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Guide to Living Off Campus

students.umw.edu/commuters

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3 Welcome!4 Is Living Off Campus Right for Me?6 Top 10 Checklist for Finding the Right Rental8 Rental Comparison10 Questions to Ask Your Landlord12 Moving Budget Worksheet14 How to Sign the Right Lease16 Move-In Day18 Move-In Inventory20 Renters Insurance22 Roommates24 Landlords26 Living in the Community28 Tenant Rights and Responsibilities30 Off Campus Conduct & Adjudication Policies32 Staying Connected to Campus34 Moving-Out Checklist

Table of Contents

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Dear UMW Student,

Welcome to the UMW Guide to Living Off Campus. We have been thrilled to have you on campus at Mary Washington, as we believe this experience has been essential to your success. Transition is a part of everyone’s life, and so, we offer this guide as a tool to help make the process of moving off campus smooth and worry free. Whether you are still a student or are graduating and moving on, the information in this guide will assist you in becoming an educated consumer.

Renting an apartment or home for the first time can be exciting, but it can also be stressful and time consuming. By being responsible for your living arrangements, you must accept the financial and legal obligations that go along with moving off campus. We hope to demystify the challenges of selecting a place to live, signing a lease, choosing roommates, and being safe and secure in your new surroundings. By taking the time to read and use the guide, you will be better prepared to make a confident choice in your living arrangement and set yourself up for a very successful year.

If you are about to graduate, we wish you all the luck as you make your way into the world outside of UMW. For continuing students, we look forward to assisting you as you embark on this new endeavor. We hope you find the contents of this guide helpful, and we wish you luck in your new home.

Sincerely,

Chris PorterDirector of Residence Life & Commuter Student Services

Welcome!

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Is Living Off Campus Right for Me?

Do I want more privacy?

Do I want to be more independent? Am I ok with the chance that living off campus can be isolating (especially if I don’t have a roommate)? Do I enjoy sharing personal space (kitchen, bathroom, living room) with others?

Am I ready for the financial responsibilities that come with living off campus including: rent, utilities, grocery bills, phone bill, internet, transportation, insurance, furnishings?

If you checked mostly “yes” boxes, then you are probably prepared and realistic about the responsibilities of moving off campus. If you answered mostly “no” or if you are unsure, then consider these questions and whether you are ready to take this step.

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Is Living Off Campus Right for Me?

Do I have a budget and an estimate of the amount of money I have to spend every month?

Do I have transportation (car, bike, bus)?

Do I know what type of rental (1 bedroom, etc.) & what amenities I will need (laundry room, pool, fitness room)?

Do I know how to cook and enjoy it? Am I capable of communicating with my roommates and neighbors to ensure a positive living environment? Do I know the city codes and state statutes that relate to me as a renter?

Do I know what I am going to do between classes when it’s not convenient to return home?

Am I ok with having to travel back to campus for extracurricular events or study sessions during the evenings and on weekends?

Before you begin your off campus housing search, take this survey to see if you are ready for the responsibilities that

come with moving off campus:

If you checked mostly “yes” boxes, then you are probably prepared and realistic about the responsibilities of moving off campus. If you answered mostly “no” or if you are unsure, then consider these questions and whether you are ready to take this step.

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1) DON’T RUSH! There is plenty of housing off campus… Take your time searching.

2) Know your budget. Choose a rental that is within your financial means even if it doesn’t have quite all the amenities you want. For more help with this, check out our budget worksheet on p. 12.

3) Create a list of wants/needs before you start your rental search. Necessities are easy to forget after a long day of rental searching.

4) Visit rental websites. Many sites have filters that include distance from campus and rental amenities.

5) Location, location, location. How far is the rental from campus? From a gas station? From the grocery store?

6) Drive around, or walk, to get a feel for your commute. Are you ok with walking 20 minutes to get to campus? Even during inclement weather? Will you be traveling during rush hour?

7) Take several tours before signing a lease. Don’t just sign at the first rental you tour. Shop around! Get the best value for your rent, find a landlord that you like and trust, and choose a place where you will feel safe and comfortable.

