickenham.

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