Neighborhood Housing Options and Guidelines

Moving into your first apartment is an important step. Use CreditDonkey's budget calculator to create a budget and track your finances. You can also use it to compare the cost of living off-campus and on-campus.

Hamline University does not inspect or endorse any rental listings that appear on this list. Students are fully responsible for investigating properties and landlords prior to signing a lease. Hamline University is not responsible for landlord/tenant disputes, and we recommend that you use free legal advice and city options for managing conflicts.

The off-campus housing board is located in Bush Center, outside of room 106.

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Never sign a lease for a space you have not yet seen personally. It is essential that you visit your potential home before you make any decisions.

Take adequate time to inspect the property during your visit. There are many questions to ask yourself in a suitable space, including:

• Has the inside and the outside of the property been well cared for? Does there appear to be any damage?
• How clean is the property?
• Does the water run properly? Make sure to turn on the faucets, flush the toilet, inspect the shower heads, and look under the sink for leaks.
• Take note of the appliances in the space. Are there any issues with any of them?
• Be sure to check each window in the space. Are any of them broken? Do they open properly? Are there screens on the windows?
• Look for the smoke detectors and test them. Are they in working condition?
• Are the locks on the doors adequate and functional? Can the bedroom doors be locked with a key? If sharing a space with multiple roommates, it may be beneficial to be able to lock your personal belongings when you are away. Please note, per the fire and safety inspectors, bedroom doors are not allowed to be locked from the outside with a key for safety reasons. A landlord will be cited for this and be instructed to remove the lock.
• Check the condition of the ceilings and walls. Are there any significant cracks that may cause future problems? Are there any water stains which show signs of previous plumbing issues?
• Test the electricity to be sure everything is in working condition.
• Find out what heat source is available to you. How is the insulation in the house? If it is poor, heating may be quite expensive.
• How will you do your laundry? Are there facilities nearby?
• Is a caretaker responsible for repairs and upkeep of the property?

Be sure any potential roommates visit the property as well. Ask them to look for any potential issues.

Ask for the contact details of the manager and owner of the property. It is your legal right to be given the address and phone number of the individual/s responsible for renting the property to you. This information should be posted at the property and specified in the lease.

Don’t be rushed or pressured to accept a space you are not comfortable with. Take at least 24 hours to decide how you feel about the property and if you could really see yourself making the space your own. Remember, as a student, you could potentially become an easy target and could be easily taken advantage of.

It is a good idea to try to contact the individuals currently renting the space or who have rented from the property manager in the past. They may be able to provide you with valuable insight.

You may also be able to find out if the landlord or property manager has been a party in any lawsuits. This can be done by checking with the county Conciliation Court or Housing Court. Use the online resource on Ramsey County's website.

Reasons not to rent a property include:

• There is no rental/lodging license posted at the property
• You would be staying in a room with a ceiling that is not at least seven feet high
• Smoke detectors are not present within 15 feet of each bedroom in the space
• There will be three or more roommates who are not related living in one dwelling
• The room you will occupy is not at least seven feet across
• The room you will occupy is located in a third floor attic space and does not have two staircases leading to the ground level
• The room you will sleep in is without a window or door which leads directly outside
• There will be more than four individuals sleeping in the same room, regardless of how large the room is

If you feel there has been a code violation, you need to contact the city in which the property is located. If your dwelling is cited for violation of the city code, your landlord will have about 15 to 30 days to comply with the order.

Remember that a lease is a binding agreement between all parties who sign it. If you are not careful in making decisions, you could end up in an agreement which does not suit your needs. 
When it is time to sign a lease, you should:

• Gather all roommates. Everyone who will be named in the lease must be involved in the entire process.
• Do not pay an application fee unless you think you have a good chance of being approved to rent the space. Remember, if there is no unit available to rent, a landlord cannot charge an application fee.
• Ask to review the lease agreement before paying any deposit.
• Be sure that any promises made by your landlord are clearly stated in the lease. Do not be afraid to ask for something to be added in writing to the agreement.
• Negotiate parts of the lease agreement so you feel more comfortable with the terms.
• Wait to pay a deposit to hold the property until you and your roommates are sure you wish to rent it. You should also check to see if the deposit could be refunded should you change your mind.
• Ask for copies of the lease before you sign it. If possible, take the lease to someone who has experience in the area. You may wish to consult a housing specialist or an attorney if areas of the agreement seem unclear to you or you do not feel you are protected in certain areas.
• Make sure that each roommate understands what he or she is about to sign. Each roommate will be individually and jointly responsible for the payment of all rent due and any damage to the property. Thus, everyone must understand their obligations before anyone signs the agreement.
• Be sure that you have copies of each and every document you put your signature on.

Hamline students suggest you also:

• Make sure all keys from former renters have been returned
• Have the landlord change the locks if the keys have not all been returned
• Make sure you are given a key to each door on the property
   

A renters’ insurance policy is taken out to protect a renter in situations in which property loss or damage occur. It can also provide protection for the renter if he or she would be found responsible for the injuries or damaged property of others in the space.

Renters' insurance can be affordable. The average policy costs about $12/month for coverage of around $30,000 for property protection and about $100,000 in liability coverage. Things to keep in mind when deciding to purchase renter’s Insurance: 

• Your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover any of your belongings unless they are found to be negligent.
• Ask yourself if there is a natural disaster, fire, or burglary, will you be able to replace your damaged or stolen belongings?
• Check if you have auto insurance through a company that also offers rental insurance. You may be able to get a discount by having one company carry all of your policies.
• If you are a full-time student, you may be covered under your parents’ homeowner policy. Be sure to contact your parents to find out.

What does renters’ insurance specifically cover? 

• Renters’ insurance will typically provide you with the means to either repair or replace your personal belongings including damage or theft due to fire, smoke, lightning, windstorm, hail, explosions, vandalism, theft, electrical surge, or water-related plumbing damage.
• In some cases, renters' insurance may cover your belongings which are not in your home or apartment but for example, in your car.
• In the event that you cannot live in your home because of one of the above circumstances, your insurance may help you with expenses incurred. For example, it may pay for a temporary residence and food eaten out.

The information above has been gathered with permission from “Student Legal Services Tenant Resource Guide,” a resource produced by University Student Legal Services at the University of Minnesota.

For further guidance on understanding renter's insurance, specifically designed for students living off campus and including key protections and benefits, please view this link: Renters Insurance for College Students.

If you're looking for options for storing your belongings off campus, there are a number of storage facilities near campus.

You are protected against discrimination when seeking housing. The Fair Housing Act is provided for under Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act which was created in 1968. Individuals are protected from discrimination on the basis of handicap or disability, religion, race, color, national origin, and familial status when in the process of attempting to sell, rent or finance housing and in other transactions related to housing.

A landlord cannot, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or handicap:

• Refuse to rent or sell housing
• Refuse to negotiate for housing
• Make housing unavailable
• Deny a dwelling
• Set different terms, conditions, or privileges for sale or rental of a dwelling
• Provide different housing services or facilities
• Falsely deny that housing is available for inspection, sale, or rental
• For profit, persuade owners to sell or rent (blockbusting)
• Deny anyone access to a membership in a facility or service related to the sale or rental of housing

It is unlawful for anyone to:

• Threaten, coerce, intimidate or interfere with anyone exercising a fair housing right or assisting others who exercise that right.
• Advertise or make any statement that indicates a limitation or preference based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or handicap. This prohibition against discriminatory advertising applies to single-family and owner-occupied housing that is otherwise exempt from the Fair Housing Act.

Important information for those with disabilities

Your landlord may not refuse to let you make reasonable modifications to your dwelling, at your expense, or refuse to make reasonable accommodations in rules, policies, practices, or services if necessary for the disabled person to use the housing. However, where reasonable, the landlord may request that you agree to restore property to its original condition when you move.

