Find Off-Campus Housing

You must independently contact or visit the property to apply. The Office of Residence Life cannot apply on your behalf.

The application process may include filling out a lease application, providing a security deposit and/or application fee, and undergoing a credit check to be approved for the apartment. In some instances, a co-signer may be required.

Let the leasing staff know that you are a Howard University student, faculty member, or staff to see if any discounts apply.

Leases normally occur in 12-, 9-, 6-, and sometimes 3-month intervals. Some properties allow month-to- month leases. However, a 12-month lease is the norm.

Shorter leases, to include the month-to-month option, normally come with a higher monthly payment. Be sure to make it clear to your leasing office the kind of lease you prefer.

Private property owners set their own application and lease requirements. Students may be asked to complete an application, pay an application fee or security deposit, and authorize a credit check.

For a long-term rental in the District of Columbia, verify the property owner's licensing before signing a lease or sending payment. Search the property address or owner in the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection's SCOUT database and confirm that the rental has an active Basic Business License and the required inspection status.

The former Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) transitioned into two agencies in 2022. The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) handles business licensing and consumer protection. The Department of Buildings (DOB) handles building permits, inspections, code enforcement, and rental-property maintenance standards.

If the license is missing, expired, or does not match the property, pause before making a payment and contact the property manager or DLCP for clarification.

Payment methods vary.

Students use scholarships, grants, private funding, and loans to pay for their housing accommodations.

You can check with your funder or the Office of Financial Aid to determine if you can use your funding to pay for your off campus housing.

Yes! It is recommended that you update your current address in your BisonWeb account.

For safety and quality of life purposes, it is encouraged that you update your address in the BisonWeb system.

Failure to do so may result in a “hold” being placed on your account resulting in your inability to register for classes.

It is expected that you will be a respectful resident and citizen.

While you have the right to enjoy your living experience, you do not have the right to infringe on the rights of those in the community who want to live peacefully.

The District of Columbia has enacted the Disorderly Conduct Amendment Act of 2010; therefore, loud noises and partying must be kept to a minimum. Unreasonably loud noises may NOT occur between 10:00pm and 7:00am. If you find yourself in violation of this act, you may be subject to complaints, eviction, arrest, subject to a misdemeanor and upon conviction, fined, imprisoned or both.

Complaints from the community may be registered with this office and may result in penalties from the University. Proven repetitive noise complaints will result in conduct disciplinary actions and even expulsion from the University.