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Living off campus presents new challenges; there will be bills to pay, daily chores to do, potential roommate conflicts to resolve, and non-student neighbors to meet and live with cooperatively. Off-campus students will tackle many of these issues without the convenience of a residence life staff to assist them. 

On this page, you will find helpful information about locating the right apartment, moving in and out of your apartment, understanding and signing a lease, and important information for students considering living off campus.

Cost

• Is the asking price within the market value for units of the same size and location?
• Is the price negotiable?
• Is there a refundable security deposit?
• Are utilities and/or furnishings included?

Space

• How many bedrooms are there? Does anyone have to share? Who?
• How many closets are there per person?
• Is there space for everyone's furniture in the living room?
• Is there study space? Room for computers?
• How many bathrooms are there? Is that number sufficient for the morning rush before classes?
• Is the kitchen big enough for everyone to use at the same time?

Exterior

• Are there enough exterior lights?
• Are there screens on every window?
• Are the windows double-paned? Are there working locks on every window?
• Are there enough fire exits?
• How many parking spaces are there?
• How safe is the area at night?

Interior

• How is the condition of the walls and ceiling?
• Does the apartment have carpets or hardwood floors?
• Are the walls and windows well insulated?
• How many and where are the electrical outlets? 
• How many and where are the phone jacks? Is there more than one phone line?
• Are there laundry facilities?
• Is the apartment wired for television and/or the internet?  

Plumbing

• Do the sinks and tubs drain properly?
• Do the faucet knobs work?
• Do you get the appropriate amount of hot and cold water?
• Is there enough water pressure?
• Are there water stains on the walls, ceilings or floors from leaks?
• Do the toilets flush properly?

Heat

• Is there a source of heat in each room?
• Can you control the heat?

Safety

• Are there deadbolt locks on the exterior door? 
• Are there two exits in case of a fire?
• Does the unit meet all safety code guidelines?
• Is there adequate lighting in the stairwells and hallways?
• Are there smoke detectors?
• If the unit uses natural gas are there carbon monoxide detectors?
• What condition are the appliances in?
• Is the landscaping well maintained or are there "dark spots" on the property?
• What is the condition of the walkways, steps, stairs? 

Other

• What is the reputation of your landlord? Does he or she have a reputation for being responsive?
• Is he or she available to you?
• What conditions have to be met to get your deposit back?
• Are pets allowed? If yes, do the current occupants have a pet?
• Will the apartment be cleaned by a third party before your occupancy?