Top 10 Checklist for Finding the RIGHT RentalNow that you know living off campus is right for you, review this list for points to keep in mind while you look.

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Top 10 Checklist for Finding the RIGHT RentalNow that you know living off campus is right for you, review this list for points to keep in mind while you look.

8) Read the lease before you sign it! A lease is a binding legal agreement, and there are consequences if you break it. Make sure you know everything this document entails, and be prepared to comply.

9) Look for safety. Do all of the exterior doors have deadbolts? Are there security gates or security guards? Are there fire alarms, sprinklers, and/or extinguishers in the rental? How safe does the area feel at night?

10) Get a feel for the community. Is the complex or neighborhood quiet enough for you to sleep or study? Are the grounds well maintained? What are the neighbors like? Are there any local events or venues where residents can meet and socialize?

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Rental #1 Rental #2 Rental #3Parking

Water

Gas

Phone

Electric

Cable

Garbage/Recycling

Internet

Pets Allowed?

Pet Deposit

Furnished

Laundry

Pool

Gym

Distance to UMW

Yard Maintenance

Able to Sublease? `

Roommate Placement

Storage

Rental #1 Rental #2 Rental #3Rental Name

Address

Date & Time of Tour

Name of Landlord

Phone #

Email Address

Rent

Deposit/Redecoration FeeApplication Fee

Lease type

Lease Length

# Bedrooms

# Bathrooms

Security System

Bus Stop

Rental

Rental #1 Rental #2 Rental #3Parking

Water

Gas

Phone

Electric

Cable

Garbage/Recycling

Internet

Pets Allowed?

Pet Deposit

Furnished

Laundry

Pool

Gym

Distance to UMW

Yard Maintenance

Able to Sublease? `

Roommate Placement

Storage

Rental #1 Rental #2 Rental #3Rental Name

Address

Date & Time of Tour

Name of Landlord

Phone #

Email Address

Rent

Deposit/Redecoration FeeApplication Fee

Lease type

Lease Length

# Bedrooms

# Bathrooms

Security System

Bus Stop

Comparison

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Questions to Ask Your LandlordDon’ t be afraid to ask questions! You may be living there soon, so you want to get as much information as you can.

Here is a list to get you started:

1. When will the rental be available? 2. Is the lease fixed-term or month-to-month?3. What deposits are required?4. What is the monthly rent? When/how should it be paid? 5. Does the landlord provide receipts?6. What are the penalties for late rent payments? 7. Is there a grace period for late rent payments?8. What are the terms for renewing the lease?9. What are the penalties for breaking the lease?10. Are roommates permitted? How many? 11. Am I permitted to sublet?12. Are utilities included in the rent?13. What maintenance will I be responsible for?14. How often will the landlord come to the rental for inspection? Will advanced notice be given?15. Are TV/Internet services provided?16. How many parking spaces will I have? Is parking assigned? Where can guests park?17. Are pets allowed? What kind? Is there a pet deposit? 18. Are laundry facilities available on the premises?19. What are the procedures for trash removal? Recycling?20. What kind of security is available?

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Questions to Ask Your LandlordDon’ t be afraid to ask questions! You may be living there soon, so you want to get as much information as you can.

Here is a list to get you started:

21. What is the policy regarding quiet hours? Parties? Overnight guests? 22. Where are mail and packages delivered?23. Who do I contact in an emergency? Is there an on-site office or a 24-hour number for maintenance?24. What modifications am I allowed to make (painting, installing shelves, etc.)?25. Can I speak with current tenants in the community?

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Moving Budget WorksheetKeep in mind that a rental costs money before you move in. This could include a security deposit, redecoration fee, pet deposit, two months’ rent, upfront utilities costs, and moving expenses… Check out the moving budget so you know how much money you need before you begin your big move.

Moving ExpensesFirst Month’s Rent $______Security Deposit $______Pet Deposit $______Painting/Redecor Deposit $______Last Month’s Rent $______Application Fee $______Utilities Deposit $______Phone/Cable Deposit $______

Movers $______Truck Rental $______Gas for Rental $______Boxes/Moving Materials $______Storage $______Shipping $______Pet Travel/Boarding Fees $______Furniture $______Other_______________ $______Other_______________ $______Total: $_____

Moving Budget WorksheetKeep in mind that a rental costs money before you move in. This could include a security deposit, redecoration fee, pet deposit, two months’ rent, upfront utilities costs, and moving expenses… Check out the moving budget so you know how much money you need before you begin your big move.

