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The Best Landlords in Leeds 2020

11/09/2020

The 2020 Rate Your Landlord winners have been announced.

This was the fourth Rate Your Landlord Awards ceremony, with the great landlords of Leeds being recognised by their own tenants for their ongoing commitment to providing consistently high quality private student accommodation. This year the event was hosted on Facebook.

2020 winners were announced online 10/09/2020

Voted for solely by students, make sure to check out these landlords when you’re searching for accommodation:

The winning landlord with more than 10 properties reviewed is:

Sue Michaels – Leeds Student Houses

The winning landlord with 2-9 properties reviewed is:

Graham Nichols

The winning landlords with 1 property reviewed are:

Alan and Nina Johnson

The winning Purpose Built Student Accommodation provider is:

Downing Students

The winning Purpose Built Student Accommodation building is:

University of Leeds

The winning Managing Agent is:

Ashfield Properties (Leeds) Ltd

The most improved landlord is

Parklane Properties (Leeds) Ltd

andd the landlord of the year, chosen by LBSU’s Mphango Simwaka and Kay Rhoden-campbell and LUU’s Lottie Morton and Franks Feng

Lingard Bell

Last but not least, a new award has been given for…

The most helpful landlord during Covid-19

DHM Properties

Thanks to all who came to the awards last night. Congratulations to all the winners!

We hope to see you again next year!

Just get in touch, we won't bite

Find Out More

Angie Pearce

Finance Assistant - Purchase Ledger

I am responsible for coding and processing of invoices within Unipol.

I never went to university so being able to see inside this sector is really interesting to me after coming from a gaming background from the past 25yrs.

Outside of work I have my hands full with 3 teenage daughters plus a cat, so I’m constantly broke but do enjoy the theatre and have recently been tagging along with the kids to music festivals and concerts!

Lucila Ugarteche

Customer Service Advisor - PBSA: Oak House

Nim Yi Lau

Design Officer

Hi, my name is Nim Yi (Bobo) and I am the Design Officer.

I am responsible for designing deliverables with different content. I studied graphic design at Leeds Art University, and I'm originally from Hong Kong.

In my spare time I enjoy travelling, attending events and spending time with my friends.

John Oates

Property Manager

I work as a Housing Manager for the Housing Team. I’m here to assist tenants on their varying needs and to ensure that the properties are up to the promised company standards. I have had experience in housing and accommodations for nearly 5 years.

It is also my role to be a first point of contact in regards to repair issues and health and safety. Anytime an issue arises I can take the necessary steps to ensuring the resolution of those issues in a timely and appropriate level.

In my free time I am a massive fan of Warhammer 40k and its various hobby related content. Painting a lot of miniature soldiers in the pile of shame

Alex Threlfall

Utilities and Sustainability Coordinator

I work in the finance team managing the meter collection process.

I am a University of Leeds biology graduate. In my free time I enjoy going to see live music and playing tennis.

Kirk Godber

Applications Developer

I maintain and where required, upgrade Unipol’s software systems as well as the creation of new systems.

Andrew Chapman

Finance Manager

In Unipol I am currently covering for the Finance Manager position until November 2024 when I’ll revert back to my permanent position as Assistant Finance Manager - Expenditure.

Outside of work I’m quite into sports where mostly I watch a lot of varying levels of football. I like to keep active, so play football/swim/go to the gym, but I am also equally as happy spending time at home with my cats or talking about cats in general

Judith Duce

Building Manager

Hi, I’m Judith and I’m working as a Building Manager for Unipol properties on Mill Street and New York Street in Leeds. My aim is to provide students with a safe and comfortable home from home when living with Unipol.

Outside of work I really enjoy spending time with my family – going on holiday or out for a meal with them. I also enjoy baking and generally being creative

James McMenemy

Maintenance Technician

Amy Lawson

User Experience Marketing Coordinator

My main role is to promote the services that Unipol offer to both students and landlords.

This includes promoting the Unipol Code, the accommodation search, and events.

I am always looking for new and creative ways to appeal to an audience in a continuously changing market.

I am an identical twin and in my spare time I enjoy travelling abroad, camping, and spending time with my husband and my Labrador Marshall.

