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Department of Student Community Development

What You Need To Know

*Check out our comprehensive Off-Campus Housing Information Brochure 

International Students

We strongly recommend that international students live on-campus for at least their first semester, because acclimating to a new community can be challenging when you are also getting comfortable at a new school.

Staying on campus gives you the opportunity to spend time focusing on your classes and on meeting other new students, rather than worrying about how you'll get to class each day, and whether or not your rental property is safe and legal.

You should not assume that just because a landlord, website, or agent speaks your native language, or are originally from your home country, that they have your best interests in mind. Build a rapport with a prospective landlord, review the property, advocate for your needs and concerns, and arrive at lease terms that are legal, reasonable and comfortable for both you and the landlord.

Social Host Law

It is illegal for anyone over the age of 18 who owns or rents a home to "knowingly allow the consumption of alcohol or alcoholic beverages by any minor" on the premises. The law also punishes any homeowner or tenant who learns that alcohol is being consumed by minors there and fails to take corrective action.

Suffolk County Social Host Law  

Red Flags

"Red flags" are warning signs that a rental property may be unsafe, or that someone may be attempting to scam you. If you notice any of these signs, the rental unit in question should be avoided. 

What is Legal Housing?

A rental dwelling unit is considered legal when it has been inspected by the Chief Building Inspector or a designated employed by the town, and meets all applicable housing, sanitary, building, electrical and fire codes, rules, and regulations. Upon receipt of the approved Inspection Report, the Chief Building Inspector shall issue a rental registration valid for 15 months from the date of issuance of the temporary rental registration.

If you are looking for guidance and best practices when approaching living off campus, we have tools that can help your search.


 

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