InsuranceCar $______Renter’s $______Health $______Life $______

Personal MaintenanceClothing $______Laundry/Dry Cleaning $______Other $______

Debt/SavingsCredit Card Payments $______Loans $______Savings $______

EntertainmentVacations $______Pets/Pet Care $______Books, Magazine, CD’s, DVD’s, Games $______Gym Membership $______

Other: __________ $______Other: __________ $______Other: __________ $______

Total: $______

Monthly BudgetMonthly Income $______Scholarships $______Loans $______Monthly ExpensesTuition $______Books/Supplies $______Rent $______

UtilitiesElectric $______Heating Oil/Natural Gas $______Water $______Trash/Recycling $______Telephone $______Cable/Internet $______Groceries $______Dining out $______

TransportationCar Payment $______Gas $______Car Maintenance $______

Movers $______Truck Rental $______Gas for Rental $______Boxes/Moving Materials $______Storage $______Shipping $______Pet Travel/Boarding Fees $______Furniture $______Other_______________ $______Other_______________ $______Total: $_____

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How to Sign the Right Lease

Signing a lease may be one of the most important things you do when moving off campus. Make sure you read and fully

understand ALL parts of the lease before signing.

Lease – a legally binding contract between you and your landlord that spells out specific details of your living arrangement. Leases often involve policies about pets, deposits, legal entry and other important information. There are two major types of leases: Joint Leases and Individual Leases.

Individual Lease – a landlord holds each person responsible for his or her own actions. For instance, if one roommate breaks the lease, that person is still responsible for paying his or her own rent.

For most college students, individual leases are the best choice. Each person in the lease is responsible for his or her own actions and not the actions of a roommate. Most landlords have the option of providing you with a joint or individual lease, but be prepared to pay more for an individual lease.

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Signing a lease may be one of the most important things you do when moving off campus. Make sure you read and fully

understand ALL parts of the lease before signing.

Joint Lease – a landlord will hold all roommates responsible for the lease. If one person breaks the lease, the other roommates are held responsible for paying the TOTAL rent. A joint lease is most common when renting a house or single family dwelling.

For most college students, individual leases are the best choice. Each person in the lease is responsible for his or her own actions and not the actions of a roommate. Most landlords have the option of providing you with a joint or individual lease, but be prepared to pay more for an individual lease.

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MOVE-INDAY

You have found the right place to live, signed your lease and paid your deposit… Now you just have to move in! Below, you’ll find some suggestions for how to have a smooth move-in experience.

Ș First thing’s first: Make an appointment with the landlord for a date and time to pick up your keys.

Ș Figure out a time that you and your roommates can move in together. This helps when making decisions about furniture or storage.

Ș Enlist friends or family to help.

Ș Make sure you park legally when moving in to avoid tickets or towing.

Ș Don’t leave your doors unlocked in your car or rental; this is prime time for theft.

Ș Take pictures before you move in to verify any damages present. Complete a thorough written inventory of the rental’s condition (see p. 18) and have the landlord or an impartial witness sign the inventory. This helps protect you from the landlord claiming you caused pre-existing damage.

Ș Be careful – Damages while moving in will cost you money.

Ș Remember to stay hydrated especially in the summer months.

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You have found the right place to live, signed your lease and paid your deposit… Now you just have to move in! Below, you’ll find some suggestions for how to have a smooth move-in experience.

Ș Bring cleaning products to clean surfaces before putting your belongings away.

Ș Find out from your landlord the proper place to dispose of boxes or packing materials.

Ș Take your time - you don’t have to unpack in one day.

Ș Introduce yourself to your neighbors! Start building relationships in the community right away.

