What to Do With Your Apartment Over Summer Break

Most off-campus leases run 12 months, which means you're paying rent from August through July — even during the three months you're likely to be home or traveling. Summer rent is one of the biggest hidden costs of off-campus living, but there are real options for dealing with it.

Option 1: Subletting Your Unit

Subletting means temporarily renting your apartment to someone else while you're away, with your name still on the original lease. If your lease allows it, this is the most effective way to cover your rent over the summer.

A few things to know before subletting:

• Check your lease first. Many leases prohibit subletting or require landlord approval. Don't sublet without checking — it can be grounds for eviction.
• Get written permission. Even if your lease allows subletting, email your landlord to confirm before you advertise.
• You remain responsible. If your subtenant doesn't pay or damages the unit, you're still on the hook. Only sublet to people you trust or who have strong references.
• Charge market rate. You can charge up to what you're paying. Don't charge more — that's typically prohibited.

Good places to find summer subtenants: Butler's student Facebook groups, the Butler Housing platform (if you have a listing), and word of mouth through your department or student organizations.

Option 2: Negotiate a Shorter Lease

Some Butler-area landlords offer 9-month (academic year) leases that run August through May. These leases typically cost slightly more per month than a 12-month equivalent, but you're not paying for summer months you won't use. If summer cost is a concern, this is worth asking about specifically when touring.

When searching on Butler Housing, look for listings that indicate lease term flexibility or academic-year availability. You can also ask landlords directly — some advertise 12-month leases but will negotiate a 9-month term for the right tenant.

Option 3: Budget for Summer Rent Upfront

If neither subletting nor a shorter lease is feasible, build summer rent into your annual housing cost calculation before signing. Three months of rent at $700/mo is $2,100 — that's real money, but it's manageable when you plan for it rather than get surprised by it.

Some students offset summer rent by:

• Taking a summer internship or job in Indianapolis and staying in the apartment
• Enrolling in summer classes and treating the apartment as a base
• Splitting the cost with roommates who are also staying (even if you're not)

Before You Leave: A Summer Prep Checklist

Whether you're subletting, staying, or just locking up and going home, run through this before you leave:

• Set the thermostat to a reasonable temperature (78–80°F) to avoid energy waste and humidity damage
• Unplug non-essential electronics and appliances
• Clean out the fridge and pantry — don't leave food that will spoil
• Lock all windows and deadbolts; don't leave a spare key in obvious spots
• Notify your landlord if you'll be away for an extended period
• Pause or redirect mail if you'll be gone all summer
• Check your renter's insurance policy — make sure it covers your belongings while the unit is vacant

Storage: What to Do With Your Stuff

If you're heading home but your apartment is empty, leave your stuff there — you're paying for the space. If you're subletting and need to clear out your room, options include:

• Self-storage near campus — several storage facilities operate close to Butler. Monthly rates for a small unit run $40–$80.
• A friend or family member's place — free is good
• Portable storage pods — delivered to your door, stored, and returned when you're back