Off-Campus Housing

We’re here to help you navigate the process of finding your ideal home away from campus. As you explore our guide, you’ll find insights on what to consider when choosing accommodation, from location and safety to budgeting and lease terms. We’ve also provided tips on avoiding rental scams, understanding your rights as a tenant, and making the most of available College supports. Our goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision and enjoy a smooth transition into your new living space.

What to look for in a place to live

Learn about factors that could impact your decision.

Need Help or Support

Find out who to contact if you run into issues.

Types of Accommodations

Explore the variety of options available.

Off-Campus Safety

Learn about preventative measures that can help keep you safe.

Expenses

Find out about additional expenses that you may incur as a renter.

What to look for in a place to live

When searching for off-campus accommodation consider the following factors: 

• Location: Think about the distance from RRC Polytech Campuses, accessibility to Winnipeg Transit Public Transportation , grocery stores, and other amenities.
• Safety: Choose accommodation in safe neighbourhoods and look for features like secure entrances and well-lit areas.
• Budget: Determine your rental budget, factoring in additional costs like groceries, utilities, internet, and transportation.
• Lease length: Look for a lease length that matches your academic schedule. Carefully review the terms and conditions of your lease agreement to fully understand before signing. 
• Furnishing: Check if the accommodation is furnished and what that includes or unfurnished, and budget for what you need to furnish it.
• Amenities: Consider amenities such as laundry facilities, utilities, internet, and parking
• Condition:  Work with your landlord to complete a Condition Report for your accommodation when you move in and make sure that you agree with the Condition Report before you sign it.

Additional Resources

• Before You Rent – a Tenant’s Guide
• What Manitoba Tenants Need to Know

Need Help or Support

Tenancy Issues 

If you are experiencing issues with your landlord, visit the Government of Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch website. Call the Residential Tenancies office nearest you: 

• In Winnipeg: 204-945-2476
• Toll free 1-800-782-8403

Financial Emergency 

If you’re experiencing a financial emergency, contact the Student Service Centre to set up a meeting with a financial aid and awards officer who can help you understand your options.  

How to Spot and Avoid Scams

Be cautious and aware of rental scams. Here are some tips: 

• Trust your instincts. If something feels off or suspicious, proceed with caution. Examples include:
  • Rent much lower than market rate.
  • Requests for deposit without signing a formal rental agreement.
  • Advertisements showing only the exterior or pictures that do not match the actual property.
• Do not send money without seeing the property and confirming its legitimacy.
• Research your landlord. Search the internet for the name, phone number and address
• Use secure payment methods such as bank transfers or credit cards for rent and deposits. Avoid wire transfers or sending cash.

College Supports  

Starting your future can be exciting yet busy. RRC Polytech is committed to your academic and personal success. RRC Polytech provides valuable Supports to help you navigate challenges: 

• Indigenous Student Supports
• International Education Student Support
• Centre for Newcomer Integration
• Campus Well-Being

Types of Accommodations 

Whether you rent a house with other students or have your own apartment, consider the types of accommodations typically available.

• Bedroom in a House/Apartment – Usually with a private bedroom and shared kitchen, bathroom, and common area.
• Bedroom in Landlord’s Accommodation – Usually a furnished bedroom in a private home with shared kitchen (sometimes a private bath).
• Homestay – A room within the home of a local host, often living as part of the family and typically include meals.  
• Apartment in House – 1-2 Bedroom or a Bachelor/Studio with a private bathroom and kitchen self-contained unit within a house 
• Apartment – 1-2 Bedroom or a Bachelor/Studio with a private bathroom and kitchen self-contained within the building
• House – A full house which may or may not include furnishings.

Off-Campus Safety 

Ensuring a safe environment involves taking preventative safety measures. Take responsibility for your own safety and the security of your personal belongings by following these guidelines. 

Safety and Security Tips

• Never walk alone at night.
• Keep doors and windows locked.
• Keep valuables out of sight 
• Do not advertise when you are away. Avoid leaving notes on the front door letting people know you are out.
• Find out who is knocking before you open the door.
• Always use the door’s deadbolt; a chain lock is not sufficient.
• If you think you are being followed, cross the street, change directions, or vary your pace.
• Keep your keys in your possession.

Fire Safety Tips

• Do not cover smoke detectors or remove their batteries.
• Clean the ventilation grills if the smoke detector seems too sensitive.
• Replace the battery if the smoke detector is continuously beeping.
• Do not drink or smoke alone
• Watch food carefully while cooking
• Extinguish a grease fire with baking soda or class B fire extinguisher.
• Never tamper with electrical wiring, and do not overload outlets.
• Learn how to escape from a fire – know two ways out of every room and where the fire extinguisher is located.
• See 10 Fire Safety Tips

Expenses

Tips for budgeting

When renting as a student, consider not only the advertised rent but also several hidden costs that can impact your budget:

• Utilities: Most rentals include utilities like water and garbage collection, but you may need to pay separately for electricity, gas, internet, and cable. These costs can add up especially during extreme weather seasons.
• Security Deposits: Many landlords require a security deposit upfront. This deposit is usually refundable but is often used to cover any damage beyond normal wear and tear when you move out.
• Renter’s Insurance: You may need renters’ insurance to cover potential damage to your belongings or liability claims. This insurance is purchased through various organizations in Winnipeg (banks, insurance companies, and others). 
• Parking Fees: If you have a vehicle, check for additional parking costs.
• Maintenance Costs: While landlords are responsible for major repairs, you may be responsible for minor maintenance, like changing light bulbs or replacing air filters. 
• Furniture and Supplies: If the rental is unfurnished (most likely), budget for furniture, kitchen supplies, bedding, and other essentials. Even furnished apartments may lack items you need or prefer.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Be aware of additional fees like late payment charges, pet fees (if applicable), or fees for amenities such as gym access or laundry facilities.

To avoid surprises, carefully review your lease agreement and ask the landlord or property manager about any potential additional costs before signing. Budgeting for these hidden costs upfront will help you manage your finances responsibly while renting as a student.