If you live off campus, you probably will be required to sign a lease. This is a binding legal contract between the tenant (you) and the landlord (property owner). Read everything carefully before you sign your name to a document.

Do not sign a lease unless you are satisfied with the housing and expect to remain satisfied for the duration of the agreement. Ask questions if you are not certain you understand what you have read.

Leases normally run from August through the next July, but students who arrive in January usually sign a six-month lease for January through July. If you plan to leave Iowa City during the summer, you still will be legally bound to pay for your off-campus lodging throughout the full term of your lease. Some landlords permit students to sublease (find another renter for) their lodging during the summer months.

Resources for finding housing
Several web sites can help you locate housing in the Iowa City/Coralville area. Other resources include newspaper advertisements and advice from current UI students.

Off-Campus Housing Resources