The Right Apartment

While the majority of Holy Cross students live on campus, some juniors and seniors decide to live off campus. 

Living off campus presents new challenges; there will be bills to pay, daily chores to do, potential roommate conflicts to resolve, and non-student neighbors to meet and live with cooperatively. Off-campus students will tackle many of these issues without the convenience of a residence life staff to assist them. 

On this page, you will find helpful information about locating the right apartment, moving in and out of your apartment, understanding and signing a lease, and important information for students considering living off campus.

Cost

  • Is the asking price within the market value for units of the same size and location?
  • Is the price negotiable?
  • Is there a refundable security deposit?
  • Are utilities and/or furnishings included?

Space

  • How many bedrooms are there? Does anyone have to share? Who?
  • How many closets are there per person?
  • Is there space for everyone's furniture in the living room?
  • Is there study space? Room for computers?
  • How many bathrooms are there? Is that number sufficient for the morning rush before classes?
  • Is the kitchen big enough for everyone to use at the same time?

Exterior

  • Are there enough exterior lights?
  • Are there screens on every window?
  • Are the windows double-paned? Are there working locks on every window?
  • Are there enough fire exits?
  • How many parking spaces are there?
  • How safe is the area at night?

Interior

  • How is the condition of the walls and ceiling?
  • Does the apartment have carpets or hardwood floors?
  • Are the walls and windows well insulated?
  • How many and where are the electrical outlets? 
  • How many and where are the phone jacks? Is there more than one phone line?
  • Are there laundry facilities?
  • Is the apartment wired for television and/or the internet?  

Plumbing

  • Do the sinks and tubs drain properly?
  • Do the faucet knobs work?
  • Do you get the appropriate amount of hot and cold water?
  • Is there enough water pressure?
  • Are there water stains on the walls, ceilings or floors from leaks?
  • Do the toilets flush properly?

Heat

  • Is there a source of heat in each room?
  • Can you control the heat?

Safety

  • Are there deadbolt locks on the exterior door? 
  • Are there two exits in case of a fire?
  • Does the unit meet all safety code guidelines?
  • Is there adequate lighting in the stairwells and hallways?
  • Are there smoke detectors?
  • If the unit uses natural gas are there carbon monoxide detectors?
  • What condition are the appliances in?
  • Is the landscaping well maintained or are there "dark spots" on the property?
  • What is the condition of the walkways, steps, stairs? 

Other

  • What is the reputation of your landlord? Does he or she have a reputation for being responsive?
  • Is he or she available to you?
  • What conditions have to be met to get your deposit back?
  • Are pets allowed? If yes, do the current occupants have a pet?
  • Will the apartment be cleaned by a third party before your occupancy?