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| Student Rental Tips and Information |
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Before you enter into an agreement with a landlord ask as many questions as possible so both you and the landlord are clear about each others expectations.
Questions to ask before you rent include:
- How much is the rent? When will the rent increase? How is it paid? Will I get a receipt?
- Do I have to sign a lease?
- Security/Damage deposit? How much?
- Terminating the agreement - how much notice does each party need to give? What format does the notice need to be?
- Heat, hydro and other utilities: are they included?
- Parking: is it included? Where is it? How secure is it?
- Cable? Phone? Internet access? Are they included? May I install?
- Keys: Who has them? Does my room lock? Does landlord have access to my room?
- Access? Can I come and go when I want or are there restrictions?
- Pets, parties, guests and visitors (overnight): are they allowed? What restrictions are there?
- Windows: do they open and lock?
- Maintenance: who fixes appliances, plumbing etc. if they break down?
- Electrical outlets: how many? What usage can they stand?
- Noise: curfews?
- Security: What measures are in place? Have there been security problems?
- Complaint process: Is there a process for resolving problems or disputes?
- References: Can you talk to a former tenant to get their impressions of this landlord and accommodation?
Important!
- Make sure both you and your landlord understand each others responsibilities and duties and communicate what your expectations are in advance
- In B.C. it is illegal for landlords to charge more than 50% of one month's rent as a security/damage deposit.
- For more information consult the booklet "Residential Tenancy Act - a Guide for Tenants" available at the BCIT Student Housing Office or from the Residential Tenancy Office:
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