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Good Fair Poor N/A # CommentsBedroomsWalls

Floor/Carpets

Ceiling

Ceiling light

Dresser

Lamps

Tables/Chairs

Mattress/Frame

BathroomsWalls

Floor/Tile

Ceiling

Ceiling Light

Sink/Faucet

Toilet

Tub/Shower Head

Towel Racks

Medicine Cabinet

Living RoomWalls

Floors/Carpet

Ceiling

Ceiling Light

Couch/Chairs

Tables/Lamps

Move-in InventoryGood Fair Poor N/A # Comments

KitchenWalls

Floor/Tiles

Ceiling

Ceiling Light

Counter

Cabinets

Stove/Oven

Refrigerator

Microwave

Dishwasher

Disposal

OtherDrapes/Curtains

Blinds

Doors/Locks

Window Screens

Screen Door

Exterior Entrance

A/C Heat Unit

Water Heater

Smoke Detector

Alarm System

Garbage Bin

Garage Door

Keys

Resident Signature Date Resident Signature Date Resident Signature Date Resident Signature Date

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Move-in InventoryGood Fair Poor N/A # Comments

KitchenWalls

Floor/Tiles

Ceiling

Ceiling Light

Counter

Cabinets

Stove/Oven

Refrigerator

Microwave

Dishwasher

Disposal

OtherDrapes/Curtains

Blinds

Doors/Locks

Window Screens

Screen Door

Exterior Entrance

A/C Heat Unit

Water Heater

Smoke Detector

Alarm System

Garbage Bin

Garage Door

Keys

Resident Signature Date Resident Signature Date Resident Signature Date Resident Signature Date

Landlord Signature Date

� Additional documentation attached (photos, videos, repair bills, notifications)

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A renters policy commonly contains four separate sections:

Personal Property: provides protection for your personal property, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. This coverage limit is chosen by you when you purchase the policy. Loss of use: the additional expenses you incur when your rental cannot be used because of an insured loss. This part of the policy will usually only cover around 10 – 20% of your personal property value. Personal liability: covers damages to others for which you are held liable except as limited or excluded by the policy.Medical Payments to Others: pays for medical expenses for minor injuries to others even if you are not at fault. The policy normally includes limits of $1,000 – $5,000 per person.

Renters Insurance

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Some students can be covered under their parents/guardians homeowners insurance policy for a small additional fee. Sometimes, if you have your car insurance and renters insurance with the same company, you can get a discount. Most insurers also offer a discount for “protective devices,” including smoke and fire detectors, burglar alarms, and fire extinguishers.

Policies should include the following items: fire or lightning, windstorm or hail, explosion, smoke, vandalism or malicious mischief, theft, falling objects, sinkholes, electrical surge damage, water damage from plumbing, heating or A/C units. Flood damage requires a separate policy.

Renters insurance protects your

personal property in case of theft or

damage and may pay for temporary

living expenses if your rental is

damaged. Your personal property is

not the responsibility of your landlord

unless you can prove negligence.

Purchasing renters insurance is one

way to give yourself peace of mind.

Make sure you read ALL the literature provided by an insurance agency and ask many questions before agreeing to any policy.

Shop around! Find the policy that covers your needs. A small monthly fee can protect you and your belongings “just in case.”

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RoommatesUsefulInformation

Recipe for Happy Roommates• Complete a roommate agreement. Don’t wait! Have something in writing within the first couple of weeks in your new rental.

• Communicate. Let your roommate know about your little quirks and living preferences. If you’re feeling frustrated about something, speak your mind, but listen too. By communicating right away, you’ll address conflicts when they’re little and more easily resolved.

• Set up a schedule for trash removal, cleaning, and grocery shopping so one person is not stuck with all the chores.

• Consider getting a furnished rental so that issues don’t arise about who gets the couch when you move. If you do bring your own furniture, make a list of what belongs to each roommate, then sign and date the list.

Tips on starting, and keeping, positive roommate relationships

A roommate can both cut the cost of rent and make your off campus experience more enjoyable, but don’t feel like you have to be best friends to make perfect roommates. When finding a roommate, it is usually better to consider compatability of living habits than whether you are already friends.

