What to Know Before Signing a Lease for Lehigh Off Campus Housing
Signing a lease for Lehigh off campus housing is one of those big college moments. It’s exciting, it’s a little stressful, and it’s usually the first time you and your friends are making a real adult decision together.
If you’re searching for housing near Lehigh University, especially on popular student streets like Carlton Avenue, Montclair Avenue, Vine Street, or Thomas Street, you’ve probably already noticed one thing:
The good houses go fast.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know before signing, in plain student friendly language, so you can lock in a great place without surprises later.
Quick Answer
Before signing any lease, always confirm:
• Lease length
• Utilities
• Roommate liability
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Subletting rules
• Neighborhood location
Start Looking Early (Seriously)
Most Lehigh students sign leases in September, the season starts for the next academic year.
That means if you want the best Lehigh housing, you should start touring in the fall.
The most in demand streets include:
• Carlton Avenue (closest and most social)
• Montclair Avenue (balanced and quieter)
• Thomas Street (residential and great for studying)
• Vine Street (central and close to downtown Bethlehem)
Understand the Lease Term
Most student leases in Bethlehem are 12 months, usually August through July.
Even if you’re only living there during the school year, you may still be paying for summer unless you sublet.
Ask these questions:
• Can we sublet our rooms in summer?
• What happens if someone studies abroad?
• Is the lease individual or shared?
Know What Utilities Are Included
Utilities can add up, especially in winter.
Before signing, confirm what is included in rent and what you’ll pay separately.
Most student rentals require tenants to cover:
• Electric
• Gas and heat
• Internet
• Sometimes water and trash
This matters when comparing apartments near Lehigh University versus full student houses.
Roommate Liability Matters
Here’s the part no one talks about enough:
Most leases are joint and several liability.
That means if one roommate doesn’t pay, the landlord can legally come after the rest of you.
Before signing, talk about:
• Who collects rent each month
• How bills get split
• What happens if someone backs out
Maintenance and Repairs
Ask what the landlord handles versus what tenants handle.
Landlords usually cover:
• Furnace repairs
• Plumbing issues
• Appliance replacement
Tenants usually handle:
• Snow shoveling
• Replacing light bulbs
• Keeping the house clean
Always report issues in writing (texts and emails count).
Tour the Property and Watch for Red Flags
Never sign a lease without seeing the inside.
A good student house should feel safe, clean, and well maintained.
Neighborhood Matters More Than You Think
When students search Lehigh off campus housing, they often focus only on the house.
But the street matters just as much.
Carlton Avenue
Closest walk, most social, highest demand.
Montclair Avenue
Still walkable, slightly quieter, great balance.
Thomas Street
Residential feel, popular with upperclassmen, more space.
Vine Street
Central location, close to campus and downtown Bethlehem.
Choose based on your lifestyle, not just rent.
Next Step
CollegevilleLiving offers walkable Lehigh student housing on the best streets near campus.
Text 484 206 5522 to schedule a tour.
