UofSC helps students navigate off-campus living

Posted on: 7/28/2015; Updated on: 8/5/2015
By Kimberly Washington

The transition to living off-campus can be simultaneously exciting and challenging.  To help students maneuver, UofSC has created a guide to master off-campus living.

The Off-Campus Living Guide has information and resources essential for a smooth move with details about understanding your lease, safety precautions, transportation schedules and budgeting tips.

Before moving in, make sure that your new place is safe to live in. The City of Columbia has minimum standards that properties are required to meet. Keep these requirements in mind and personally check for the following before moving in:

  • Make sure there is at least one window that opens per room and there are no broken panes.

  •  Make sure all electrical fixtures and smoke detectors are working.

  • Inspect for rodents and bugs.

  • Make sure all appliances and the heat systems work.

  • Make sure all plumbing fixtures are free of leaks and in sanitary and safe working condition.

  • Open and close all doors and check that all locks work.

  • Check for holes in ceilings and walls.

  • See that the unit is clean.

  • Find out who is responsible for the upkeep of the yard.

  • If you have questions or concerns, take pictures and address them immediately by doing the following: 

    • Provide your landlord with a detailed description and pictures of the problems and keep a copy for yourself. 

    • Contact the City of Columbia Housing Inspection Office at 803-545-3430 to request an inspection.

    • Reach out to Student Legal Services to discuss your rights as a renter. 

If you're looking for a place to relax on-campus when you're away from your new apartment, stop by the Off-campus Lounge at the Russell House. It's the perfect place for some downtime between classes or just to cool off.  

For more information about off-campus living visit  Off-Campus Student Services.


Share this Story!  Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about