•roommates smiling to-gether

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Help! My roommates and I are having problems.• Set up a time to talk. Make a list beforehand of the points you want to talk about, and only address the biggest ones. When you discuss, don’t use accusatory language that will make your roommate defensive. Simply share how your roommate’s behaviors make you feel and listen to your roommate’s feelings in turn. Be constructive and respectful.

• Try mediation. You can get roommate counseling for free at the Talley Center and the Office of Residence Life and Commuter Student Services. Together, you will come up with a plan for how to resolve the issues.

• Your lease is a binding contract – you can’t just move out. Remember this is only temporary, and all things come to an end. Whatever happens, always attempt to communicate positively.

• Talk to your landlord. In extreme situations you may be able to arrange a transfer or to sublease your room (if this is permitted in your lease).

Tips on starting, and keeping, positive roommate relationships

A roommate can both cut the cost of rent and make your off campus experience more enjoyable, but don’t feel like you have to be best friends to make perfect roommates. When finding a roommate, it is usually better to consider compatability of living habits than whether you are already friends.

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LandlordsUsefulInformation

• Do a thorough search when looking for a rental. Include your impression of the landlord when making your assessment.

• Come prepared with the necessary information when signing a lease. Common necessary items include: ID, social security card, permanent address information, and proof of being a student. Some landlords require references; call ahead and ask what you will need.

• Read the lease or rental agreement. Know what will be expected of you as a tenant. Make sure you get a copy of your signed lease.

• Get it in writing. Make sure any agreement is placed in writing, dated, and signed by both parties.

• Pay your rent on time; this is one of the surest ways to a happy landlord.

• Follow your lease guidelines and rental standards.

• Notify your landlord, in a timely fashion, anytime you have maintenance issues or have damaged any part of the rental.

• Maintain the rental and exterior grounds according to your lease.

• Dispose of your garbage properly; don’t let it pile up.

• Party responsibly. This includes not having open parties with people you don’t know, serving alcohol to minors, or allowing guest noise or music to disturb your neighbors. Remember that you are responsible for guests and any damages they might cause.

The key to a happy rental experience is a happy landlord. Below, find some useful information for how to develop a positive relationship with your landlord.

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Questions & Answers• Help, I need repairs done! Don’t do them yourself. The law does not guarantee you will be able to recover costs for repairs you do yourself. Notify your landlord of all repairs that need to be made.

• What happens if my landlord refuses to make repairs? Check to see what is written in your rental agreement. You may be able to withhold your rent or terminate your lease, but you should always obtain legal advice before resorting to this option.

• I want to move out! There are explicit consequences detailed in your agreement for breaking your lease. Before you decide to move out, make sure you are willing to deal with these consequences.

• Can my security deposit be put toward my last month’s rent? The purpose of the security deposit is to protect the landlord against damages to the rental. Even though your security deposit may be equal to your last month’s rent, it does not count as such.

• Does the law require interest payments on security deposits? Landlords must hold security deposits in one of three methods: two require interest payments, but the majority of landlords use the one that does not. The landlord is required to inform you in writing how your deposit is being held, where it is held, and whether you will receive interest.

The key to a happy rental experience is a happy landlord. Below, find some useful information for how to develop a positive relationship with your landlord.

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Living in theCommunity

Trash CollectionTrash will not be collected without payment for service. If you live in an apartment complex, commercial dumpster service must be provided by the landlord. The City of Fredericksburg website includes a list of which items are not acceptable for trash collection as well as a schedule for trash pick-up that is broken down by streets of the city. Special Clean-Up Events will be hosted throughout the year for bulk trash and hazardous waste disposal. It is illegal to throw any type of litter (including fliers) or household trash on any street or sidewalk, or on any private property. Violation can result in a minimum $50 fine.

Curbside RecyclingThe Public Works Department provides weekly curbside recycling collection to most residential neighborhoods within the City of Fredericksburg. The service is free and does not require registration. Simply place accepted recyclables in proper containers for collection on the recycling collection day.

Animal ControlAnimal Control Officers enforce the animal laws under the Code of Virginia and the animal ordinances of the City of Fredericksburg. These animals include, but are not limited to: dogs, cats, birds, and feral animals. Officers investigate all animal bite cases, whether domestic or feral. The Department of Public Works is responsible for the disposal of dead animals. Stray animals are delivered to the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter. When an Animal Control Officer is not available, Patrol Officers handle animal-related calls.

