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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

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.

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.

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.

Anwar Akin-Adedotun

Housing Hub 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Tally Lovato

Customer Service Advisor - Cotton House

Sally Ramsey

Marketing and Sales Director

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.

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

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!).

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.