Tips for Student Renters
- Get to know the neighbourhood before deciding to rent a room, apartment or house.
- Whether you are a short-term resident or in a neighbourhood for a whole academic year, introduce yourself to the neighbours who live nearby. Some of your immediate neighbours may be lifelong residents. Exchange names and telephone numbers with them and express our desires to learn the standards and routines of the neighbourhood.
- All student tenants renting a house in a residential neighbourhood have the right to expect a residence that is safe, well maintained and in good repair. Students also have a responsibility to become aware of the standards and obligations for keeping up the residence, proper fire safety and ensuring trash, recyclables, and organic waste is set out and disposed of on the proper collection day.
- Read your lease agreement carefully before signing it. Be clear about what your rights and responsibilities are concerning maintenance, fire hazards, heat, electricity, water, telephone and cable. If you have any questions or concerns about the lease or your tenancy before or after you sign, contact the Residential Tenancies office in Kentville or ASU Off-Campus Housing Service.
- Do a move-in inspection to check that any repairs have been completed both to the interior and exterior of the dwelling. Do a very careful check of the kitchen and bathroom. Check the condition and operating order of kitchen appliances and laundry facilities. Note the location of fire extinguisher(s). Carefully examine wiring and look for grounded 3-prong plugs in each room. Note heating sources, vents and temperature controls. Make a list of any additional safety concerns, needed repairs or maintenance and submit this list to your landlord. Negotiate a time when these repairs will be completed.
- Be aware of your responsibility for meeting the conditions of the lease and remember that you are a guarantor for anyone who shares or sublets your apartment or house.
- Be aware of your responsibilities for fire safety. For example, do not leave any candles or cigarettes unattended, near curtains or an open window. Do not use multiple extension or units that may overload a single electrical plug. Keep toaster ovens, microwave ovens, kettles and other cooking appliances a safe distance away from cabinets and walls. Never leave any electrical cooking appliances, stove or barbecue unattended. Unplug your computer, television and microwave during an electrical storm or power outage to prevent damage from a possible power surge.
|
Community Living