When living in a community, respect is crucial. Whether relating to a roommate, landlord, neighbor, police officer, etc., it is important to understand what is expected of you and to always act with courtesy. Check out fredericksburg.gov for the entire listing of local laws and ordinances that you will need to know

while living in the Fredericksburg community.

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PetsFredericksburg has a “leash law” that prohibits owners from letting their dogs run free at any time, outside of the Dog Park. Owners are required to keep dogs under control when walking and to have pets inoculated yearly. Dogs must also have a license, issued yearly for $5.00.

Noise OrdinanceFredericksburg has a noise ordinance that applies to all areas of the city, including the sound generated within an apartment or single property, the amplified stereo sound in automobiles, and the sounds of animals that, by habitually howling, barking, or crying, disturb nearby residents. Anyone who wants to exceed the allowed decibel level must apply for a permit. Violation of the City of Fredericksburg Noise Ordinance will result in a Class 3 Misdemeanor.

City Decal/Parking Permit informationNo decal is required for residential parking within the City of Fredericksburg. A decal will still be available to residents who wish to have the city identification on their cars, and for residents needing to park in areas during restricted hours as indicated by signs stating “No Parking except residents.” Lawn CareThe City of Fredericksburg prohibits: accumulation of rubbish, trash, junk, and other abandoned items on your property, grass/weeds to reach a stage of growth that can provide coverage or harbor for rodents or vermin, or the collection of standing or stagnant water that can act as a breeding ground for mosquitos.

When living in a community, respect is crucial. Whether relating to a roommate, landlord, neighbor, police officer, etc., it is important to understand what is expected of you and to always act with courtesy. Check out fredericksburg.gov for the entire listing of local laws and ordinances that you will need to know

while living in the Fredericksburg community.

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Tenant Rights and ResponsibilitiesTenant Responsibilities

1. Use the rental for residential purposes only.

2. Limit the number of people living in the rental to those written in the lease. This does not mean that the landlord can restrict your right to have visitors on the premises and reasonable overnight guests.

3. Pay rent promptly and in the agreed manner.

4. Keep the rental clean and safe; promptly notify landlord of any damage to the premises; pay for any damage caused by you or your guests. This does not apply to normal wear and tear and maintenance of the property, which are the responsibilities of the landlord.

5. Dispose of all trash and other waste in a clean and safe manner and according to the instructions provided by the landlord.

6. Use electrical, plumbing and heating facilities in a safe and careful manner.

7. Do not destroy, deface, or damage the rental or remove any part of the rental; do not make any alteration to the rental without first getting the landlord’s written consent. If you damage the rental, the landlord can sue you even when notice is not given.

8. Do not keep animals in the rental, unless permitted by the lease (“special animals” for people with disabilities are an exception).

9. Do not change locks to the rental without written permission from the landlord, who must have access to the premises at all times, in case of an emergency.

10. Conduct yourself, and require any person on the premises with your consent to conduct themselves, in a manner that will not disturb the other tenants’ peaceful enjoyment of the property.

11. Report all problems with the rental to the landlord; give notices in writing; keep copies of all written communication with the landlord.

12. Fill out a move-in/move-out checklist; leave the rental clean and in a condition similar to the beginning of the lease.

13. Provide proper written notice of intention to terminate or renew lease and the forwarding address for the return of the security deposit.

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Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Landlord Responsibilities:1. Comply with the requirements of all applicable building and housing codes affecting health and safety.

2. Make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition.

3. Keep all common areas of the rental in a clean and safe condition.

4. Maintain, in good and safe working order and condition, all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, and other facilities and appliances.

5. Provide and maintain appropriate containers for the removal of trash and other waste generated during occupancy of the rental and arrange for their removal in compliance with Fredericksburg code requirements.

6. Supply running water and reasonable amounts of hot water at all times.

7. Ensure a comfortable temperature in the rental, with heat from October through April and air conditioning from May through September.

