Housing Search

At time of listing, properties on the Syracuse University Off-Campus Housing Search website have been checked by Student Living to:

• confirm rental ability;
• ensure no pending City of Syracuse code violations;
• have proper rental Occupancy Certificates on file;
• ensure that within the last three years, properties have received an internal and external site inspection by City of Syracuse Code Enforcement.

Inclusion of any property, manager or landlord in the off-campus housing search site (housing.offcampus.syr.edu) does not constitute, and shall not be construed or reported as (1) an endorsement or approval by Syracuse University or Off Campus Partners of the landlord, its properties or its business practices, or (2) a warranty or representation by Syracuse University or Off Campus Partners as to the quality, safety or other features of such property and/or its owners or management agent(s). Syracuse University and Off Campus Partners expressly disclaim any and all responsibility for any problems that may arise with regard to such property or rental units, or with regard to disputes between landlords and tenants concerning such property or rental units. All prospective tenants are encouraged to exercise their own good judgment when evaluating a prospective rental unit or landlord.

• How close to campus do you want to be?
• How close to other services do you want to be (e.g., stores, food, bus transportation, etc.)?
• Are you looking for a house, apartment complex, studio apartment, single or shared rental?
• How many roommates will you have?
• How much can you afford and what is your budget?
• Do you need parking on or off-street?
• If on-street parking is needed, what are the rules and City of Syracuse codes?
• What is the length of a lease you will need?
• Will you have pets?
• Will you need furnishings or do you need to rent a furnished property?
• Do you need onsite laundry services or will you utilize off-site locations?

• Is the area well lit?
• Have I viewed outside the property and the surrounding area during the day and at night?
• Are there signs of damage, graffiti or vandalism?
• Does the area appear well-maintained or neglected?
• Does the property have a fire alarm system?
• Does the property have a security alarm/system?
• Introduce yourself to neighbors and share that you are looking to rent a property in the area. Ask about the neighborhood environment and safety.
• Call the City of Syracuse Division of Code Enforcement at 315.448.8695 to inquire about any code violations and inspections that occurred with the property.

• Find multiple properties that meet needs such as budget. Students are encouraged to use the Syracuse University Off-Campus Housing search website, as at the time of listing properties are checked to ensure they have not received City of Syracuse code violations, that within the last three years properties have received an internal and external site inspection by City of Syracuse Code Enforcement and more.
• Schedule a time to meet with the property manager/landlord to view the property.
• Document the condition of the property, both interior and exterior.
• Check that all safety mechanisms are in working order. Items to check include the following.
  • Windows open, close and lock.
  • Doors lock.
  • Interior and exterior lighting works.
  • Sidewalk and stairs are well-maintained.
  • There are clear fire escape routes.
• Ask about utilities and if any are included in rent.
• Does the property have enough space for you and any roommates to sleep and study adequately?
• Make note how far it is to the nearest bus stop if you will need to utilize public transportation.
• Ask who is responsible for any yard maintenance and snow shoveling.
• Ask how maintenance requests are made.

As a legal arrangement made effective at time of signing, the lease outlines the tenant and landlord responsibilities. It is important to review the lease in detail prior to signing, as it will include everything expected of the tenant and details what the landlord will provide.

Prior to signing a lease, students are encouraged to have the lease reviewed by an attorney to ensure they understand the terms to which they would be legally bound. Undergraduate students have access to Student Legal Services as part of their Student Fee; this team can provide lease reviews.

The City of Syracuse has several different neighborhoods, each with their own identity. The Neighborhoods in Syracuse webpage offers descriptions.

• Outer Comstock Neighborhood Association
• Southeast University Neighborhood Association (SEUNA)
• University Hill
• Westcott
• Westcott East Neighborhood Association (Westcott Neighborhood Association)