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Division of Academic and Student Affairs
Office of Student Life and Advocacy

Moving Off Campus

Ready to make your move? Make sure you know before you go!

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Finding the right off-campus residence involves more than just choosing a place to live—it requires careful consideration of several important factors. Take your time, do your research, ask questions and thoroughly read your lease.

Below, you’ll find key aspects to consider as you shift to living off campus.

Starting Your Search

When searching for off-campus housing, students should consider the following:

  • Start early! This can provide you with ample time to explore a variety of options that fit your needs and increases the likelihood you will secure a residence based on your preferences.
  • Do your homework. Before signing a lease, take the time to research the residential company or landlord by reading reviews and asking appropriate questions. Be mindful of any off-campus property that claims to be affiliated with University Housing or NC State. While the University may collaborate with off-campus properties for events and to provide ongoing student support, no off-campus properties are officially part of NC State.
  • Tour the property. Take the opportunity to visit the residence in person to see it for yourself. Keep an eye out for safety and security features as well as cleanliness and overall condition of the property.

Before You Sign

Once you’ve found the perfect off-campus housing, it’s crucial to review all the details before you sign anything. This includes:

Understanding the Lease or Rental Agreement

  • What type of leases are provided? Joint or individual?
  • How long is the lease? When are the start and end dates?
  • Can you sublease or break your lease before the established end date? Are there any fees for doing so?
  • Can you get a copy of the lease to review prior to signing?

Make sure to ask questions and utilize your resources to ensure you fully understand the agreement. Student Legal Services can assist in reviewing your lease and providing helpful information and insight.

Additionally, the City of Raleigh Tenants’ Rights Handbook can provide general information about your rights and obligations in Raleigh.

Initial and Monthly Costs

  • What is the monthly cost for rent?
  • What is included in the rent price?
    • Are utilities (water, electric, gas), cable, internet, parking, and/or pet fees included?
      • If not, research how much each bill adds to your monthly costs.
  • Are there additional costs necessary to move in?
    • Application fees
    • Deposits
    • Advanced Rent
    • Pet fee (one-time and/or monthly)
  • Are you required to have renter’s insurance?
    • If so, what is the cost per month?
  • What payment options does the residence accept?
    • Do they accept cash, credit, check, money order and/or online payments?
    • Are there any fees for using a specific type of payment option?

Amenities

  • Parking
    • Is there parking for residents? If so, is there a fee?
    • Do you get a reserved spot? 
    • Is there visitor parking? 
    • Is there a garage?
  • Transportation
  • Other Amenities
    • Appliances (microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, washer/dryer, etc.)
    • Gym/Fitness Center
    • Pool
    • Garbage and recycling services
    • Can you have pets? Is there a dog park?

Safety and Security

  • How can you report problems with roommates and/or other tenants to the residence?
  • How does the residence handle roommate and/or neighbor issues? 
  • How do you fill out a maintenance request?
  • Does the residence have 24-hour maintenance?
  • How old and in what condition is the residence?

More information about safety and security can be found on our Living in Raleigh page.

Location

  • What is the distance between the residence and campus or other frequently visited places?
  • What types of businesses are in the neighborhood/area? Do you have easy access to things you need (groceries, etc.)?
  • What is the population of those who primarily live in the residence and neighborhood?
    • Undergraduate students, graduate students, non-students and/or families?

Moving In

It is important to remember that the start date of your lease may be different from your actual move in date. This should be clarified as soon as possible in order to make appropriate arrangements for your arrival.

Your rental company or landlord may have specific instructions for your move in day. Make sure to review this information and ask appropriate questions, such as:

  • Is move-in only one day or over the span of several days?
  • Is there a specific time you can start moving into your residence?
  • Is there an appointment system? Do you need to sign up for a specific time/date?
  • Where do I go to unload my items? Is there a time limit?
  • Will assistance be provided, such as staff or carts?
  • Where can I park after I am done unloading?

The answers to these questions vary based on your residence and the expectations they have set for tenants.

Furnishing Your Place

Moving into a new place is exciting, but making it feel like home requires the right essentials. Here is a list of must-have items to furnish your space.

Furniture

  • Bed frame and mattress
  • Desk and chair
  • Dresser/storage bins
  • Sofa, futon, couch
  • Dining table and chairs

NOTE: Check with your rental company or landlord to determine if your residence comes fully or partially furnished with furniture.

Kitchen Supplies

  • Pots & pans
  • Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, ladle, etc.)
  • Plates, bowls, cups, and silverware
  • Knives & cutting board
  • Food storage containers
  • Can opener & bottle opener
  • Dish soap & sponges
  • Trash bags & trash can
  • Small appliances (microwave, toaster, blender, coffee maker)

NOTE: Check with your rental company or landlord to determine if there are any types of appliances you are not permitted to have in the residence.

Bathroom Needs

  • Shower curtain & hooks
  • Towels & washcloths
  • Toilet paper
  • Plunger & toilet brush
  • Bath mat
  • Hand soap dispenser

Bedroom Items

  • Bed linens (sheets, pillows, blankets)
  • Alarm clock or phone charger
  • Hangers & closet organizers
  • Laundry basket & detergent

Cleaning Supplies

  • Vacuum cleaning
  • Broom & dustpan
  • Disinfecting wipes & sprays
  • Mop & bucket
  • Sponges & scrub brushes