Sarah Morgan

Operations Manager

Ellie Laverton

Property Manager

Hi, I’m Ellie and I’m working as a Housing Management Officer. I manage a portfolio of properties in Leeds.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, live music and going on long walks with my dog

Nicola Hogan

Maintenance Technician

Jo MacNaughton

Accommodation Services Officer

I run the Unipol services in Bradford and this includes assisting students to find accommodation in the private rented sector, running the Code and managing Doris Birdsall Hall.

Away from work I love to travel. I like heavy metal music but I don't like spiders.

Sam Noakes

Property Manager

Hi, I’m Sam and I am the Housing Management Officer for Cotton House. It’s my job to ensure the effective management of the building throughout and between tenancies.

In my spare time, I enjoy watching football, going to the gym and gaming with the boys.

Sarah Woodroff

Health and Safety Coordinator

I am responsible for helping the Housing Team Leader with health and safety admin.

I moved to Leeds in 2006 to study Law at University of Leeds and have lived here ever since. I currently work part-time whilst studying to become a therapist.

In my spare time I enjoy spending quality time with my young daughter and going for long walks with my two dogs. I also volunteer helping children from Japan learn English.

Nikki Verity

Interim Chief Executive

I have responsibility for the operational oversight, the co-ordination of all Unipol’s services and important aspects of the charity’s governance.

I work closely with the senior leadership team to ensure that Unipol offers a high quality service to all of its users and delivers on its values, commitments, operational efficiency and strategic plans.

I have worked in a senior leadership role since 2003, most recently as the Chief Executive Officer of a leading Leeds based charity supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, where I worked with many partners, including the Local Authority, the Care Quality Commission and the National Health Service.

When I’m not at work you will probably find me having fun with my children, we love being outdoors enjoying wonderful Yorkshire.

Will Beers

Customer Service Advisor - Sandhills

Sam Jackson

Assistant Finance Manager - Expenditure

My role has a strong focus on ensuring expenditure flows through the business properly and creating useful, relevant management accounts to help the wider Unipol team understand how budgets are being utilised.

I have a degree in Music Production and a strong interest in sport being a particularly keen climber. Outside of work you'll either find me noodling on my guitar, at a gig, gaming, or spending time with my family.

Ivy Mwadime

Customer Service Advisor - PBSA: Carlton Hill

Andrew Livesey

IT & Publications Director

I look after two areas in Unipol. The IT team which provides in house support for staff; maintaining an array of services & hardware, developing bespoke software. We also make sure our tenants are getting the best possible internet service.

The Communications team work to promote Unipol’s services and properties to different audiences in Leeds, Bradford and Nottingham. It also creates publications, designs and video / motion content.

Alhassan Abdulhamid

Housing Hub Assistant

Hi! I am Alhassan Abdulhamid and I work as a Unipol Housing Hub Assistants in Bradford. In the Hub, I passionately work to supports my fellow students to meet their accommodation needs. Likewise, I offer numerous assistance and guidance to landlords who wish to partner with the Unipol to support students accommodations.

I am currently a full time student at the University of Bradford conducting PhD research in Computer Sciences with major in reliability and cyber security of Internet of Things Technology.

Out of study schedule, I love engaging others in meaningful conversations on issues for common interest, visiting places and adventures in general.

Kate Kramers

Housing Hub Advisor

Absaar Choudhoury

Housing Hub Assistant

Hi there! My name is Absaar and I am working at Unipol as a Housing Hub Assistant. My job role consists of helping students like me find their dream accommodation so they can feel as close to home as possible.

I love exercising by playing football and going to the gym. I enjoy watching movies and like to keep myself busy.

Hameed Qayyum

ICT Support Technician

Working alongside the IT Team I help support the Unipol environment through best practices and fit for purpose IT systems.

Nicola Brown

Hub Services Director

I am responsible for leading, developing and delivering an efficient and consumer friendly service in Unipol's Hub facilities including Leeds, Bradford and Nottingham. This involves working closely with Unipol's stakeholders in each city to ensure we deliver the best possible advice and choice for their students when it comes to choosing their accommodation and supporting them during their stay.

Furthermore I enjoy developing and expanding Unipol's relationships with the accommodation providers who use our services; the communities in which our students live and working with other equally important stakeholders such as local government and landlord associations.

