You have a signed lease for your off-campus apartment near OSU, but don’t conclude that’s all the process entails. Keep in mind some important next steps, in order to protect your interests and property.
Explaining Renter’s Insurance
One of the most important steps is to obtain a good renter’s insurance policy. Many student tenants don’t realize that the property owner’s insurance doesn’t cover the personal property of tenants in cases of theft or fire. Even more students don’t recognize the real threat of these things happening, assuming that bad things only happen to other people. But as nice as some of the student housing is in the neighborhoods surrounding Ohio State, theft does happen, either from apartments or cars.
For renter’s insurance, you should be able to get a quote on a policy from your automobile insurance company, or your parents’ insurance company if they still pay for your car insurance. Student Legal Services at OSU will be glad to look at your renter’s insurance policy and let you know if it includes the amount and type of coverage that will be best for you and your situation. One thing they’ll assess is whether the policy covers accidents that are your fault, such as an inadvertent fire that damages or destroys personal property.
Is Subleasing an Option?
Some property managers allow subleasing and some don’t. It is a nice option to have in case you decide you’re transferring or dropping out, or have an opportunity to move to another apartment or house.
OSU Student Life’s Off-Campus and Commuter Student Services provides the opportunity to advertise the property you wish to sublease (assuming your lease allows that option) on its Off-Campus Housing Search. Subleasing only applies to a completely vacant apartment, and should not be confused with advertising for a new apartment mate if yours is leaving. Roommate ads are available for this circumstance.
It’s important to keep in mind that while you’re subleasing your apartment, you could still be responsible for paying the rent or for any property damage that occurs during the sublease period. The actual lease remains in your name. If you’d like more information on subleasing, call OSU Student Legal Services at 614-247-5853.
Don’t Lose Your Apartment Deposit
The deposit you pay upfront before inhabiting your apartment is generally refundable in the 30 days after your lease expires. There’s more to it than that, however. You won’t get the deposit back if you still owe rent; if the apartment or house has damage that wasn’t there when you moved in; or you neglect to provide a forwarding address or fund transfer information.
The part about damages is why it’s a good idea to document with photos or video any issues or damage in the apartment before you move in. This way, upon move-out the property manager won’t try to blame you for that damage. While reputable landlords won’t do this, there’s always bad apples who will try to cheat you, and in some cases genuine confusion arises about who’s responsible for the damage. It’s better to avoid that possibility by documenting any damage at the very start.
For similar reasons, keep records of any repairs that occur while you’re living in the apartment, whether you pay for them or the landlord does.