Steps to Living Off Campus

Step 1: Things to Consider Before Moving Off Campus

If you plan on living off campus, be sure to consider the following information when starting your search.

Budget

The first question to ask yourself is: Can I actual afford to move out on my own?Chicago is filled with diverse, exciting neighborhoods. However, the cost of living varies in those different neighborhoods. Prepare a financial budget that you can afford to sustain over a year. This will help you to narrow down what you area you would like to stay in and how much you are willing to pay in rent monthly. While determining what you can afford, do not forget to consider extra costs such as utilities and other bills, furniture, and other personal necessities. You do not want to stretch your money too thin!

Consider a Co-Signer

If this is your first time renting, some landlords may require a co-signer. A co-signer is required when the renter does not have a previous renter’s history. The co-signer can be your parent, family member, or a friend of the family. A co-signer will sign your lease and agree to pay your rent in the event that you do not pay. Talk with your family about your plans to rent an apartment. Find a possible co-signer before you select your apartment to ensure a smooth and speedy process into becoming a renter.

Finding a Place

Search through your housing options at offcampushousing.depaul.edu.

Chicago Neighborhoods and Surrounding Suburbs

Each neighborhood and suburb is unique and has something different to offer those who make it home. Chicago is divided into many different neighborhoods. The surrounding suburbs have been added to provide more housing options. Consider what amenities that you want from your neighborhood. Do you want to live near a park, shopping centers, or DePaul University? Understanding what you want from your neighborhood helps you to narrow your search.

Roommates

Many off-campus students will want to live with a roommate. The benefits of having a roommate include sharing the living expenses and having someone to hang out with. Be aware that no matter if you are living with your best friend from grade school or someone you met through the Off Campus Housing Roommate portal, you should always come to an agreement on issues such as cleaning, groceries, quiet times, privacy, guest visitation and bills.

Discussing all of these issues up front may help create a better living situation. You may even want to sign a roommate contract—it is always there to refer to in case a problem does arise.

Am I responsible for my roommates’ share of the rent? Yes. Each tenant is jointly and severally liable, which means that the landlord may demand the full amount of rent from you. The landlord may serve a five-day notice and then bring eviction proceedings against you, your roommate or both. You would not have a defense to the eviction based on your roommates’ failure to pay. If you pay your own share of the rent plus your roommates’ share, you can seek reimbursement by suing your roommate for breach of an agreement to share payment of rent.

Step 2: You Have Found Your Place, Now What?

Th e following provides references to help you get settled in your new apartment.

Check the Condition of Your New Apartment

(See Move-In Inventory)

Set Up Your Utilities

Most apartments will require that you pay part of or all utility bills and set-up. Your lease should identify what you and the landlord are responsible for. Once you know your move-in date, you should contact the various utilities for set-up and installation as it may take more than a week to schedule a technician.

Gas

People’s Gas is the main supplier of natural gas in Chicago. Heating costs can be high in winter, but by getting a plan in which you pay a standard average fee instead of each month’s actual cost, you can avoid getting a $200 bill in January and a $35 bill in June. Average costs should be around $60 to $80 a month. Call People’s Gas at (312) 240-7000.

Electricity

ComEd is Chicago’s primary electric provider. Delivery charges are often more than the amount for the electric itself. For example, 850 kWh costs $60.80 with the delivery charge at $29.75 making the estimated cost of electrician March $90.55. For customer service inquiries call (800) 334-7661.

Water

For water service in Chicago, the Department of Water and Sewer Management is responsible for water and sewer utilities and are responsible for any emergencies. They offer flexible payment plans and a variety of ways to pay. For water in the street or basement, call (312) 744-7038 or for questions about your water bill (312) 747-9090.

Internet

There is a host of internet providers to choose from. Check your area to see the companies that service your area. Also, be sure to have a plan with high Mbps to ensure fast speed internet.

Renter’s Insurance

Though you may believe that your personal belongings are insured under your landlord’s policy and that any injuries sustained in the residence are covered by the landlord, you are incorrect. The apartment you live in is insured for structural damage (say the building were to catch on fire), but does not include personal property such as furnishings, clothing, automobile, etc. To obtain renter’s insurance, you will need an estimate of the value of all of the belongings you would like to cover. It is important to make receipt copies of any big purchases. If you have another type of insurance, you may be eligible for a discount. If you are a dependent student, your parent or guardian may have coverage with their homeowner’s insurance. Renter’s insurance policies and quotes will vary by company. It is important you get the coverage you need by comparing similar types of coverage. For more information on renter’s insurance, contact the Insurance Information Institute at (800) 331-9146.

Residential Parking

Check with your landlord to know what the parking situation is at your residence. Some areas require specific residential parking stickers for street parking. Click here to check ifyou need a residential parking sticker.

Change of Address

When you are ready to move in, be sure to complete a change of address with the post office. Also, change your address in Campus Connection.

Furnish Your Apartment

Do not forget to personalize your place with household essentials to make your new place feel more like home. View the Apartment Checklist.

Step 3: Living in Your New Apartment

Emergencies, Repairs and Maintenance

Your lease should contain a clause that discusses repairs, maintenance and the responsibilities of the owner. Be aware that not all leases require a property owner to make ordinary repairs. To request a repair or maintenance:

• Give the property owner written notice. Make two copies of the notice (keep one for yourself) and have the manager sign both copies. If the manager will not sign the copies, send the notice by certified mail. This will give you proof that the manager received the notification.
• Wait a reasonable amount of time. On average, this can be interpreted as 5-7 working days, depending on the nature of the repair. Emergency repairs are those necessary for your health and safety and must be taken care of within a reasonable amount of time, usually five days. Such repairs include: gas leaks, broken locks, exposed electrical wiring,etc.
• Submit a second written notice if the repairs have not been made within a reasonable amount of time. Again, have the manager sign both copies. Depending on the type of repair, you may indicate in your second notice that you may consider terminating your lease if the repairs are not made in a certain amount of time. However, do not assume that you can make repairs yourself and be reimbursed for them.

Please note: Under almost all circumstances, you cannot legally withhold rent because repairs have not been made. You may be able to negotiate a reduction in your rent, but be sure to get this in writing as well.

Be a Good Neighbor

Whether you live in an apartment complex, condominium or private housing, all DePaul students are part of the DePaul community and need to work together to keep their neighborhood clean and inviting. Below are tips on howto be a good neighbor.

• Know Your Neighbors: You do not have be best friends with your neighbors, but it is a good idea to know their names and have their contact information in case of an emergency.
• Noise: How much is too much? Use your best judgment. If the noise can be heard outside of your property, then it is probably too loud. Make sure to monitor the volume on your television and stereo early in the morning and late at night so that you do not disrupt your neighbors. You should also avoid leaving barking dogs alone for a long period of time.
• Property Appearance: Take pride in your property and your neighbors will as well. To be a good neighbor, you can shovel snow off of the sidewalk (and possibly help an elderly neighbor with their own), keep indoor furniture indoors and not on your porch or lawn, and keep the dumpster from overflowing.
• Parking: Living in Chicago, there is limited space for parking. Fortunately, public transportation is convenient in many neighborhoods and by our DePaul campuses. If public transportation is not an option for you, you can take other steps to help solve parking congestion by following posted parking regulations and by not parking in a space or driveway that does not belong to you.
• Local Government: Who is your alderman? Are you registered to vote? Look up your representative here.

This information was created by the DePaul University Division of Student Affairs.