STUDENTS at an East Oxford letting agency will have to sign a “good behaviour” pledge before picking up their keys.

And if they break it they’ll get a letter sent home to mum and dad.

The bond, drawn up by Premier Lettings, is in response to increased tensions between students and residents in the area due to noisy parties and rowdy behaviour.

News of the special clause, that will affect about 300 homes, has been welcomed by East Oxford residents and Oxford City Council.

Premier Lettings owner Jan Bartlett said agents had a responsibility to help tackle concerns of homeowners.

She said: “Having lived and worked in the area myself for well over 30 years, I do really understand the difficulties some local residents face.”

By signing the pact, tenants promise their new neighbours they will keep party noise to a minimum, cut out bad language and make no noise outside the property after 11pm.

They will also have to promise to do all they can to rectify any complaint raised by neighbours.

Tenants must also keep their rubbish and recycling bins clean and tidy.

Mrs Bartlett added: “We have always inserted a clause in tenancy agreements informing tenants of their obligations, but we feel the time has come to emphasise this as a matter of significant importance, and if we do receive reports of problems regarding a property where the ‘pact’ has been signed, we can, if necessary, in the case of students, contact their guarantors to apply extra pressure on the residents, and to encourage them to behave in a more responsible manner.”

East Avenue resident Penelope Newsome said it was a step in the right direction.

She added: “The agents should set a good example to students.”

In January, Oxford City Council will become one of the first local authorities to roll out a new licensing scheme for house of multiple occupation (HMOs) as it seeks to tackle both anti-social tenants and rogue landlords. But the scheme has been opposed by some city landlords and agents, who threatened a High Court action against the council.