I am a vegetarian and enjoy live music, trekking, yoga and running. I love skiing.

Veronika Ortegel

Sales Manager

I am responsible for coordinating and undertaking a number of key tasks within the Unipol housing team including staffing, staff training, lettings, licensing, and partners’ relations.

I also deal with complaints about the delivery of Unipol's housing management service and oversee the allocations made by the educational institutions in to Unipol developments through nomination arrangements.

Away from work, I enjoy hiking and travelling.

Adaobi Akpamgbo

Property Manager

Hi, I’m Ada and I work with Unipol as a Housing Management Officer in Leeds. I currently manage a portfolio of family houses. My job is to ensure a convenient and enjoyable stay for all tenants. I am a property and facility management professional with several years of experience.

In my spare time I love to travel, watch movies, and listen to country music.

Grace Bower

Customer Service Advisor - Sandhills

Ella Sonei

Customer Service Advisor - Cotton House

Jakub Pietruszewski

Housing Team Leader

I have been managing Unipol’s large student developments since 2010 and I have used this specialist knowledge in my work as an ANUK verifier since 2013.

I manage Cotton House, a beautiful historic building refurbished September 2023.

I am passionate about the student sector and aim to use my skills and expertise to continue improving the quality and overall experience in student accommodation.
In personal life, I love high fidelity audio and travelling, bringing back a particular piece a stationery from every city I visit - a humble pencil.

Jess Carrier

National Codes Coordinator

My main role is assisting with administering and promoting the National Codes. This includes keeping the National Code website up to date, and maintaining links with external partners such as UUK.

I joined Unipol after being Welfare and Community Officer at Leeds Beckett Students’ Union for 2 years.

I studied Politics at Leeds Beckett, and outside of work I enjoy reading, going to gigs and watching rugby.

Elizabeth Smith

Finance Director

I am a qualified CIMA management accountant and a business graduate.

I like to spend my down time with my three children either on my allotment or walking Elvis the dog.I am a Chartered Management Accountant and have worked at Unipol since 2013. My role is to oversee the financial management of the charity and all that it entails. Previous roles in industry include John Lewis, Diebold and Ventura (Next Group).

Blessing Odususi

Customer Service Advisor - PBSA: Grayson Heights

Matthew Brook

Property Manager

I manage a portfolio of properties in and around central Leeds.

Outside of work I like spending time with family and friends, watching football and I'm a keen pub quiz-goer (albeit very bad).

Victoria Tolmie - Loverseed

Interim Deputy Chief Executive & Company Secretary

My role involves improving the standard and management of student housing across the UK through two areas of our work: Unipol Training and accreditation under the Unipol Codes. I am involved in some leasing and property acquisitions, and am a surveyor by training. I am also the Company Secretary with responsibility for governance arrangements. Before joining Unipol in 2005, I was the Welfare Officer at Leeds University Union.

My spare time is taken up looking after my two young sons and picking Lego up off the carpet, but in a previous life I enjoyed playing tennis, dancing and going to gigs.

Chris Moore

Maintenance Technician

I carry out repairs in our properties. I went to the University of life meaning I've watched and learned off every trademan going. I can turn my hand to most things.

In my spare time I enjoy going on holidays, gardening & walking.

Sian Carry

Finance Officer - Utilities

Shanae Mcdonald

Lettings Coordinator

I am responsible for dealing with all the lettings enquiries and I am usually the first point of contact when you are enquiring about our properties. My role also includes assisting tenants with the application process and I deal with the allocations of the properties. I am also the person who conducts and arranges viewings for our portfolio.

I moved from Leicester to Leeds in 2021 and studied Counselling and Mental Health at Leeds Beckett University. Outside of work I enjoy travelling, going to concerts, spending quality time with family & friends and playing video games with my girlfriend.

Mat Ward

Facilities Coordinator

I moved from Grimsby to study Philosophy at the University of Leeds and have since adopted Leeds as my home.

In my spare time I enjoy climbing and live music.

Tally Lovato

Customer Service Advisor - Cotton House

Katie Morton

Health, Safety & Compliance Manager

I work within the Housing Team and verify that the necessary compliance and health and safety checks are made across Unipol's portfolio and in the Unipol offices.

I help to organise the summer turnaround of properties, with family accommodation, and plenty more.