If you feel your rights have been violated under the Fair Housing Act:

• You may access the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s website at www.hud.gov to download the Housing and discrimination complaint form
• You can complete the form and return it to the Minneapolis HUD Office or submit it online
• You may also choose to write HUD a letter
• If you feel more comfortable speaking directly with a representative from HUD, you may call them at 612-370-3000

When alerting HUD of a violation:

• Provide your full name and address
• Provide the name and address of the person your complaint is against
• Provide the address of the house involved in the complaint
• Provide a description of the alleged violation
• Provide the date of the violation

After the complaint has been filed: HUD will notify you when it receives your complaint. Normally, HUD also will:

• Notify the alleged violator of your complaint and permit that person to submit an answer
• Investigate your complaint and determine whether there is reasonable cause to believe the Fair Housing Act has been violated
• Notify you if it cannot complete an investigation within 100 days of receiving your complaint

Conciliation

HUD will try to reach an agreement with the person your complaint is against (the respondent). A conciliation agreement must protect both you and the public interest. If an agreement is signed, HUD will take no further action on your complaint. However, if HUD has reasonable cause to believe that a conciliation agreement is breached, HUD will recommend that the Attorney General file suit.

Resources for HUD
Minneapolis Research Center
International Center
920 Second Ave South, Suite 1300
Minneapolis, MN 55402-4012
Phone: 612-370-3000

HUD offices is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday

All of the information in this section was gathered from the US Department of Housing and Development website.

Rights and responsibilities of tenants

Payment of rent

• It is your responsibility to be sure your rent is paid in the full amount agreed on in the lease and by the date agreed on in the lease
• You may be evicted for failure to pay your rent
• If you move out of the property before your lease is up, you remain responsible for payment of your rent

Property damage

• You are responsible to pay for any damages to the rental property
• A landlord has the right to file a lawsuit against a tenant for willful and malicious destruction of residential rental property
• You should take care of your rental property like it is your own

Repairs

• When you require a repair, contact your landlord right away.
• Be sure to keep a written log of things in need of repair and when and how the problems were resolved. If there are any concerns in the future regarding issues, you will have a log of the problems.
• DO NOT stop paying your rent if you have repair problems.
• You may have standing to take legal action against your landlord under certain circumstances regarding failure to resolve repair problems.
• If you feel your landlord is not fulfilling his legal obligations, you can contact your legal aid office.

Hamline students suggest:

• Keep a detailed record each time you contact your landlord about repairs
• Stopping by your landlord’s office will often not be enough to resolve repair issues
• It is most beneficial for you to call your landlord or put your needs in writing in the form of an email or a mailed letter

Rights and responsibilities of landlords

Certificate of Rent Paid

Your landlord must give you a Certificate of Rent Paid by January 31 or each year. This may allow you to receive a partial refund for the property tax paid

Maintenance

• The rental unit must be fit to live in
• The rental unit must be kept in a reasonable repair
• The rental unit must be in compliance with the state and local health and housing codes
• If it is not up to code and the unit is inspected, the Fire Marshal may force the renter to move out of the property immediately

Housing codes

All rental properties must be up to code, including:

• Basic requirements for the maintenance of the exterior and exterior structures
• Extermination of rodents and insects
• Compliance with fire and safety codes
• Weatherization of rental units

The information above has been gathered with permission from, “Student Legal Services Tenant Resource Guide”, a resource produced by University Student Legal Services at the University of Minnesota. 

Right to privacy

A landlord may only enter a unit for reasons, including:

• Showing the unit to prospective tenants
• Showing the unit to prospective buyers or insurance agents
• Performing maintenance work
• Showing the unit to state or local authorities (for example, the Fire Marshal)
• Checking on a tenant who is causing a disturbance
• Checking on a tenant who is believed to be violating the lease
• In cases of emergency
• If there is no business or emergency reason to enter, a landlord must give you a “reasonable notice” to enter your unit
• Remember that sexual harassment by a landlord, caretaker, manager, or security guard is illegal
• You have the right to feel comfortable and safe in your home

Lock-outs and shut-offs

• If your landlord wants to evict you, he or she must serve you an eviction notice and allow you time to correct whatever problem exists.
• He or she must then file an eviction action with the local court.
• Under Minnesota Statute 504B.225, a landlord may not unlawfully lock a tenant out of a property or shut off electricity, heat, gas, or water.
• If you have been locked out of your rental property, call your landlord and explain that his or her behavior is unlawful.
• If you are being evicted or need legal assistance on the matter, call your legal aid society as soon as possible. You can visit the Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid website for information.
• An eviction action can be filed against you if you fail to pay your rent on time, break the lease, or stay in the renting unit after notice to leave was given.