8. Accomodate for the quiet enjoyment of the property by the tenant, which includes privacy, peace, and quiet use of the property.

9. Notify the tenant of intention to enter the premises for any reasonable purpose (except in the case of an emergency); the following are reasons a landlord may enter the property: regular inspection, to carry out repairs, to show prospective tenants, and during a tenant’s extended absence.

10. Present tenants with a certificate which shows that he or she has the required rental license and that no major code violations are on record.

You may only be evicted if the landlord first presents you with a written notice. Reasons for evictions include: failure

to pay rent, undue damage, disturbing others, overcrowding, impairing safety,

or illegal activity.

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Off Campus Conduct& Adjudication Policy

Philosophy: The conduct of UMW students away from campus has an impact not just on those students involved, but also on UMW peers and on members of the greater Fredericksburg community. Holding students accountable through the judicial system for off campus conduct (resulting in arrest or citation) is a standard process in higher education that results in positive learning outcomes for students and favorable community relationships. UMW’s judicial process is an educational tool to support student learning and is intended to perpetuate life skills and citizenship with accountability.

Jurisdiction: Geographic jurisdiction includes any violation of the UMW Code of Conduct that impacts the educational mission of the University, whether occurring on campus or University-leased or controlled properties, in study abroad programs, at any UMW-related event, in Stafford or Spotsylvania Counties or the City of Fredericksburg. (The University also reserves the right to adjudicate felonies derived from outside of this geographic scope when deemed in the best interest of the University community.) Off Campus Misconduct Violations of civil or criminal law are subject to University adjudication in cases where the interests of the University may be affected (as judged by proper authorities to be the case). Participants in this decision may include the Director of Judicial Affairs and Community Responsibility, Dean of Student Life, and /or the Vice President for Student Affairs (or designee).

The University also has jurisdiction, notwithstanding the location of the offense, to suspend a student on an interim basis (prior to adjudication) for any alleged major violation of state or federal criminal law which the Dean of Student Life, Director of Judicial Affairs and Community Responsibility, or designee finds would jeopardize the safety and security of the campus community. The student shall have the right to appeal the interim suspension, and the appeal will be heard by the Vice President for Student Affairs. For purposes of this section, “major violation” shall mean only felonies or their equivalents and not misdemeanors, traffic violations, or their equivalents.

All students are expected to act with integrity, no matter their location. Students who live off campus should conduct themselves with the same honor

and respect as they do in the classroom.

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Process: UMW will adjudicate off campus violations when the conduct has an equivalent in the Code of Conduct. For example, if a student is arrested or cited for being “drunk in public,” he or she could be charged with violating UMW’s policy related to alcohol intoxication. If a student is charged with public urination, he or she could be charged with violating UMW’s policy related to disorderly conduct. This information will typically come to the University through official police communication. The incident will be adjudicated by an administrator or by the Judicial Review Board (or Student Conduct Hearing Board) as noted in the judicial hearing procedures.

A standard response to off campus conduct may include the following:

1. Off campus incidents involving first offenders may be noted for record-keeping purposes unless the Dean of Student Life (or designee) makes a finding that the alleged violation impacts the safety and security of the campus community. In these cases the University reserves the right to adjudicate the offense.

2. Off campus incidents involving students who previously have been found responsible for any violation on campus, or who have been previously arrested or cited off campus will be adjudicated through the campus judicial system. (This policy does not apply in minor traffic or parking violations.)

Like any community, UMW has expectations about how individuals will conduct themselves (both on & off campus). These community standards are guideposts for acting with integrity at UMW and within your greater Fredericksburg community. Take some time to read through the “Code of Conduct,” learn about the local, state, and federals laws, and please do not hesitate to contact us if you need support or assistance. Success and safety are EVERY Eagle’s business. Judicial Affairs and Community Responsibility Marye House | 540/654-1193

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Staying Connected to Campus

To make the most out of your experience at UMW, you have to get involved. You’ve probably already made some powerful connections while you were living on campus, but now isn’t the time to stop. So go to that study session! Join that club you always wanted to try! Eat that free food on Ball Circle! Being a commuter might put you a little farther from campus, but that doesn’t make you any less a part of this community. Check out the SAE weekly emails or log into your Orgsync account to keep updated on the on campus activities and events that interest you. You can also follow SAE on Twitter @SAEumw.

