Bridge Street Studios - A Complete Guide

BRIDGE STREET STUDIOS: A COMPLETE GUIDE

WELCOME

WHAT IS THE ADDRESS?

Bridge Street Studios, 168 Bridge Street West, Birmingham B19 2AL (USE B19 2YX in SAT NAV)

WHERE CAN I PARK MY CAR?

Bridge Street West provides free on-street parking.

IS BRIDGE STREET STUDIOS WITHIN THE CLEAN AIR ZONE?

NO. However the route you take to Bridge Street Studios may take you within the Clean Air Zone.

To improve air quality within the city, Birmingham introduced a Category D Clean Air Zone on 1 June 2021 and will charge owners of the most high-polluting vehicles to drive within certain parts of the city centre, unless they have an exemption. You can check if your car is exempt here. The charges for vehicles which do not meet the emission standard will be £8 per day. A resident who meets specific eligibility criteria, may be able to apply for a temporary exemption permit here.

WHEN CAN I MOVE IN?

As long as you have made the necessary payments and completed all paperwork you will be able to check in from 7th September. For the first weekend we normally send invites at least a week before so we can ensure the day runs smoothly and we don't have lots of people waiting for one lift! If you expect to check-in after this weekend, please email admin@volume.property confirming your check-in date.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT CHECK-IN?

Bridge Street Studios is completely keyless. Access to the building and your apartment will be through an App. You will be invited to download the App onto your smart phone, before your check-in slot. This will allow for a self check-in process. Access will begin from your booked check-in slot. Even though it is a self check-in process, a slot must be booked as we endeavour to make your check-in swift, by limiting the number of residents checking in at the same time.

As soon as you arrive, please move your belongings into your apartment immediately and before you explore the Residence.

Please avoid using the lift, where possible, to keep it free for other residents moving in.

WHAT FACILITIES WILL I FIND ON-SITE?

The Gym

Meditation Room

Study Lounge

Chill Lounge

Laundry Facilities:

The laundry room is located on Floor 2 and includes washing machines and dryers connected to an app so you can check availability from the comfort of your apartment. Outside Space:

There is a lovely courtyard which we encourage residents to use all year round.

Bike Storage:

Indoor bike storage is available in the courtyard. Please remember to bring your own bike lock. Bikes are not to be kept in your apartment.

WHAT TO BRING

Below is a comprehensive list of what you will find in your apartment. There are lots of helpful lists on the internet to make sure you don't forget anything.

WHAT’S IN MY BEDROOM?

  • Double Bed (Dimensions 135cmx190cm ) in Edition I and II studios and King Size bed (Dimensions 150cmx190cm) in Edition III and IV studios
  • Desk and chair (x2 in Edition IV studios)
  • Wardrobe with shelves (Quadruple size in Edition IV studios)
  • Coat hooks
  • Book shelf
  • Bedside table (x2 in Edition IV studios)
  • Under bed storage
  • 40” Smart TV, 43” in Edition IV studios

Not included/Items you may want to bring: Iron & ironing board, Hangers, Bedding (Mattress protector, Duvet, Pillows, Duvet cover, Pillowcases, Fitted sheets) TV aerial (Smart TV provides access to internet streaming Apps such as Netflix, BBC iplayer etc. An aerial will be required to watch the full Freeview and Terrestial TV broadcast channels)

WHAT’S IN MY KITCHEN?

  • Fridge/Freezer
  • Sink
  • Oven
  • Microwave
  • Two ring electric hob
  • Cupboards
  • Cutlery Drawer

Not included/ items you may want to bring: Kettle, Toaster, Waste bin

WHAT’S IN MY BATHROOM?

  • Shower
  • Washbasin
  • Bathroom Mirror
  • Toilet
  • Towel hook

Not included/ items you may want to bring: Towels, Toilet paper, Waste bin, Toilet brush

WHAT NOT TO BRING

For your safety the following items are not permitted:

Candles, incense sticks or anything else which may constitute a fire hazard or require a naked flame Electric heaters, paraffin heaters or gas heaters Chip pans and deep fat fryers Halogen bulbs or decorative mains-powered fairy lights (battery-operated are allowed) Additional items such as fridges, freezers, washing machines and portable cookers

 

LIVING AT BRIDGE STREET STUDIOS

Your Smart Key Access

You will be invited by email to download your Smart Key which is how you will access Bridge Street Studios and your apartment. This email may go to your spam. Your Smart Key is set to work only within your check-in and check-out time. Your Smart Keys operates using BlueTooth connectivity. You must have this on to use your Smart Key.

If you cannot access your Smart Key as your battery has died or you have lost your phone or left it in your room, I'm sure one of the residents would be happy to let you in or please call us on 0121 285 9490 to assist.

