The University of Virginia S

University of Virginia’s College at Wise

The University of Virginia’s College at Wise has produced this guide for those students who wish to consider off-campus housing options. We strongly urge students to consider the benefits of on-campus housing when choosing whether to live on or off campus.

Benefits to living on campus include:

• Fixed costs that include cable TV & internet connections, telephone service, and all utilities
• Convenience
• Flexible housing options
• Safety
• No hassles w/roommates regarding bill payments, breaking of lease, etc

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Things to Consider:

• Be sure to consider additional expenses if living off campus (i.e. utilities).
• What is the length and what are the terms of your lease?
• Remember to budget money for groceries or a commuter meal plan. (For more information on commuter meal plans, visit
• Never sign a lease without first inspecting your property.
• Assess safety and security of your rental (i.e. door locks, exterior lighting, smoke detectors).
• Is the location of your rental close to a grocery store or Laundromat?
• Is garbage removal offered?

Area rental options

The University of Virginia’s College at Wise does not necessarily endorse any listed agents or facilities. Students should remember to carefully investigate each opportunity.

Last Updated: August 2016

NOTE: If you would like your student-friendly rental property listed here, contact the office of housing and residence life at 276/328-0214 or via e-mail at

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All about Leases:

Some leases are very detailed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about details in a lease if you don’t understand something. You have a legal obligation to abide by the provisions of your lease, and your signature indicates that you are familiar with and agree to the terms of the lease agreement. Remember, you can negotiate provisions or remove clauses in the lease. Make changes before signing and make sure changes are included on all copies. Try to avoid oral leases.

Choosing Roommates:

Be sure to discuss the following things with any potential roommates, even if you are “best friends”:

• Cleanliness — will everyone be responsible for cleaning up after themselves?
• Food — will you be eating meals together? Will everyone share shopping& cooking responsibilities?
• Habits — consider study and sleep habits.
• Drugs & alcohol — what is the roommate’sgeneral attitude about drugs and alcohol. How do you feel about partying or guests?
• Your property — how will you and your roommate(s) handle issues related to borrowing?
• Financial responsibility — how much can you afford to pay for rent, utilities, and other bills?(NOTE: The only way that you will be solely responsible for your part of the rent is if you each sign a separate lease. If everyone signs one lease, the others are responsible for rent if one roommate moves out.)

Renter’s Insurance:

Check your parents’ homeowner policy to see if it covers your personal property. If it does not cover you, you should consider obtaining a policy on your own. Consider such things as theft, damage, vandalism, and accident to visitors. Without renter’s insurance, you may be personally liable if something were to occur.

Neighbors:

It’s always a good idea to introduce yourself to your neighbors when first moving in. Get into the habit of treating your neighbors as you would like to be treated. In addition, be sure to do the following:

• Think about noise levels as if you lived next door.
• Tell your neighbors if you are sponsoring a large get-together.
• Let your guests know where they should and shouldn’t park.

Other Helpful Hints:

• Save a copy of your signed lease, as well as all correspondence, receipts, and/or checks
• Don’t pass out keys to your friends
• A “permanent” guest who is not on the lease may mean trouble for you
• Find out from your landlord what s/he recommends for hanging things on the walls.

Questions to ask Your Landlord:

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1. When is the apartment available?
2. Is it currently occupied?
3. When can I move in?
4. What is the monthly rent?
5. Is there a security deposit required? If so, how much?
6. When is rent due each month?
7. What are the penalties for late payment?
8. Is there a grace period?
9. Is there a lease?
10. What are the penalties for breaking the lease?
11. What are the terms for renewing the lease?
12. If my housing needs change, can I move to another available unit in the community?
13. Is the rent controlled or otherwise regulated by housing authorities?
14. Can I sublet (i.e. rent out rooms to others)?
15. Can I have roommates?
16. What utilities am I responsible for?
17. What maintenance items will I be responsible for (plumbing, mowing, etc.)?
18. What parking is available?
19. Are pets allowed? If so, what kind?
20. Is there a pet deposit?
21. Are laundry facilities available on the premises?
22. How is trash removal handled?
23. What kind of security is there?
24. Are there any community rules regarding quiet hours?
25. Are parties permitted?
26. How is the delivery of mail and packages handled?
27. Is there a phone number I can call for 24-hour maintenance emergencies?
28. What modifications (i.e. painting, wall papering, etc.) am I allowed to make?
29. Can I speak with current tenants in the community?

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Apartment Inspection Checklist

General Information

Date available

Air conditioning

Blinds/curtains

Closet space

Monthly Budget Worksheet

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