Smart Summer Sublease Tips
Is your student planning to sublet their place this summer? If so, it's important for your student to understand their rights and responsibilities to ensure they don't run into any issues at the end of the summer. Encourage your student to consider these tips, resources, and opportunities as they navigate subletting.
First, your student should review their lease and confirm with their landlord that they are able to sublet their space. Many landlords require subtenants to undergo the same approval process as normal tenants. Some landlords will help with reassigning the lease and sometimes that includes a fee.
Next, your student can ask the property manager if they have resources to assist with finding a sublet tenant. They can also post their sublet listing free of charge on the Off-Campus Housing website.
Once a potential tenant is identified, your student should interview potential tenants and clearly review terms of the sublease agreement. The Off-Campus Housing website also has a printable sublease agreement and an inventory checklist for your student to use. This will ensure everything is in writing and will clarify when subtenants are living in the space, who is responsible for potential damages upon move out, and more.
Is it a scam?
Students should beware of individuals sending an overpayment for deposit/rent, then asking for the overpayment to be sent back to them. This is a scam, because their check to your student will not clear the bank.
Beware of sublet tenants asking to pay rent after they move in. This is a scam. Your student should always obtain payment before the subtenant moves in and your student should keep the security deposit in an escrow account. Be sure to use the sublet agreement, as previously mentioned.
For more information -
Beyond the Diag is hosting an Off-Campus Housing and Summer Sublet Information Fair on February 16, 2017 in the Pendleton Room, Michigan Union, 11 AM - 2 PM. A variety of resources and information will be available from property managers and campus departments related to summer housing.
Take a look at Sublet Smart and Don't Get Scammed and The 5 Best Summer Sublet Tips featured on the Beyond the Diag Off-Campus Housing website for more tips and resources to share with your student.
Student Legal Services has published Before You Sublet on their website. Please review their tips and fraud warning from the Ann Arbor Police Department.
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