With the rising cost of living, grocery bills have become one of the most significant expenses for students living off-campus. However, with careful planning and strategic shopping, it’s possible to eat well without breaking the bank. The key lies in knowing where to shop, when to buy, and how to take advantage of available resources—both in stores and through campus support systems.
Being prepared for emergencies is an important component of living off-campus. Having a plan will help you navigate unexpected situations confidently and effectively.
When I signed my first off-campus lease, I was so excited to start living on my own that I did not think much about the details. I skimmed through the contract, handed over my deposit, and just assumed that everything would work out on its own. Spoiler alert: it did not. At least, not right away like I thought it would.
Date
Thursday January 22, 2026Location
John Deutsch University Centre- Wallace HallWhen: January 22nd, 1pm-4pm
Where: John Deutsch University Centre, Wallace Hall
All Queen's University students are welcome to attend this free event! Meet potential landlords/property management companies, the Off-Campus Living Advisors, and the AMS Housing Resource Centre Staff all in one place.
Students, all you have to do is show up with questions to ask!
Please note: leases are not allowed to be signed at this event. Landlords and property managers attending the event, have no affiliation to Queen's University and are by no means recommended and/or vetted. Independent research and due diligence is required
With the holidays coming up in December, the University Winter Shutdown, and many students going home for the break, it’s important to leave your home in good shape before you go.
If you’re renting a place in Ontario, you might come across different types of leases. Two common ones are joint and several leases and individual leases. Knowing the differences between these can help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Let’s explore them in a simple way.
What is a Joint and Several Lease?
Signing a lease agreement is one of the most important steps when securing Off-Campus housing, yet many students rush through the process without fully understanding their rights and responsibilities. Lease-related issues are common, but they can often be avoided by taking proactive measures before putting pen to paper. The first and most crucial step is to have your lease reviewed by the Off-Campus Living Advisor (OCLA) at your university.
Date
Thursday November 20, 2025Location
Four Directions (144 Barrie Street)This event is for Indigenous students only!
As students move toward researching off-campus housing, finding roommates can be a bit stressful.
This evening on Thursday, November 6th, Off-Campus Living will be facilitating a roommate search social event.
Come hang out, participate in fun activities and games, eat snacks, and meet other Indigenous students also looking for roommates!
Are you an outgoing exchange student for this upcoming winter term (January to April)? If you are going on exchange and planning to find a subtenant, it is important to distinguish between a sublet and an occupancy arrangement, as they are treated differently under Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act (RTA).
Before signing a lease with your friends, it is important you truly know each other and have taken the time to discuss what you want your house environment to look like. Sharing a living space with a roommate can be a rewarding and cost-effective choice but it is not without its challenges. Here are some tips I have learned along the way to finding the perfect roommates.
