It’s leasing season for USC students. What to know before you sign
“Where should I live next year?”
Students at the University of South Carolina start asking that very question within their first months on campus.
As freshman, USC students are guaranteed university-owned housing. But as the school grows, fewer and few upperclassmen have opportunities to stay in USC accommodations. Instead, they look to private, off-campus residences in Columbia and neighboring communities.
But the housing market can be overwhelming in a college town, especially for those who are from out of town or out of state. And it's competitive.
Students begin signing leases for the subsequent academic year as early August or September before. Derenzo Thomas, the university’s assistant director for community engagement, helps students find where to live and what they need to know.
Students often come into his often and don’t know where to begin, Thomas said. He walks them through Garnet Living, an online, university-specific housing board.
Read the entire lease
South Carolina Legal Services recommends that renters fully and carefully to understand all provisions of a lease, and warns against anyone who pressures someone to sign a lease before doing so.
Tour the property
Renters should always tour a property, multiple times if possible, before signing a lease, according to South Carolina Legal Services.
If a parent is unable to tour a property with their student, Thomas said the university can help set up a virtual tour or Facetime call to ensure a property is up to par.
Know the location
USC is at the heart of Columbia’s downtown district. But students live near and far, from neighborhoods like Shandon and Olympia, across the Congaree River in West Columbia and Cayce and out in Lexington and Irmo too.
The university keeps tabs on properties that advertise to students, and tells students to check community crime maps to gage the safety of an area. It also recommends checking the walk score of areas, especially for students without access to vehicles.
South Carolina Legal Services recommends touring a place at different times of day, too.
Get renter’s insurance
Thomas said students should always consider getting renter’s insurance to protect their belongings in the event of fire or water damage.
“You’re paying between $10 and $15 a month for it,” Thomas said. “You spend more on a cup of coffee a month.”
Ask for legal help, if needed
If a student has problems, USC can provide someone to advocate for them on their behalf.
USC offers legal services to support in matters related to landlords, tenants, housing and domestic relations to fee-paying students.
Thomas said they can read through leases before students sign them. But they can also provide aid in disputes if they arise.
