Don't sign a blank bond form. That's the advice from the Otago University Students' Association to students hoping to get their bonds back.
It comes as most students vacate rental flats and head home for summer.
OUSA student support manager Sage Burke said the amount refunded to tenants had to be agreed upon by the tenant and the landlord, not just one party,
"Our No 1 top tip is do not sign a blank bond form,'' he said.
"Only sign the bond form once the final inspection is complete and an amount for the bond refund has been agreed on.''
OUSA 2017 president Hugh Baird said, like every other year, there had been some "ups and downs'' but overall, he was happy with how it went.
He did not have many expectations when he stepped into the role at the start of the year, but found it to be more enjoyable than he thought it would be.
"I knew it was going to be probably pretty tough ... Overall I think there's only been a few days when I have cursed the world, but the rest of the time has been pretty enjoyable.''
He was pleased with the initiatives the OUSA had set up, such as free flu jabs, 24-hour study spaces and improving the rubbish collection in the student area.
Mr Baird, who has taken a job in Auckland, told the new executive to take the good with the bad.
"Just enjoy it - make the most of it,'' he said.
Mr Burke said it had been a fantastic year and the OUSA had carried out some great campaigns.
He said the number of students who needed help during the exam period was similar to other years.
While fewer students would be around during summer, the student support team would still be looking out for those at Summer School, and preparing for next year.
This would include making thousands of flat packs with some information and "goodies'' to deliver to flats, he said.
"We are always here to support students and students are always making use of our services.''
JESSICA.WILSON @thestar.co.nz