TROUBLESHOOTING UPKEY

  • Ensure connected to internet (Wifi or data).
  • Ensure bluetooth is on.
  • Are you trying to open the correct lock? (could be on the wrong floor or trying to open the wrong corridor, yes this does happen!).
  • Place phone close to the reader to ensure activating correct lock
  • If UPKey is flickering between different locks you may want to consider reducing the Bluetooth sensitivity by going to the UPKey menu -Settings-BLE sensitivity - Optimum level seems to be 75 but you can adjust to suit you. Video Instructions Link
  • If App is not loading, close down and log back in. If continues, reinstall app and login.
  • If you haven’t got access to your phone or you suspect there maybe an issue with your phone, try downloading the app from another device.
  • If you have tried the above and you are still having issues, contact us on 0121 285 9490. Press 1 and 1 again to get through to the emergency line, if you are locked out.
 

FIRE AND SAFETY

Prevention is our number one strategy for reducing the risk of fire. Therefore we have some strict policies in place which residents must adhere to.

SMOKING POLICY

Bridge Street Studios is strictly a no smoking residence - inside and outside. If you do smoke, please do so away from the building to ensure fumes do not enter any residents’ studio through open windows. This includes E-Cigarettes.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

  • Candles, incense sticks or anything else which may constitute a fire hazard or require a naked flame
  • Electric heaters, paraffin heaters or gas heaters
  • Chip pans and deep fat fryers - do not use any method of cooking which involves “deep-fat” frying and do not leave any gas or electric cooking rings switched on and unattended;
  • Halogen bulbs or decorative mains-powered fairy lights (battery-operated are allowed)
  • Additional items such as fridges, freezers and portable cookers

FIRE SAFETY ADVICE

Some of the most common sources of kitchen fire are from leaving cooking appliances on or unattended, or when oil ignites. In case of a fire call 999 immediately.

Turn off any electrical items that you will not be using overnight. Fires can spread rapidly and can cause severe damage before being noticed, you can reduce the risk overnight by turning off any unused electrical appliances.

Overloading sockets is a big no go, never overload electrical sockets or electrical adaptors. Take particular caution with extension leads/adaptors and high powered items like kettles, heaters and irons to ensure they will not exceed the maximum current rating stated

Be careful with hair straighteners and curlers, leaving these on the floor can start a fire.

Don't leave phones or laptops charging longer than necessary

IN THE CASE OF FIRE

We have a 'stay put' policy in place if there is a fire in the building. This is because the building has been built creating a protective barrier against fire to keep residents safe by staying in their flats with their doors and windows closed. Using a ‘Stay Put’ policy also allows firefighters to do their job quickly, easily and safely without mass panic. You are not legally obliged to stay put if you wish to leave in the event of a fire.

If you are in the studio or other area where the fire is taking place, you should evacuate following the route displayed in the building and call 999 immediately.

SMOKE AND HEAT DETECTORS

Each studio is fitted with its own smoke and heat detector. If smoke is detected in your studio it will only go off in your studio. You will need to call us on 0121 285 9490 to let us know everything is safe and reset the alarm.

To reduce the chance of the detector going off, please ensure you turn on your extractor hood when cooking and bathroom extractor when using the shower.

FIRE DOORS

Fire doors have been fitted throughout the building to help slow the spread of a fire and smoke. They do self-close but please ensure the door has closed behind you.

Please don't wedge these doors open. Make sure that all corridors at the property are free from belongings, especially bikes, or furniture that would prevent you from escaping if there is a fire.

FIRE EQUIPMENT

It is a criminal offence to tamper with any fire equipment as you are endangering yourself and others. If it becomes evident you have done so, you will be charged for any associated costs to repair the damage caused. Incidences of tampering will be addressed firmly.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

In the event of a Gas Leak, Call National Grid Immediately on 0800 111 999.

In the event of a Fire or Theft, call the emergency services on 999.

SECURITY

There is no on-site security. There is operational CCTV recording 24/7 inside and outside Bridge Street Studios. We would appreciate your cooperation by ensuring doors and windows are closed.

CLOSED DOOR POLICY

If you are entering the residence and someone is coming in behind you, that you do not recognise, you should allow the door to close and let them use their own smart key. If it's a visitor, they can use the intercom system to gain access.

 

CONTENTS INSURANCE

We strongly recommend that you protect your personal possessions against loss, theft and damage. There are different types of contents insurance and some may even cover you outside your home. We currently do not offer contents insurance to our residents.

COUNCIL TAX

To qualify for exemption from council tax you must be undertaking a full time or qualifying course at a Prescribed Educational Establishment. If you are a student at University of Birmingham, Birmingham City University, University College Birmingham, Aston University or Coventry University confirmation of your student status is sent directly to Birmingham Council.. However, you will still need to complete an application form to apply for a discount or an exemption. For all other educational establishments you will need to send your student certificate when you apply for a discount or an exemption here - https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/50187/full_time_students_attending_college_or_university%20to

TV LICENSE

There is a Smart TV in your apartment which provides access to internet streaming Apps such as Netflix, BBC iplayer, Youtube etc. An aerial will be required to watch the full Freeview and Terrestial TV broadcast channels) and also a TV license. To see if you will need a TV license please check the TV Licensing Website for further details https://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/check-if-you-need-one

GUEST POLICY

We are happy for you to have occassional overnight guests. For any guests who you would like to stay for an extended period you will need to check with us by emailing details to book@volume.property

LAUNDRY

You can access the laundry room on floor. Circuit manages the washing machines and dryers and you will need to download ad register the "CIRCUIT LAUNDRY PLUS" APP on your phone. You will find instructions in the laundry room.