Outside of work I volunteer with Girlguiding and have been a Guide Leader for over 10 years, I am currently looking forward to getting back to camping and international trips. I enjoy roller skating, reading, live music and the theatre (mainly musicals!), and on occasion eating my body weight in sweets.

Ella Corr

Marketing Assistant (1yr Placement)

I am on my Year in Industry at Unipol, working within the marketing team. My role involves helping plan and create campaigns, building brand awareness, and bringing a deeper understanding of what students want – being one myself.

I moved from the Wirral to Leeds in 2022 to study Business Management at the University of Leeds. After my placement year I have one year left until my degree is completed.

Outside of work, I spend as much time as I can with my family, especially my 2 nans and my nephews.

Toria Thomas

Tenancy Support and Wellbeing Coordinator

I am one of two Tenancy Support and Wellbeing Coordinators here at Unipol. My role involves giving help, support, advice and guidance to students who are experiencing issues, either personal or with a co-tenant. I’m here to assist with any concerns, anxieties of difficulties.

In my own time, I love seeing live music, playing video games or playing with my four cats. If you ever want to start up a conversation with me, feel free to mention Animal Crossing, My Chemical Romance, Good Omens or Our Flag Means Death and I won’t shut up for hours!

Zoe Brown

Health, Safety & Compliance Administrator

I am a Housing Management Officer based at Oak House.

Since I had a baby in 2013, I decided to return to work part time. I enjoy working with students as the they keep the city alive with energy and ambition.

Emma Barnett

Customer Service Advisor - PBSA: Carlton Hill

Sophie Postlethwaite

Deputy Director of Finance

I am responsible for supporting the Finance Director in facilitating the successful completion of all system improvements and projects within the Finance team. It is my role to support the team in the development of processes and improving efficiencies. I also provide assistance with our statutory reporting and annual audit.

I am a graduate of the University of Birmingham with a degree in Ancient History and have more recently completed the CIMA qualification.

Outside of work you will find me enjoying a walk with my family (the best ones finish with a pub stop!).

Sally Ramsey

Marketing and Sales Director

Taja Brady

Customer Service Advisor - PBSA: Oak House

I provide administrative support within the housing team.

I am originally from San Francisco, but moved to Leeds after University. I work part time and spend most of my free time looking after my 2 children. I enjoy spending time in the countryside and listening to classical music.

Harry Whitaker

Assistant Finance Manager – Income

I am responsible for managing Unipol’s cash flow, ensuring we can meet our existing financial obligations as well as planning for the future. I also oversee the debt collection process and assist with creating rent budgets.

I have a Professional Diploma in Accounting. Outside of work, I love to travel and go on long walks with my dog – Alfie.

Becky Harlow

HR Support Officer

Matt Allison

Unipol Codes Administrator

I am responsible for promoting, developing and administering the Unipol Codes, as well as verifying that required standards are being met.

I studied Music Technology at Leeds Beckett and outside of work you'll usually find me doing something musical, reading, or planning travels.

Paul Laing

Senior Finance Officer - Income

I control the flow of information between our Housing Team and Finance Office, ensuring contracts and sales items are managed, deposits are protected, managed owner payments are correctly reconciled and financial accounting information is accurate.

I have one young daughter who's into dancing and acting and this takes up most of any spare time I have.

Claire Hunter

Conference and Visits Administrator

I am responsible for the planning, implementation and running of Unipol’s online and in person training events and conferences. I ensure the delegate training experience is as smooth as possible, from a simple booking process all the way to attendance at an event.

Outside of work I enjoy watching live music and comedy shows, playing netball and spending time with family and friends.

Laura Cryer

Operations Manager

I manage a portfolio of family and post graduate housing at Royal Park Road Flats and Grayson Heights.

My responsibilities also include Health & Safety for Offices and Staff and Planned Preventative Maintenance.

I have two young children who keep me occupied in my spare time but I also enjoy running and trying to keep fit.

Rocelle Castillo

Social Media & Events Coordinator

Hi, I’m Rocelle.

I’m the face behind Unipol’s social media content and events programme. I'm dedicated to creating a vibrant community that enhances the living experience for our student tenants. My role is all about creatively communicating Unipol’s values across all our social media platforms and bringing people together through fun and memorable events.

