Monthly Tips for Tenants: September
Resist the urge to sign leases early
Early lease signing is usually unnecessary and may lead to problems later.
Most landlords cannot show their properties to prospective tenants and/or sign leases for them until 70 days after the current lease period has started.
Does your apartment need cleaning or repairs?
You lease might include specific instructions on how to submit a work order, refer to it first. If it doesn’t, call your landlord and ask where to direct your request.
Keep documentation of any contact you have with your landlord in case you have difficulty getting service and need a record of your efforts.
If your landlord takes what seems to be an unreasonable amount of time to respond to your request, follow up with another written request and contact Off Campus Housing for advice and assistance.
Agree up front with roommates
Everyone has different standards and expectations.
Use the Roommate Agreement Form to make house rules and expectations of all roommates known in advance.
If there are roommate conflicts, and you cannot work them out, contact Off Campus Housing for conflict resolution and mediation services.
Turn in your inventory checklist
When you first move into your apartment your landlord is required by law to provide you with two inventory checklists. If they haven’t, ask them for one, or download one from Off Campus Housing.
This form is essential for determining which damages existed before your lease started and should be filled out in detail and returned within 7 days after obtaining possession of the rental unit. Attach an extra piece of paper if necessary to note all damages.
Keep a copy for your records, and make sure all roommates have a copy as well.
Still waiting for your security deposit?
Within 30 days after the termination of your lease term, your landlord must mail you a list of damages, the cost of repairs, and the reasons why money will be deducted from your security deposit.
You should receive a check for the amount of the security deposit that your landlord claims you are entitled to.
Don’t like your own cooking?
Off Campus students can purchase University Meal Plans, Co-Op Board Only plans, or choose to take on what the local eateries have to offer.
