As a University of Waterloo undergraduate student, you have access to a range of free legal services through the Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA). Whether you’re dealing with questions about your lease, employment rights, academic policies, or immigration concerns, WUSA’s Student Legal Protection Program is here to help, at no cost to you. 

You don’t need to wait until you have an issue to consult these services either! You can proactively use their services to review an offer letter from a potential employer or review a lease to ensure you’re protected in the future.  

What Does the Student Legal Protection Program Offer? 

The Student Legal Protection Program is designed to provide students with clear, confidential, and professional legal advice. This service covers a variety of common legal matters that undergraduates often face, including 

• Housing issues such as leases, evictions, and landlord disputes 
• Employment questions and workplace rights 
• Academic-related legal concerns 
• Immigration and student visa matters 
• Other legal challenges impacting your student experience 

These services are completely free where students can seek guidance without worrying about legal fees or costs. 

Specialized Support for Housing Challenges 

Housing is a major concern for many students, particularly those living off campus. To assist with navigating the complexities of the local rental market, WUSA partners with Waterloo Region Community Legal Services to offer free tenancy sessions. These workshops provide expert advice on tenant rights, lease agreements, eviction processes, and how to handle disputes with landlords. 

For students unfamiliar with Ontario’s rental laws, these sessions are an invaluable resource to help ensure your housing situation is stable and fair. 

Keep an eye out for upcoming tenancy workshops here: Housing Events! 

The WUSA Housing Playbook: Your Rental Resource 

Beyond legal advice, WUSA offers the Housing Playbook—a comprehensive guide designed specifically for students. This playbook breaks down your rights as a tenant and offers practical tips to successfully navigate renting as a student, from finding the right place to understanding your lease obligations. 

You can access the playbook anytime at: WUSA Housing Playbook.

Taking advantage of these free legal services and housing resources can empower you to handle challenges confidently throughout your time at Waterloo. If you ever find yourself facing a legal question or housing concern, remember that WUSA’s Student Legal Protection Program is just a click away. 

For more information, visit: Student Legal Protection Program – Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association.

Maliha Karim  

Communications Coordinator Co-op