Off-Campus Housing Resources

Are you searching for off-campus housing or a compatible roommate? Retriever Support Services (RSS) is here to support you during this transition by offering a housing listing service and roommate finder, free for the UMBC community.

If you rely on public transportation, many local apartments and housing complexes are conveniently accessible via UMBC Transit’s shuttle lines. Additionally, we provide resources to guide you through essential topics like signing leases, fostering productive landlord-tenant relationships, and understanding local housing policies.

Explore housing options or list your property using our tools:

View off-campus housing listings or to list your own!

Before renting, it’s essential to evaluate your needs. Consider the following:

Type of Rental Unit

Apartment Options:

  • Garden-style apartment
  • Townhouse complex
  • Efficiency or studio apartments
  • 1, 2, or 3-bedroom units

Transportation Needs

  • Walking distance to campus or other key areas.
  • Accessibility to MTA bus/metro routes.
  • Availability of UMBC Transit shuttle services to your residence.

Proximity to Amenities

  • Access to grocery stores, pharmacies, and essential services.
  • Close to your job site or other frequently visited locations.

Privacy Needs

  • Do you prefer a private bedroom?
  • Are you comfortable sharing a bedroom or living space with roommates?
  • Will you share a bathroom, or do you need your own?

Affordability

  • Determine what you can afford, including rent and utility costs.
    • Most Expensive: One-bedroom apartments offer privacy but are typically costly.
    • Budget-Friendly: Rooms in shared housing, such as student homes, are more affordable.
  • Remember, the closer to campus, the higher the rent is likely to be.

Find Housing

Visit the Off-Campus Housing 101 website to browse available options.

Find a Roommate

Explore these resources to find roommates:

  1. Use the roommate search feature on the Off-Campus Housing 101 website.
  2. Check the “Classifieds” group on myUMBC for roommate requests and housing opportunities.

Posting Housing and Roommate Profiles

Want to list a property or share your roommate profile? Use our partner website, Off-Campus Housing 101.

  • UMBC students get one month of free access.
  • After the first month, UMBC affiliates must provide their UMBC ID number to continue the free service.

International Students – Mandatory Documents:

  • Valid passport & I-94 arrival record
  • I-20 with OPT/CPT authorization if applicable
  • UMBC admission letter & financial guarantee (min. $22,000/yr)
  • Co-signers: Required if no U.S. credit history; use UMBC’s International Student Services template

Domestic Students – Standard Requirements:

  • Photo ID & Social Security Number
  • Proof of income (3x rent via paystubs/bank statements)
  • Credit score >650 (exceptions with co-signers)

Signing a lease is a significant commitment. Here’s what you need to know:

What is a Lease?

A lease is a written agreement between you and the landlord that specifies the terms and conditions of renting a property.

Advantages of a Written Lease

  • Legally binding and protects both tenants and landlords.
  • Secures your right to live in the rental unit for a specific period.
  • Prevents unexpected rent increases during the lease term.

Points to Consider Before Signing

  1. Examine the Property: Inspect for any damage or issues.
  2. Note Repairs Needed: Get verbal promises in writing.
  3. Discuss Security Deposits: Understand the amount and refund terms.
  4. Scrutinize the Lease: Read and negotiate unfavorable provisions.

Understanding Lease Laws (Maryland State Law)

  • Section 8-205: Leases must be written to ensure legal protection.
  • Section 8-208: Protects against automatic lease renewal without proper notice.
  • Section 8-211: Specifies the tenant’s rights regarding repairs for dangerous defects.

If you don’t meet income requirements, landlords may require a co-signer.

Understanding Co-Signing

  • Co-signers assume full responsibility for the lease if you default.
  • Commonly needed by international students or tenants with insufficient credit.

What Co-Signers Should Know

  • They can end obligations before lease renewal by notifying the landlord in writing.

Understanding Co-Signer Laws (Maryland State Law)

  • Section 8-213: Details requirements for co-signers and lease applications.

A security deposit is a refundable payment made to the landlord to cover potential damages or unpaid rent.

Key Details

  • Cannot exceed two months’ rent.
  • Landlords must keep deposits in an interest-bearing account.

Protecting Your Deposit

  • Always get a receipt for your deposit.
  • Document existing damages with photos and written notes, most apartments give you one-week to complete and return your inspection form.
  • Request an inspection at move-out and get the final list of charges in writing.

Understanding Security Deposit Laws (Maryland State Law)

  • Section 8-203: Landlords must return the deposit within 45 days after lease termination.
  • Section 8-203.1: Requires landlords to provide a receipt for the deposit.

There is no guarantee that your security deposit will be returned to you. The landlord may withhold all or part of the deposit for nonpayment of rent, damages to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and utility or other bills the tenant may have neglected to pay. The landlord can withhold or deduct money only for actual damages.

Wear and Tear vs. Damage: Know the Difference

Landlords can only deduct from your security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear. Here are a few examples to illustrate the difference:

Wear and Tear (Expected)

  • Faded paint from sunlight
  • Worn carpet in walkways
  • Loose door handles
  • Minor scuffs on walls

Damage (Tenant Responsibility)

  • Large holes in walls
  • Pet stains and tears in carpet
  • Broken window
  • Unauthorized paint colors

Important: Document the condition of your rental when you move in and out to protect yourself from unfair charges.

Eviction Process

Evictions occur due to non-payment of rent, lease violations, or overstaying after the lease ends. The process includes:

  1. A termination notice from the landlord.
  2. Filing of an eviction suit in court.
  3. A court hearing and potential eviction order.

Lease Termination

  • Tenants must provide written notice to vacate, typically 60 days in advance from when their lease ends.*
    • If you want to renew your lease, add or remove tenants, or end your lease, you must leave a 60-day notice via email.
  • Failure to notify could result in forfeiting the security deposit.

Understanding Eviction Laws (Maryland State Law)

  • Section 8-401: Outlines legal eviction processes.
  • Section 8-403: Details rights and obligations during eviction proceedings.

Building a Good Relationship

  • Maintain clear and professional communication with your landlord.
  • Understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Handling Issues with Your Landlord

  1. Report Problems in Writing

    • Notify your landlord with a written description (e-mail recommended).
    • Keep records to avoid misunderstandings.

  2. Allow Reasonable Time for Repairs

    • Landlords must fix serious issues within a reasonable timeframe, depending on the situation.

Seek Help if Needed

If unresolved, contact one of these agencies:

Repairs and Reimbursements

  • Get written permission before making any repairs.
  • Renters’ insurance is essential—landlord insurance won’t cover your belongings.
  • For health or safety violations, contact your local housing code inspector.

When to Contact Your Landlord

  • Damage between pre-lease inspection and move-in
  • Gas leaks, electrical problems, pests (roaches, rodents)
  • Serious maintenance concerns
  • Lease termination (typically requires 60 days’ notice)
  • Subletting approval
  • Move-out security deposit review after inspection

Final Tip: Always document communication, repairs, and agreements to protect yourself as a tenant.