Utilities (Student)

Heat, hot water and trash removal are always included in rent for all residents.

Electricity and cooking gas are included in the rent for students who live in apartment shares or dorms, and most students in private, couple and family apartments.

  • The inclusion of utility charges in rent typically saves student residents $100-$200 per month, depending on the size of the unit.
  • Residents who do not have service should reach out to their building super for assistance.

Building owners are legally required to provide heat and hot water to residents:

  • Hot water must be available year-round at a constant minimum temperature of 120°F.
  • Heat must be provided from October 1 through May 31.

For more details, residents can review the Columbia Residential Heat & Hot Water Policy.

image of temperature requirement during winter months

Columbia Residential does not provide phone or cable TV services.

  • However, most apartments are wired for cable, and residents who wish to obtain these services must arrange them through an external provider (e.g. SpectrumVerizon, etc.).

Internet Service varies by building across the student housing portfolio. Residents can view the service available in their building by logging into the Housing Portal to review the amenities link on the Assignment page.


ApartmentNet (Wired Internet Service)

Columbia University Information Technology (CUIT) provides ApartmentNet, a wired internet service available in over 100 Columbia Residential buildings equipped with Ethernet jacks in every apartment.

Pre-Installed Wi-Fi

In select student apartment buildings, Wi-Fi is pre-installed. Residents in these buildings may contact [email protected] for troubleshooting.

Wi-Fi-enabled buildings include:

  • 74 West 108th Street
  • 124 La Salle Street
  • 608 West 113th Street
  • 608 West 114th Street
  • 610 West 113th Street
  • 610 West 114th Street
  • 614 West 114th Street
  • 3260 Henry Hudson Parkway

Wi-Fi Not Included

Residents in units not equipped with an internet connection will need to contact an outside internet service provider.(e.g. SpectrumVerizon, etc.).