Commuter Student AssociationLooking for a way to get involved with other commuters? Check out the CSA! This student organization provides an opportunity for students living off campus to express their needs and interests. Come to their monthly meetings to voice your concerns or participate in one of their workshops or fun social events. Want to help plan a commuter event? Contact the CSA president! Call 540/654-1058 for more information.

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Staying Connected to Campus Just because you live off campus doesn’t mean you have to disappear right after class! Make sure you budget some time for some on campus fun as well.

A Note on Parking: Remember, as a commuter student, you MUST get a commuter parking sticker if you

plan on commuting to campus by car. Check out the campus map to see which lots are available

to commuters. (You are not permitted to park in the surrounding neighborhoods... You

will get ticketed!) And remember: you may not always get the parking spot you want. Budget extra time in the morning when driving to class for days when your parking options are limited.

Office of Commuter Student ServicesHaving trouble with your off campus experience? Have any questions or concerns relating to your status as

a commuter student? The Office of Commuter Student Services is here

for you! Commuter Student Services is committed to helping those who live

off campus have a successful experience at UMW. Contact us at 540/654-1058 or drop

by our office at Marye House (between Trinkle and Mason Halls). Check out our website:

students.umw.edu/commuters, don’t forget to join our Facebook Group (UMW Commuter Student Services),

and follow us on Twitter @UMWCommuters.

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Moving OutChecklist

�Make sure you know when your lease ends and what date you must renew if you decide to stay. If you do not renew your lease by the deadline, the landlord may rent your rental to someone else.

�Ask what is required of you upon leaving the rental. Many landlords require tenants to clean the rental before vacating; this may even include deep clean measures, such as carpet cleaning and flea removal.

�Prepare early by cleaning, gathering moving supplies, and packing seasonal, infrequently used items.

�Gather items you will need for move-out: boxes, packing material (newspaper or plastic wrap), tape, blankets, plastic bins, a dolly, cleaning supplies, a vacuum, a steam cleaner, spackle

�Reserve a vehicle in advance if you decide to rent a moving truck.

�Check around for the best price and quality service if you decide to hire a moving company. Ask friends or family, and check references at the Better Business Bureau website www.bbb.org.

�Invite friends or family to help!

�Ask your landlord to complete a walkthrough with you. Discuss any damages or issues they might have with returning your deposit. Try to plan this walkthrough for a day or two before you are expected to vacate the rental. This gives you time to fix damages.

�Clean completely and thoroughly. Follow your landlord’s checklist and keep all receipts for cleaning supplies and steam cleaner rentals as evidence. Take pictures or a video of your empty rental when you have moved all your belongings out.

You think moving out is easy, but in the hustle and bustle of packing, there’s a lot that can be forgotten. You’ll want to start preparing for your departure early and be sure to notify your landlord of your

intentions to leave. See below for tips on how to ensure a smooth move-out.

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�Complete a move-out check-list and make sure the landlord signs and dates it. Use an impartial witness if the landlord is not available or refuses your request for a walkthrough.

�Make sure your landlord has your new mailing address and phone number in case they have questions.

�Ask your landlord for the specific date you will receive your security deposit back. A landlord has 15 days after termination of the lease to return the security deposit or send a notice by certified mail stating how much is going to be deducted from the deposit and why. You must object to the deduction in writing within 15 days of your receipt of the notice or the deductions are authorized. If the notice is not postmarked within 15 days, the landlord forfeits the security deposit.

You think moving out is easy, but in the hustle and bustle of packing, there’s a lot that can be forgotten. You’ll want to start preparing for your departure early and be sure to notify your landlord of your

intentions to leave. See below for tips on how to ensure a smooth move-out.

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Office of Residence Life &Commuter Student Services1301 College AveFredericksburg, VA 22401540/654-1058students.umw.edu/commuters

Follow us on Twitter @UMWCommutersJoin us on Facebook @UMW Commuter Student Services