Questions You Should Ask When Renting Housing in University

Moving into off-campus housing is a big step. Initially, you’ll probably feel excited about your newfound freedom. All the same, the search for the perfect home can quickly turn stressful. Asking the right questions is key to ensuring you choose the best place to live and to preventing problems in the future.

1. How Does the Lease Work?

If the landlord will provide you with a single lease, this is ideal. You could be in trouble if one of your roommates fails to pay the rent on time and decides to move out early. When you know and trust everyone you will be sharing with, this is unlikely to be a problem. However, if some of your roommates are friends of friends, you need to be prepared that, should the living situation change, you may need to pay an extra share of rent and utilities.

Ideally, the landlord will be able to give each of you an individual lease. That way, if someone does leave, there will be no rush to find a replacement roommate.

2. What Does the Rent Include?

Sometimes, rent includes utilities. In other cases, tenants are expected to pay for everything. It is crucial to ask exactly what the rent includes when considering an apartment — otherwise, it’s impossible to compare places.

If the rent will not include utilities, find out how much you can expect to pay. Ask the landlord for average monthly payments. It is best if you can see evidence of what the previous tenant was paying. This will ensure that the landlord is not underestimating. Also bear in mind that some tenants may be less careful about how much they spend on things like electricity and heating — you may be able to reduce these expenses.

3. Who Is Responsible for Maintenance?

Some affordable housing for students is not the newest. There is always the chance that something could break — and you may need it fixed as soon as possible. Most of the time, landlords take responsibility for maintenance and offer a timely service. Clarify that this is the case before signing a lease.

A good alternative to apartments for rent near University of Waterloo is a place like King Street Towers. This accommodation is designed just for students, but it is still off-campus housing Waterloo, Students each receive a furnished suite in clean, modern facilities — utilities and maintenance are included. Although you’ll have roommates, you’ll only be responsible for your own rent payment.