Off-Campus Housing Resources
The Office of Residential Services is committed to assisting incoming and matriculating students in securing affordable and adequate off campus housing through the resources and services provided on this page. Although our office can provide information on a broad range of housing related issues, we do not make off-campus housing arrangements. All rental arrangements and agreements are made between the tenants and landlords. Our staff does not meet with or inspect any landlord who lists their apartment with us. We do not offer legal assistance, but can refer students to agencies that offer help.
Off-Campus Housing Workshop
Off-Campus Housing Blueprint
This presentation will provide you with basic information about navigating your Off-Campus housing search. We want you to be well prepared for your transition to your new apartment so we have researched and designed useful tips, facts and helpful resources that will prepare you to be an educated tenant. Each page takes you through a guided ten step process, including an introduction of what services we provide, what you should consider before deciding to live off-campus, how to draft a budget sheet, imperative questions to ask the landlord or realtor, and why having a good credit score is important.
Click the link below to view the presentation in PDF format
Information Sessions
We conducted an Off-Campus Information Session via Webinar in the summer of 2018. A streaming recording of this Webinar can be downloaded here: Off Campus Housing Webinar. You will need to download the WebEx ARF viewer to watch the Webinar.
Alternately, the Webinar is available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6KwgvK0oiQ4
Individual Counseling
Columbia University's Off-Campus Housing Assistance (OCHA)
OCHA helps Columbia affiliates in their search for rental housing in non-Columbia owned buildings located in the metropolitan area. OCHA maintains a Web site and regular office hours to provide advice, resources, and an online database of available housing.
International House provides housing to selected graduate students and interns representing more than 100 countries around the world each year. I-House offers educational, cultural and recreational opportunities to interact with others of divergent backgrounds in a friendly, informal manner.
Tenant Rights & Responsibilities
In New York City, tenants have many rights relating to the safety and quality of their housing. Tenants should expect to live in safe, well-maintained buildings that are free from vermin, leaks, and hazardous conditions. Laws protect tenants from harassment and discrimination. Tenants have responsibilities to their building owners and other tenants - including not damaging the building, and responding to annual owner inquiries related to window guards, lead-based paint, and to maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.