Off-Campus Housing Program
Did you know:
- that leases are typically May to May or September to September?
- you could be responsible for utilities, cable and internet separately?
- that your security deposit cannot legally exceed the cost of 1 1/2 month's rent?
The information and resources provided through the Off-Campus Housing Program are for University of Michigan students who choose to reside in rental properties that are not owned, operated, or maintained by University Housing.
While this site is not the only resource you might use to look for an off-campus room, apartment or house, the landlords and management companies offering properties on our listings have agreed to tenant/landlord mediation through the University should the need arise.
Before You Begin Your Search
Before you begin, you should consider the following factors. They will help you make an informed decision and eliminate surprises later.
- Don’t be pressured into signing your lease too early. A lease is a binding legal agreement that cannot be broken.
- Most off-campus housing leases are for a 12-month period and typically run from May to May or September to September. You will be responsible for the entire lease period.
- Security deposits cannot be greater than 1.5 month’s rent.
- Before you sign the lease, do a complete review of the space, noting any damaged or missing items. You’ll want to negotiate with the landlord to make these repairs/replacements a part of the lease agreement. It will also protect you from being charged for these damages when you move out. Use our handy inventory checklist.
- Who will your roommate/s be? Remember that you will be living with them for twelve months. Do they have the same commitment to academics? Can you agree on quiet times, chores, visitors?
- What will you do if one of your roommates chooses to withdraw or participate in a study abroad program?
- What will you do with your room or apartment during the summer months?
- If you choose to sublet, do you understand the implications and do all roommates agree? Check your lease before you sign to be sure there are no restrictions and to understand any guidelines you’ll have to follow.
- How far away from campus are you willing to go? Don’t forget to look into bus schedules or parking options, if necessary.
- Living off campus means that you could be responsible for utilities, cable and internet. Our best advice is to have any potential landlord specify—in writing—what will be included in your rent.
- Who will be responsible for the utilities? Your name on the bill means you will have to collect money from your roommate/s and pay the bills on time.
- Have you considered grocery shopping and cooking/clean-up tasks? If these responsibilities will be too cumbersome or time consuming, consider purchasing a meal plan or Blue Bucks so you can dine in the residence halls or the Unions from time to time.
Resources for Renters
- Housing Listings
- Inventory Checklist
- Roommate Agreement
- Sublease Agreement
- Average Rental Rates
- Parking Listings
Disclaimer
This site is a venue through which registered landlords can list available off-campus properties. University Housing does not endorse or screen any landlord, management company or individual who lists on this site. Neither the University of Michigan nor University Housing guarantees in any manner the quality of the properties or the services offered by listed landlords, management companies or individuals. Students, parents, landlords, management companies and members of the Ann Arbor community are under no obligation to use the services listed on this site or to rent from companies or individuals listed herein. (The terms and conditions of the Off-Campus Housing Program do not apply to University-owned or operated housing.)
