Understanding Student Housing Agreements

Student housing—dorms, university-managed accommodation, or private rentals aimed at students—often comes with a contract that sets out rent, deposit, length of stay, and rules. If you don't read carefully, you might agree to pay for the full academic year even if you leave early, or to strict rules that lead to fines or eviction, or to deposit deductions that are vague or harsh. Here's what to check in student housing agreements before you sign.

Rent and payment

• What's included. Is rent all-inclusive (utilities, internet) or do you pay extra? What about breaks—do you pay for winter/summer if you're not there? Some contracts charge for the full year; others let you pay only for term time. Know what you're paying for.
• When and how. When is rent due—monthly, termly, or upfront for the year? What happens if you pay late—fines, interest, or eviction? Get it in writing.
• Increases. Can the landlord or university raise rent during the term? How much notice? In some places student housing is regulated—check your contract and local law.

Length of stay and cancellation

• Fixed term. Most student housing is for a fixed period (e.g. academic year, semester). If you leave early (e.g. you drop out, transfer, or move elsewhere), do you still owe rent for the rest of the term? Many contracts say yes—so you could be liable for months of rent. Look for a break clause or early-release policy (e.g. if you leave university, you can end the contract with notice).
• Cancellation before move-in. What if you cancel before you move in? Do you get a refund? Some contracts keep the deposit or charge a fee—so read the cancellation terms.

Deposit and rules

• Deposit. How much? When do you get it back? What can be deducted—damage, cleaning, unpaid rent? The contract should say. In many places deposits must be protected in a scheme; check local law.
• Rules. Quiet hours, guests, smoking, damage—what are the rules and what happens if you break them? Fines? Eviction? Know the consequences before you sign.

BeforeYouSign can highlight rent, cancellation, deposit, and rules in student housing contracts so you know what you're agreeing to—before you sign.