When you start to look for student housing, the following might be helpful to you. Here are some questions you should ask:

  • What are the pros and cons of renting this property?
  • Who owns the property and where does the landlord live?
  • Is the property furnished.
  • What utilities are included?
  • How is the neighborhood?
  • Is parking available?
  • Are there security lights?
  • Is the house a safe and secure?
  • Is the house insulated?
  • Are there storm and screen windows on the house?
  • Is there any place for storage?
  • Is there a yard or a place to have a cook out?
  • Is the property plowed in the winter time when it snows?
  • Are doorsteps and walkways shoveled in the winter time?
  • Who takes care of repairs and are they done promptly?
  • How much is the security deposit?
  • Is there an application fee?
  • How is the rent paid?
  • Is summer housing available?
  • Does the house have a certificate of occupancy?
  • What kind of locks does the property have?
  • Are the locks rekeyed or changed every year?
  • Do I sign an individual lease or do we have to sign as a group?
  • Are pets allowed on the property?
  • Do I need a co signor to sign the lease?
  • How old is the hot water tank?
  • How old is the furnace?
  • Is the furnace cleaned and serviced every year?
  • Is the house cable ready?
  • Is every room cable ready?
  • What company offers cable and internet?
  • When I come back to check in the beginning of the year will service (electric, gas) be on?
  • How does trash service work?
  • Is there a tote or dumpster to dispose of trash?
  • Do I have to bring it to the curb or does a truck pick it up at the house?
  • How do you screen tenants?
  • Is there an attic?
  • Is there a basement?
  • Would it be ok to take pictures while inspecting the property?
  • Can I paint the walls?
  • Can I put holes into the walls to hang pictures?
  • If we rent from you and we would like to keep the house do we get a first preference?
  • How long does the lease last?
  • When school is not in session can I still stay in the house?
  • Does the house have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors?
  • How often are they inspected and changed?
  • How long have you been in the rental business?
  • Do you have any references you can show me?