Leasing Information
Leases are legally binding contracts. Some leases may be for an entire apartment, while others will be for a specific space or room in the apartment. Tenants should always read the lease carefully and understand the terms of the lease before signing. A lease will include pertinent information regarding the responsibilities of the landlord and tenant. A lease may be negotiated before signing, although both parties will have to agree upon the specific changes and note it in writing. If a student has questions about a lease, they should ask the landlord before signing the lease, or contact our office for more information. Tenants may be held jointly and severally responsible for the terms of the lease. This means that a tenant and any roommate(s) are jointly responsible for any charges, rent, or damage to an apartment. The landlord has the right to pursue tenants individually or collectively to receive payment. It is important to find a trustworthy roommate because if they miss making a payment, the landlord may look to you for the missing income.
Most of the landlords in the area require leases for 12 months. Subleasing for the summer months is a common practice in the area. If you plan to sublease, make certain there is a sublease provision in the lease that you sign. If you would like to post your sublease, please register as a new landlord.
Whenever possible, negotiate directly with a landlord. Make sure your name is on the lease and that you are the tenant of record along with your roommate(s). Stay away from an arrangement where one roommate acts as the sole lessee and has a second lease for the other roommate(s). Do not enter into a loose oral agreement either with your landlord or with roommate(s).