RENTAL ACCOMMODATIONS

In the Comox Valley, accommodations can be found advertised in the local newspapers, on bulletin boards at super-markets and shopping malls and also "Suite for Rent" signs in windows and in front of apartment buildings.

Average rental cost for good quality and location is as follows;

• Apartment Bachelor Suite $450 - $500 per month
• One Bedroom Apartment $500 - $525 per month
• Two Bedroom Apartment $625 - $700 per month
• One Bedroom Suites in Private Homes $500 - $600 per month

Most of these accommodations will include a refrigerator and cooking stove. A clothes washer, and clothes dryer are either included within the suite or located in the building for your use. Heat and light will also be included in your rent with some of these suites, but this must be confirmed before renting. A damage deposit is sometimes required, but will be returned to you, with interest, when you leave (if the suite is undamaged). Note that normal "wear" is not considered damage. The amount of the damage deposit varies and is usually a separate deposit. Also, it is not uncommon for the first and last month's rent to be paid in advance.

Some things to consider are;

• The majority of apartments are rented unfurnished.
• Such necessities as furniture, linens, cooking utensils, and dishes are not included.
• When all expenses are considered your total cost will probably be much higher than Homestay.

We strongly recommend that, before renting your own accommodations, you participate in the Homestay program for at least one month. This will allow time for you to become more knowledgeable of the area and also to find accommodations that meet your requirements.

If you would like to become familiar with your legal rights as a renter in British Columbia browse through the British Columbia government's Residential Tenancy Office site.