Frequently Asked Questions

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How early should I start looking for a residence?

We recommend beginning your search 3-4 months in advance, however, the Off Campus Housing website adds new listings very often.

Can I find housing without coming to the area?

While you can look for housing without coming to the area, it is strongly advised that you inspect properties in person. We recommend that you make an appointment with a prospective landlord to see the property before you sign a lease and pay any security deposits. By coming to the area to inspect the properties you are able to ensure that the unit matches your expectations. It also gives you an opportunity to develop a relationship with the landlord.

Can you recommend the best apartment/house for me to live in?

No, we do not place students in apartments or houses for rent. We provide resources through this website that will help you choose the best apartment/house for yourself.

Is there a limit to the number of roommates or housemates I can have?

There is a limit on the number of roommates or housemates that you can have. That number is determined by your respective township.

What if I do not like the place I am living, which I found on the Off-Campus Housing website?

Our office does not inspect, screen, approve, or supervise any of the premises listed. You are strongly encouraged to carefully inspect the premises to determine for yourself wether the housing is suitable for your needs and concerns. Please review our Renter's Checklists to assist you in evaluating the lists and in choosing the apartment, room or house that is right for you.

Where can I go for legal help?

The Law Office of the Public Advocacy Center (PAC) assists in select advocacy groups to promote new legislation and to assist implementation of recently passed legislation. Contact (631) 761-7033 for more information.

The Graduate Student Organization (GSO) also holds a legal clinic on occasion. Graduate students can schedule an appointment by emailing sbgrad.legalclinic@gmail.com or by contacting the GSO office at (631) 632-6492 during business hours.

How long does it take for my roommate listing to appear online?

A roommate listing can take 1-3 business days to appear online. All listings are manually approved by our staff. Any listings submitted on Fridays or around the holidays may take longer to get approved.

How do I contact a potential roommate?

You can contact a potential roommate by clicking on their roommate listing under Roommate Search. Students listed on the website have the option to list a phone number, email, and Facebook link. You may contact students through any of these means. Please be aware that some students list international phone numbers. 

When does my roommate listing expire?

Your roommate listing expires 30 days after it has been approved. When your listing was approved you should have received an email containing your listing's expiration date. You may renew your listing if you have not found a suitable roommate by contacting our office.

Is it the responsibility of the landlord or the tenant to make repairs in the house or apartment?

"Landlords are required to maintain electrical, pluming, sanitary, heating and ventilating systems and appliances landlords install (such as refrigerators and stoves) in good and safe working order. All repairs must be made within a reasonable time period" (Attorney General: Tenants' Rights Guide, p. 19). Information about how repairs will be handled should be addressed in your lease.

Is there anything I can do to make sure I get my full security deposit back when I move out?

Landlords are not supposed to deduct for "normal wear and tear." Beyond that, any aspect of your rental property that is not the way it was when you moved in can cost you, unless you take care of it to the landlord's satisfaction before you leave. It is very important that your lease addresses your landlord's expectations, to make sure you have a common understanding when the lease is over.

Should I get renters' insurance?

We HIGHLY RECOMMEND that students living off campus obtain renters insurance. Renters insurance will cover a loss of property in case of fire, flood, theft, etc. Contact any insurance company to obtain this valuable resource.

As a student, do I have to have a certain standing to live off-campus?

The university does not have any requirements for students who choose to live off campus. A student can choose to be a resident student or a commuter student.

As a student, can financial aid cover my rent? How?

Yes, your financial aid may be able to cover your off-campus housing costs. The amount of your tuition is automatically deducted from your aid/loans and the remainder is disbursed to you in the form of a refund check. This money is used at your discretion and it is your responsibility to allocate monies as you see fit. Each situation is different for every individual, and we encourage you to contact the Financial Aid Office at (631) 632-6840.