GETTING CONNECTED

Glide are the internet provider for Bridge Street Studios. Please watch the videos below for an easy guide to getting online and also connecting your Smart TV.

CONNECTION ISSUES

As your internet provider, Glide are the best people to speak to regarding any issues you may have with the internet. Glide have a 24/7 multi-language support team to help get you back online. There are several way sto reach out them:

iTunes App Store - https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/studentcom/id1173948422

Google Play Store - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.routethis.glide

LOG A MAINTENANCE REQUEST

Unless it is an emergency, all maintenance issues should be logged through the form below where you can upload images.

MAINTENANCE REQUEST

Any New Maintenance requests will NOT be accepted by phone call or text unless it is an Emergency and poses an immediate danger to you, anyone else or the property.

MAINTENANCE TIMESCALES

We will always resolve your issue as soon and as practically possible but in any event you can refer to our timescales below:

  1. Emergency - attended to within 24 hours. Repair problems that are a danger to health or safety of the tenant or the property. Please call 0121 798 9168
  2. Urgent - completed within 1-5 working days. Repair problems that could potentially endanger the health and safety of the tenant or the property.
  3. Routine - completed within 10 working days. Repair problems that have no direct danger to health or safety, but if left will cause other repair difficulties.
  4. Non essential - completed within 90 working days. Disrepair that will have no detrimental effect to the property or the person.

USER GUIDES

Please follow the link below for some helpful guides to your fridge freezer, oven, hob, thermostat, shower, video intercome system and setting up access to your letterbox.

Click for USER GUIDES

Click for Energy Performace Certificate

CLEANING

You are responsible for keeping your studio apartment clean throughout your stay. A weekly cleaner will be attending the residence to ensure the communal areas and Residents' Lounge is spick and span but in the meantime make sure you do your part for example by disposing of any litter, putting chairs back in the residents’ lounge or wiping down any spilt drinks.

This checklist is what we normally provide on check-out however we thought you may find it useful to refer to throughout your stay.

Cleaning Tips and Checklist

BINS/WASTE DISPOSAL

The bin store is located next to the entrance lobby and you will find bins for general waste and bins for recycling paper and cardboard.

What you can put in your paper recycling:

cereal boxes and thin cards; junk mail and envelopes; telephone directories; yellow pages; newspapers; cardboard (flattened)

What you can’t put in your paper recycling: milk, juice and tetra pack cartons; padded envelopes; soiled paper or card; pizza boxes

The Code for the bin store is C1678 and C1568.

GOT MAIL?

Letterbox Instructions

The number on the postbox corresponds to your apartment number.

To create your user code:

1.Select any 4 digit user code. Make sure you make a note of this! 2.Ensure the lock is in the open position with the # button visible which is located under the handle. 3.For first time users open the letterbox by entering “2244” 4.Once opened, press “#” then “2244” and then your chosen 4 digit user code, twice. For example, if you want to set your user code to 1234 enter: #224412341234

There is no concierge to collect mail/packages. If you are not going to be in we would recommend that you arrange for a neighbour to accept your delivery or arrange for the delivery to made to a collection point. You can also connect your phone to your video intercom to accept deliveries into teh building.

 
 

LEAVING BRIDGE STREET STUDIOS

WHEN DO I HAVE TO CHECK-OUT OF MY APARTMENT?

You must check-out by 12noon on the last day of your tenancy.

You will need to complete the checkout form which you can complete here:

www.volume.property/checkingout

CAN I LEAVE EARLY?

You can leave whenever you want however your contract with us is a fixed term agreement and therefore you will remain liable for the full duration, even if you leave early.

You do have the option to find a suitable replacement tenant. There is no obligation on our part to find you a replacement tenant. You can advertise your accommodation or undertake your own search for a replacement tenant. If you find a replacement tenant they will need to complete the same booking process.

Before we will accept a new tenant your account and all obligations need to be up to date and any rent due up to the changeover will need to be paid.

Once the new person has signed the tenancy agreement and made the first rent payment they will take responsibility for future rent payments and all other obligations as stated in the tenancy agreement.

We reserve the right to charge you a fee in the sum of £100 as a contribution towards our administration costs incurred in dealing with the surrender of the Tenancy Agreement and the sourcing of a new resident.

 

CONTACT US

HOW CAN I CONTACT YOU?

You may find us in the office located on the Upper Ground Floor but the best way to reach us is by call or email.

Our Office Hours are Monday - Friday between 9am - 5pm. However there is an emergency line which operates 24/7.

Call - 0121 285 9490

Email - Admin@Volume.Property