Please keep in mind:

• If you are lawfully evicted, your eviction records are public and can be used against you when you are looking for a new place to rent
• A record of your eviction can be expunged only if you win or settle an eviction dispute
• If a landlord decides to use a tenant screening company and you have a record with an eviction listed, you have the right to explain why you were evicted

The information above has been gathered with permission from, “Student Legal Services Tenant Resource Guide”, a resource produced by University Student Legal Services at the University of Minnesota.

The Minnesota State Attorney General's website provides accurate information regarding tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities.

Regardless of where you are renting, you must know and understand all city ordinances. Particularly, you should keep a few things in mind:

• It is critical to know that the number of people allowed to live in a unit must be equal to the number of bedrooms in the unit
• Do NOT assume that your landlord will know or follow the city ordinances properly
• Be aware of noise ordinances: Usually 10 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends
• Failure to follow city ordinances can result in fines or even eviction

City of Saint Paul:
Visit the City of Saint Paul's website for information regarding specific ordinances.

City of Minneapolis:
Find the Minneapolis City Ordinances online at the City of Minneapolis's website.

Social Host Ordinance:
Both the city of Minneapolis and the city of Saint Paul have social host ordinances which makes the hosts of a social gathering criminally responsible for any underage consumption of alcohol at the gathering or party.

Minneapolis Social Host Ordinance

Saint Paul Social Code of Ordinances
 

Important numbers

Garbage and recycling services

Tips on financing a vehicle responsibly, complete with exclusive discounts and options tailored for students to help reduce overall costs: Student auto loan information.

Discounts tailored for college students, including savings on auto insurance: Student discounts.

Your lease and landlord

• Check your lease. What does it say regarding parties? It is possible that your landlord prohibits parties.
• If you host a party in violation of your lease, you could be evicted.
• If the police receive a complaint from your neighbors, they will most likely pay you a visit. Your landlord may be notified by the police and may take action against you. This can happen even if the police do not issue a citation.

Criminal penalties

Noisy assembly

• A noisy assembly is defined as a gathering including more than one individual in a residential area which causes significant disturbance or discomfort to the reasonable person between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
• Social gatherings which could be cause for complaint are regulated by most cities, including Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
• There are city ordinances to do not allow individuals to participate, visit, permit, or remain at a noisy gathering.
• Keep in mind that under the definition, you can receive a violation whether you have a couple of friends over or invite 100 people to a party. You can be given a violation whether or not you are the host and whether or not there is alcohol present.
• This violation is a misdemeanor. It is punishable by a fine of up to $1000 and could result in 90 days in jail.

Disorderly conduct

• Disorderly conduct is defined as engaging in conduct that is likely to alarm, anger, or disturb the peace
• Some included offenses include: fighting, engaging in offensive, obscene, or abusive language, or in boisterous and noisy conduct that may cause alarm, anger, or resentment in others
• This violation is misdemeanor and can result in payment of a fine up to $1000 and or 90 days in jail
• Keep in mind that police often charge individuals with disorderly conduct when they believe they are not cooperating

Alcohol—underage consumption, purchasing or possession

Consumption

• It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol.

False identification

• It is illegal for someone to present false identification or to give a false name to a police officer who is acting within his/her duties.
• It is illegal to present false identification in order to purchase alcohol.

Purchasing

• It is illegal for a person under the age of 21 to possess alcohol with the intent to consume it.

Any violations of the above can result in a misdemeanor charge and a fine of up to $1000 and or 90 days in jail.

Possession

• It is illegal for a person under the age of 21 to possess alcohol with the intent to consume it.

