General Leasing Questions
Are these apartments only for students?
What are individual leases?
An individual lease is a rental agreement which allows residents occupying the same unit to pay rent installments separately. Each resident is responsible for their own bedroom/bed space and any communal areas in the apartment. If your roommate(s) decide to break the lease, you will not be held responsible.
What are your rental requirements?
SoCam290 supports the Fair Housing Act as amended, prohibiting discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or familial status. All residents must have a monthly income of at least 3x the monthly rent. If the resident does not meet this requirement, they can provide a guarantor (co-signer) who does. All applicants and/or guarantors are subject to a criminal and/or credit check with approval through a third-party applicant screening agency.
How do I apply?
Applications can be completed online by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ tab on the SoCam 290 website! If you need assistance with your application please contact the Leasing Office – we are happy to help!
How much is the application fee and security deposit?
While we don't require a security deposit, an application fee of $50 (non-refundable) is due upon completion of your application, and an administrative fee of $300 (non-refundable) will be due once your application is approved.
What is included in my rental installment?
Your rent installment includes complimentary WIFI, electric, gas, trash removal, pest control, and access to all community amenities. Water/sewer is billed separately each month.
Is there a laundry facility?
Yes – there is a laundry facility on site. It is $1.25 per wash and $1.25 per dry.
Do you provide roommate matching if I do not have a roommate?
No roommates? No problem! There is a section in the application that gives you the opportunity to submit a roommate profile which allows us to match you with your future roommate(s). We look closely at the information both you and your potential roommates have provided in your application and work to find people that have the same or similar preferences. Although we don’t guarantee a perfect math, you can rest assured that we do our best to find you a great roommate!
Is renter’s insurance required?
Yes – all residents are required to provide proof of renter’s insurance. We do offer renter’s insurance for a small fee per installment, through Assurant. You may also use your own provider. Renter’s insurance is generally inexpensive and covers your belongings. We require all policies to have $100,000 worth of personal liability coverage and $10,000 worth of personal property/content coverage.
What is your pet policy?
SoCam290 is a pet-friendly community! We allow non-aggressive breeds no more than 70 pounds. There is a one-time pet fee of $350 (non-refundable) and $40 per month pet rent. Ask your Leasing Professional for more information.
What are my options for parking?
Discounted parking is available for Rutgers students through the New Brunswick Parking Authority. Their office is located at 106 Somerset St. 6th Floor, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 and can be reached at 732-545-3118. The Morris Street Deck is approximately 20 feet from our front door!
What should I bring to my new apartment?
- Kitchenware/dishes
- Bedding
- Bathroom essentials
- Cleaning supplies
- Decor
When is my rental installment due and how can I pay?
Rent installments are due on the 1st of each month. Payments can be made through your online resident portal. You can view your balance, submit an electronic check, or pay with a Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover from any computer or smartphone. Visit www.socam290.com and click the “Residents” tab. There is a 3.5% convenience fee to make payments with credit card, an additional $6.95 for using a debit card, and the use of an electronic check is free. Payments can also be made by personal check or money order at the leasing office. Please note that the final rent installment is not prorated.
What are my options for breaking my lease?
Your lease contract is legally binding. If you are unable to carry out the full length of your lease you will need to find a replacement to take over your contract. Please contact the leasing office for more information.
I have locked myself out of my apartment. What do I do?
During office hours, a staff member will be able to let you into your apartment. After hours, please call the maintenance emergency hotline at 732-565-3670. We will get you in contact with our on-call staff who will be able to let you into your apartment. A $75 charge will be added to your account after the first lock out. After your second lockout, you will be charged $150. If a third lockout occurs it will require a lock change and a $375 fee.
How do I contact maintenance if I need work done in my apartment?
You may submit a maintenance request using the resident portal. If it is an emergency, please contact the leasing office immediately. After hours, please contact the maintenance technician on duty at 732-565-3670.
How do I receive my mail and packages?
Mail will be delivered to your mailbox located in the mailroom in the lobby. Packages will be delivered through the Parcel Pending locker system also located in the lobby. Ask your Leasing Professional how to sign up today!
How far are you from campus?
SoCam 290 is located approximately 1.2 miles from both the Cook/Douglass and College Avenue campuses! We are located across the Raritan River from Busch and Livingston, but a Rutgers University bus stops directly outside our building!
Can my partner/spouse live with me? What if I have children?
Of course! We require each adult over the age of 18 to complete a separate application and lease. Children are also welcome at SoCam 290! Please see our Leasing Professionals for specific details and rental criteria.
Can additional furniture be brought into the apartment?
Absolutely! You are welcome to bring additional furniture with you, but keep in mind that all of our apartments are fully furnished so none of the provided furniture can be removed.
What types of leases are available?
We offer 12 installment leases, but may occasionally have short-term installments available. Contact our office for details!