Homes for Students Powis Place — Hotel in Aberdeen City

Absolutely awful. I was locked out of my flat due to a fire alarm going off in the building (which by the way goes off once every other day) causing some form of malfunction with my key card/the key reader. Because it was evening, the reception wasn't open but one of the student wardens got in touch with one of the staff who essentially said they couldn't do anything since the locksmith was not reachable at the moment and probably wouldn't be until the next morning (absolutely ludicrous to have one single locksmith in charge of the entire building who's only available during day time- usually it would be considered to be especially essential for a locksmith to be available at more inconvenient times given the nature of the business). Nevertheless, I thought I would turn to their 24 H help desk, but they said they were not able to do anything about it either and offered no alternative solutions whatsoever. I then came up with the suggestion that I myself could call another locksmith that would be open at the time or alternatively check in at an hotel for the night and then be reimbursed for the cost. They said I could try either option but that I would likely have to cover the costs myself. Since I'm of course a student and don't have the luxury of spending that kind of money I instead was forced to sleep in the reception in nothing but my pyjamas and my phone at hand with no access to a charger, running water, possibility of using a bathroom etc. It was not until the next morning I was able to hear back from a friend who I could go to. When I alerted the staff about this the following morning and asked them for reassurance that this would not happen again, what actions would be taken to prevent this from happening/what procedures are in place should a similar situation arise. They blamed faulty communication, said that "it shouldn't happen again" but couldn't provide any concrete plans as for how this would actually be corrected and assured.

I cannot stress enough how absolutely unacceptable this is in so many aspects. It is firstly a complete failure and breach as a service provider. As the Tenant I am, as stated in the letting contract, entitled to the rights of using the Building Common Parts, Building Contents and Services (including Maintenance, Repair and Insurance of the Building). This is NOT the case when I am unable to access my flat and moreover neglected the help to do so. If not for common decency, it is definitely expected that you as the Landlord will deliver on what you are obliged to by contract, to me as a paying costumer. You also claim that you offer 'onsite security' and '24 H security'- but this is evidently not the case. Secondly, it is not only a breach of agreement but a complete breach of safety and security. How come there is such an utter lack of proper procedure in place? It's extremely concerning to witness such inadequate safety procedures considering that you are housing young students, many of whom are not native to the city nor language and completely without a security net on their own. Thirdly, you would think that after such a failure on so many accounts some sort of compensation would be offered, but this was not the case. In fact, any compensation for the 'inconvenience' was denied. I was offered a 10£ reimbursement for the taxi fare I took the next morning to my friends flat (just so that I wouldn't have to attend my morning class in pyjamas), but wasn't even paid that as promised. Lastly, it is really beyond my comprehension how this situation has been handled not only given what an absolute failure and disgrace this is for anyone who wishes to call themselves a respectable and serious service provider, but because of how extremely morally questionable this is. How can you not only as an employee, but as an adult human being, not feel a sense of responsibility for a young student who is left out on her own for an entire night?

There is no other way to describe this than AN ABSOLUTE SHITSHOW. It is truly beyond any criticism. Do yourselves a favor- and never stay at...

Powis place is a snazzy accomodation about 15 minutes from the city centre and Aberdeen University. There is a contemporary lounge area with seating and games, great for meeting other students living in the building. The wash facilities are reasonably priced and are open 24/7. The interior designers have done an immaculate job of creating a good balance between modern and minimalist. They have a variety of rooms, the studio flats have everything a student may need in a contained room. I would recommend the shared flats for more social people and first years. They have a very spacious shared kitchen with several amenities, including recycling bins and a television. The bedrooms are en-suite, unlike many showers in usual accomodation, the water pressure is top shelf. The beds are 3/4 size and come with a study area and huge windows that allow for alot of natural light. There are student wardens that are there at all hours of the day for if are problems arise and the building has one of the best security systems I've seen in any accomodation since coming to Aberdeen. The receptionist is very friendly and makes coming to a unknown city for the first time much easier. Kimberly fulfils her job description and so much more, caring for the occupants wellbeing and providing quality chat too. Steven, who also works at reception goes out of his way to make sure everything is in order. The flats are inexpensive for their location and are fantastic value. I would wholly recommend this accomodation to other students and I've had a fabulous time...

I love my flat here. I have a large en-suite and is absolutely massive for a room in student accommodation. I always get compliments about how nice the building is from friends and family and I have an absolutely stunning view from my flat's kitchen window. As an art student, I need a large desk space so that I can fit materials/sketchbooks/printers/laptops and I definitely have enough space here. I also have plenty of desk storage and it's lit really nicely for when I'm working (or applying my makeup for a night out!)

I've never had any issues with the internet here or the facilities like the showers or the heating! I've never had a cold room since coming here and my bed is comfier than the one that I have at home!

The location is great also. While I drive to university (Robert Gordon University), it takes around 20 minutes to drive there but if you attend University of Aberdeen, you can definitely walk! Wouldn't take longer than 10 minutes! You're also close enough to the city centre that I have always been able to walk into town for a night out rather than have to get a lift or anything. This also means that if you have to walk into the city centre to get a bus to anywhere in Aberdeen, it's not too far away.

We also have the loveliest staff here - Steven and Kimberly. They've always been super friendly whenever I have been in the reception and have always helped out if I needed help with anything. Can't thank...