Any violations of the above can result in a misdemeanor charge and a fine of up to $1000 and or 90 days in jail. 

Furnishing alcohol to person under the age of 21

• Anyone who buys or furnishes alcohol for a person under the age of 21 can be charged with a gross misdemeanor and a fine of up to $3000 and or one year in jail.

Driving while intoxicated:

• It is illegal to drive, operate, or be in control of a motorized vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance or with an alcohol concentration of above .08%.
• It is also a crime to refuse a chemical test if you are stopped by the police and suspected of being under the influence of one of the above. Refusal results in the loss of your driver’s license for 1 year.
• Test results of blood alcohol concentrations over .08% will result in the loss of your driver’s license for 90 days. Driving while intoxicated is considered a misdemeanor and can result in a fine of up to $1000 and or 90 days in jail.

Zero tolerance

• It is illegal for anyone under age 21 to drive, operate, or be in control of a motor vehicle after consuming any amount of alcohol. The first violation of the law will result in the loss of a driver’s license for 30 days and the second will result in the loss of the license for 180 days. This violation will become a permanent part of the individual’s driving record.

Civil action and social host liability:

• If you are 21 or older and you furnish, sell, give, or purchase alcohol for someone who is under 21, there may also be civil legal consequences for your actions. If, as the result of the consumption of alcohol results in that individual injuring or harming an innocent third party, a civil lawsuit may be brought against you.

A few words of wisdom

• If, after understanding all of your responsibilities, you still want to host a party, there are a few precautions you should take to be sure you are creating a safe situation.

Before the party:

• Be sure to plan in advance for the occasion.
• Limit the number of guests and be firm about whether your guests are allowed to bring additional people.
• Think about the impact your event will have on your neighbors. You should always inform them of your party and ask them to give you a call first if they have any problems.

During the party

• Be sure you have your phone within hearing distance from you at all times throughout the problems. If your neighbors call to complain, be sure you are available to speak with them so you can resolve the matter before the authorities are involved.
• Try to keep the party inside.
• Go outside periodically to assess the noise level. If you do this, you’ll know if you are bothering your neighbors.
• Control where your guests park their vehicles. Don’t allow them to block driveways or park on the lawn.
• Make sure your guests do not use your lawn as a restroom.

What to serve

• Make sure you have water, juice, and soda available to your guests. It is important to have non-alcoholic options.
• Label your beverages.
• Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before your party ends.
• Serve foods that aren’t overly salty. This will promote thirst and your guests may want to drink more than normal.
• Be respectful of the guests who choose not to drink alcohol.
• Do not promote excessive drinking. Drinking games are sure to cause your guests to overindulge.
• Designate someone you have great trust in to be a bartender. He or she can be active in preventing guests from drinking more than they should.

Be responsible

• Make sure drinking is NOT the focal point of your gathering.
• Never serve anyone alcohol unless you know they are 21 or older.
• It is your responsibility to prevent excessive drinking.
• Have emergency phone numbers available and be in charge of making crucial decisions. If you feel someone has had too much to drink or is in danger of be hurt or hurting someone else, you must call the proper authorities or emergency medical persons.
• Have many numbers for taxi companies available.
• Be sure you have designated drivers available at the party.
• You decided to have a party. It is now your responsibility to stop your guests from driving home under the influence. If you feel someone should not drive home. Don’t let him or her. Take car keys or call the appropriate authorities.
• Plan ahead for overnight guests.
• Be sure no one leaves your party with an open container of alcohol.

A visit from the police

• Be sure to cooperate.
• Take the visit seriously.
• Be truthful when answering questions.
• Remember that it is your right to refuse to allow police officers to enter your living space unless they have a search warrant.
• Be aware that most officers will enter forcibly if they have reason to believe that illegal activity is occurring.
• In the event you are ticketed or arrested, do not argue or resist the arrest.
• If you are faced with a legal issue, be sure to contact an attorney as soon as you can.

After party

• Clean up as much litter as possible outside and inside.
• Call your neighbors to thank them for cooperating.

