As if finals aren’t overwhelming enough, each December, students seeking off-campus housing find themselves drenched in leases, security deposits and everything else related to the responsibility of renting an apartment.

Before the end of the semester, students will begin to seek shelter for fall 2003.

A city ordinance passed by the City Council two years ago was drafted to counteract a trend of an increasingly competitive housing market, which saw students signing leases on apartments as early as September for the following fall.

The ordinance prohibits landlords from asking tenants if they wish to renew their leases until at least one-third of the duration of the lease has passed.

In the case of a 12-month lease beginning Aug. 15, the date on which landlords can legally ask residents to renew their leases in Madison is Dec. 15.

Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said he thinks Dec. 15 is a less-than-ideal date to usher in the apartment-renting season.

“Dec. 15 is near finals and is difficult for students going abroad,” said Verveer, who added that it has caused as many problems as it was aimed to eliminate. “Despite law, landlords and renters are finding ways to get around the law.”

Verveer also cited a growing number of student apartments in the area as an added reason to avoid rushing to rent.

“I can understand temptation to get going, but I don’t think it’s necessary to start renting this early, ” he said.

The ordinance also forbids property managers from showing apartments to prospective tenants prior to Dec. 15.

Finding a moderately priced, convenient and secure location is often a challenge. However, for many, choosing roommates is a bigger challenge.

To alleviate apartment-related stress, the University of Wisconsin offers a number of off-campus housing resources and services.

Tanya Stanfield, campus coordinator at the Tenant Resource Center, recommends looking closely at your prospective housemates.

“Your best friend is not always a compatible roommate.” Stanfield warned. “We encourage people not to rent too early if uncertain about a roommate situation.”

Because roommates can have different ideas about parties, cleaning, bills or other significant issues, the Tenant Resource Center advises students to draft roommate agreements before the start of the lease.

“Roommate agreements state who is responsible for issues ranging from costs incurred each month to guests, pets and household duties,” Stanfield said.

In a situation of adversity, conflicted roommates can seek the help of the UW Housing Mediation Service, which provides people in disagreement the opportunity to meet with a trained, impartial mediator for a small fee.

Verveer recommends students try not to worry about the approaching date.

“I don’t think students should be concerned if they have not begun their search before break. There is no shortage of student apartments in the campus area. And in fact, the student-construction housing boom shows no signs of stopping,” said Verveer, who recommends apartment hunters seek advice from local resources.

“It’s always a good idea to look at an apartment or talk to current tenants of that landlord. Renters can also call the Tenant Resource Center with any questions,” he added.