Quick Links
- Energy Challenge
- Internship Program
- Campus Report
- Green Teams
- E-Waste Days
- No Waste
- IMU Charette
- Get Involved
- Campus Sustainability Advisory Board
- Student Sustainability Council
- Themester
Not sure what to look for when choosing a rental? Include sustainability in your considerations to find a home that best suits your needs, helps you to be more eco-conscious, and may save you money! Compare the sustainability of your housing choices for next year using the criteria below. Click here to download a Word document of the checklist to record your own notes of the properties you are considering.
Transportation:
- Can you easily walk or bike to the places you go to regularly? Go to www.walkscore.com to find out.
- What bus lines will you have access to throughout the day? Check the IU Campus Bus and the Bloomington Transit bus routes.
Waste:
- Can you recycle on-site? Is there a fee?
- Is the trash fee pay-as-you-throw ($2/bag if it's through the city), or is it included in your monthly rent?
Water:
- Does the rental have low-flow plumbing fixtures and faucet aerators? Check out these flush facts vs. myths.
Energy:
- What will electric and gas cost each month? During the winter?
- Is there insulation in the walls, basement, and attic?
- Are the windows double-paned, or are there storm windows?
- Is the landlord willing to make weatherization improvements? Or will he/she let you make improvements?
- Is there a programmable thermostat?
- Are there energy efficient fixtures (water saving devices, LED lighting, etc…)?
- Are there energy efficient appliances? (Look for Energy Star Rating for better energy performance.)
Additional resources:
- Learn more about Energy Saving Tips for Renters and Apartment Hunting with an Eye to Energy Savings.
- Moving out and have furniture, appliances, or clothing you no longer want? Donate them to Hoosier to Hoosier.