The information above has been gathered with permission from, “Student Legal Services Tenant Resource Guide”, a resource produced by University Student Legal Services at the University of Minnesota. None of the above information should be substituted for legal advice. You should always consult an attorney on legal matters.

Introductions

• It is important to become acquainted with your neighbors right away.
• By properly introducing yourself, you can establish a friendly relationship with them.
• Introductions provide for an open, communicative neighborhood. If problems should arise in the future, you will most likely be able to resolve them without involving the authorities.

Maintain your property

• It is important to understand whether your landlord will be fulfilling the responsibility for yard work and snow removal.
• If you will be responsible for maintaining the sidewalk, yard, or entrance to the property, you must be sure to keep up with the tasks.
• If your landlord is responsible for the grounds, make sure he or she is upholding the duty.

Keep your noise level down

• This is especially important at night in areas where there may be families and non-college students living.
• Don’t make unnecessary noise.
• A good general rule is to follow the city ordinances regarding noise.
• Always be courteous.

Be respectful if hosting a party

• If your plan to have a party, notify your neighbors in advance.
• Limit the number of guests to a reasonable number.
• Obey maximum capacity for the property.
• Try to keep any noise inside.
• Remind your guests to leave quietly.

Keep in mind:

• If you are living in the Midway area, you are surrounded by renters and home owners of various ages who are at various stages of life.
• Even if you and your roommates are respectful neighbors, animosity may still exist between you and your neighbors due to the lasting impressions of past renters.
• Many people may label your with a certain stereotype because you are a college student.
• It will be beneficial for all if you are aware of the stereotypes and work hard to leave your neighbors with a positive example.
• Your neighbors may be your best friends or your worst enemies. Always treat them with respect.

Your lease

• Remember that all of your roommates need to be listed on the lease.
• People who are not listed in the lease should not be living in your rental space.
• You cannot add or change the people who are living with your without consulting your landlord. Any changes must be added to the lease agreement.

Conduct of roommates

• You can be evicted because your roommate violates the lease agreement.

Rent responsibilities

• Each roommate is responsible for their share of the rent for the space.
• You will be able to maintain a good relationship with your roommate if you pay your part of the rent on time.

Utilities responsibilities

• There will usually be one name on the utility bill. This person is responsible for making sure the bill is paid on time.
• Make sure you and your roommates divide the cost of the utilities evenly. The individual listed on the bill should be responsible for collecting each share of the money. If he or she doesn’t, it will result in a bad credit score, late fees, etc.
• "Account rotations” are illegal. Account rotation is defined as failing to pay a bill in one individual’s name and then switching the bill into another roommate’s name and so on.

Roommate problems

• You cannot personally evict a roommate.
• You must contact your landlord and explain why he or she should not live in the space any longer.
• If you being threatened, harassed, or harmed by one of your roommates, you can seek legal action against him or her or file for a protection order with your local court.

Paying rent

• If you have one roommate paying the rent for the entire space, be sure they get a receipt and shares it with everyone.
• Be sure this person is responsible.

Hamline students suggest:

• Split the utility bill with your roommates evenly.
• Be sure each roommate understands what he or she is responsible for paying each month.
• Treat your roommates with the same respect you would if living in a Hamline dorm.
• Make an agreement with your roommates that no one will have friends over in the late night or early morning hours unless everyone agrees.
• Remember that sound travels in an apartment.
• If you borrow something, be sure to return it in the same condition in which you found it.
• Beware of rooming with best friends. Problems surrounding the paying of bills, sharing of belongings, and spending most of each day together have the potential to end great friendships.
• If your roommate violates a “no pets” clause in your lease, be sure that there is an understanding that they will be responsible for the consequences.
• It can be difficult to keep your groceries separate from your roommates’ groceries. By separating your refrigerator and cabinets, it will be easy to be sure each roommate is responsible for their groceries.
• Before having a social gathering or inviting any guests to the property, be sure each roommate has agreed. If anyone objects, it would be best to respect the wishes of that individual.
• If one roommate is responsible for hosting a social gather in the space, they should be responsible for replacing anything that becomes damaged and to clean the space to restore it to its “pre-party” condition.