I’m into fashion and love to be creative. I also enjoy cooking/baking, keeping fit through dance and yoga, and spending quality time travelling with friends and family.

Nadia Khan

Administrative Officer

I am the administrative officer for Unipol, I perform all administrative and clerical tasks necessary for Unipol, I am here to make everyone lives a bit more easier when it comes to providing administrative support and managing any queries therefore I will be the main point of contact for everyone. Some of the day to day duties include managing office supplies stock and placing orders, maintaining calendars, scheduling appointments and distributing/storing correspondence.

I have a degree in Human Resource Management and Business at Leeds Beckett University and in my spare time I like to bake and to make as much memories as I can with my family and friends.

Lynne Wilson

Housing Hub Advisor

I am Lynne and I work as a Housing Hub Advisor. I work in the Hub assisting students, landlords and contractors with their queries face to face, on the phone and via web chat.

It is also my role to work closely with the Student Unions and Leeds City Council to ensure that students and landlords feel well supported. I am a qualified mediator and I have worked with students in Leeds for over 20 years.

Outside of work I love going to the theatre, visiting new places and going on long walks with my dog.

Hannah Blades

Housing Hub Advisor

I assist students with house hunting, offer guidance and advice around issues they may be facing in code landlord properties and any other queries they have (I know the good coffee & brunch spots)! On the flip side of this, I assist landlords with advertising their properties and advise them on any issues they may be having with tenants or their properties throughout the year.

I worked for Unipol throughout my studies in many different roles and have worked for the charity for nearly 4 years now!

Outside of work I’m a singer songwriter so am usually attending gigs or song writing/producing music somewhere! I also enjoy running, yoga & climbing!

Beth Lewis

Administrative and Customer Service Assistant

Tom Hill

Operations Director

I am responsible for setting and delivering the managerial and operational housing strategy and the operation of the housing management systems in Leeds, Nottingham & Bradford. My role involves leading, co-ordinating, supervising, guiding and monitoring the whole housing management team, including our marketing and lettings policy and overseeing its implementation, managing the deployment of resources within Unipol's housing portfolio.

Outside of work, when I am not looking after my own kids, I coach an under 14s kids football team. If I get some time for myself I love hiking and cycling and getting out into the countryside.

Victoria Peckitt

Complaints and Code Investigator

I help students who are experiencing problems with their tenancy. I can assist with the formal complaints procedure and carry out Code Inspections to make sure Landlords comply fully with the terms of the Code.

I also assist the Tenancy Support and Wellbeing Coordinator, helping with a wide range of issues. I studied Architecture, English and Philosophy. Out of work I enjoy spending time with family and friends, listening to music, DIY and gardening.

Megan Ewan

Finance Operations and Project Assistant

I’m on my Year in Industry at Unipol, with the finance team. My role involves helping with finance enquiries, finance checks, and generally helping fellow students with any finance related worries. I also process supplier invoices for the purchase ledger and will be undertaking projects to help with efficiency.

I am pursing a degree in Mathematics at the University of Leeds, and in my spare time you’ll find me at local independent coffee shops (probably buying a dying plant to rescue). I also enjoy countryside walks, gigs and hanging out with my friends.

Thom Woodroff

Facilities Manager

I am responsible for the purchasing of Unipol's furniture and appliances. I also arrange the routine servicing of the gas and electricity supplies as well as general health and safety inspections that take place in our properties.

I manage a portfolio of family housing at Woodsley Terrace and Mount Preston Street. Outside of work my main interests are films, music and sport.

Simon Kemp

National Code Administrator

I administer the two National Codes that set benchmark standards for the management of student halls of residence.

This entails ensuring that the National Codes website is up to date, servicing the committee that oversees the day-to-day operations of the codes and making sure that members comply with the requirements of the Code.

I am also a campanologist which I do all over the country.

Jo Dearlove

Customer Service Advisor - PBSA: Mill Street

Anwar Akin-Adedotun

Housing Hub Assistant

Peter Hughes

Building Manager

I’m the Senior Housing Management Officer responsible for Carlton Hill, Unipol’s newest accommodation in Leeds. I moved to Leeds in 2016 to study English, and liked the city so much I never left.

