Student Rental Rights
Student renters may not understand that they have the same rights as any other tenant. College students who are renting off-campus housing should read up on their rights and responsibilities under state and local laws.
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Tenant Rights and Responsbilities
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State landlord-tenant laws apply to all landlords and tenants in your state, and there is no exception for students or the landlords who rent to them.
Leases and Rental Agreements
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Leases and rental agreements are binding legal documents. You must be at least 18 to sign a lease. If you are under 18, the landlord will probably ask your parents to sign on your behalf.
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Other Lease Terms
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Your lease should have information on who is expected to pay for utilities, policies for taking on roommates or subletting your unit or room, pet policies, and the date on which your rent is due. Check the dates on your lease: Does the lease run through the semester? The school year? The calendar year? Negotiate for the dates you need.
Tenant Union
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A good campus tenant union can steer you away from bad landlords and help make you aware of your rights. If your campus doesn't have a tenant union, check to see if your city or town does.
Campus Housing and Legal Services
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Your campus legal clinic may be able to assist you in dealing with landlord issues, and your campus housing office can often give you good information on your rights.
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References
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