When I’m not working you’ll normally see me around campus or the local countryside with music on and my head in a book.

David Bond

Building Manager

My day to day duties mostly involves managing a first year halls of residence as well as a portfolio of houses.

Since coming to Leeds for university I have now made Yorkshire my home. In my spare time I enjoy anything outdoors - but am prone to a quiet night in with a movie or game.

Tony Vyse

Development and Compliance Director

Whilst leading the Facilities and Health & Safety team to adhere to Compliance, I also drive the strategic development, maintenance and refurbishment of the existing property portfolio and continuing to increase the housing stock and grow Unipol’s operations.

In my spare time, I enjoy watching football, boxing, and all motorsports. Challenging myself on long hikes and just generally being outdoors. Spending time with my boys on a weekend is the most enjoyable part of my free time.

Aimee Hart

Marketing and Engagement Manager

I am responsible for overseeing Unipol’s annual marketing and student engagement strategy, working with departments across the charity to undertake campaigns to raise Unipol’s profile in all three cities. I lead the Marketing Team who also plan and run an exciting ResLife calendar for Unipol tenants.

Outside of work you’ll usually find me on my yoga mat, hiking in the countryside, at a gig, or relaxing with my cat Ruby.

Bernadette Baker

Building Manager

Having worked in the PBSA sector over many years, I joined Unipol in 2023. I now manage our Sandhills accommodation in Nottingham, ensuring the safe running of the site, and getting to know the students.

I enjoy meeting new people, trying new experiences, cooking & travelling. I love being outdoors and going on long walks, exploring new places.

Sam Hughes

Customer Service Advisor - PBSA: Mill Street

I work in the Housing Hub. I’m here to assist students with any house hunting challenges that they might come across and can offer advice on any other queries they might have. I also work closely with code and non-code landlords, helping them to advertise their properties and offer guidance on any other queries.

I have worked a variety of roles within Unipol since arriving to study in Leeds.

Outside of Unipol, I study Jazz at Leeds Conservatoire and enjoy getting to do a wide variety of gigs and session work across different genres. I also enjoy the gym, Nights out and spending time with Family and Friends; Partying, Hiking, Climbing and playing golf back home in Scotland.

James Harrison

Senior ICT Officer

I ensure day to day end user support services are delivered efficiently and to a high standard.

Away from work I enjoying Video Games, Model building, Formula One, and anything technical.

Beth Murphy

Tenancy Support and Wellbeing Coordinator

I am one of the Tenancy Support and Wellbeing Coordinators for Unipol and I am based in the Nottingham Hub. My role involves supporting individuals through any challenges or issues they may face during their time residing with Unipol, ensuring that all students feel safe and content within their university living environment.

I was previously a student at Nottingham Trent University and therefore have existing knowledge, interest and passion for the City and supporting others through their time at University.

In my spare time, I love being outdoors in the sunshine (when we’re blessed with its presence), walking in the countryside and spending time with friends and family

Tom Taylor

Housing Services Team Leader

I’m Tom, Housing Services Team Leader in Nottingham. I am responsible for overseeing some of the portfolio we manage in Nottingham as well as being responsible for ensuring we are compliant Health and Safety wise.

I am originally from Leeds and studied film and television at Staffordshire University. I'm a season ticket holder for Nottingham Forest and enjoying running, however I don't like being too hot - two things that don't always go hand in hand.

Matthew Jackson

Finance Assistant - Cash Book

I am responsible for the daily reconciliation of our cash book.

I studied Peace Studies at the University of Bradford a very long time ago.

Outside of work I enjoy going to gigs, reading, drawing and gaming, along with the odd bit of weight lifting. I also listen to an unhealthy amount of true crime podcasts.

Joanne Hayton

Rent Collection Officer

I manage the rent collection system, take payments over the phone, process contracts and return deposits after tenancies have ended.

Away from work I have been known to do a bit of fishing and I also enjoy swimming and walking and love to holiday as much as I can.

Meet the Team

The Best Landlords in Leeds 2020

Last but not least, a new award has been given for…

DHM Properties

Thanks to all who came to the awards last night. Congratulations to all the winners!We hope to see you again next year!

Thanks to all who came to the awards last night. Congratulations to all the winners!

We hope to see you again next year!