Guide to Community Living

Welcome to Community Living

Living in a residential community means sharing space, resources and experiences with others who may have different backgrounds, routines and perspectives. Community living is built on mutual respect, open communication and consideration for how individual actions affect those around you, ensuring every resident has the opportunity to feel safe, comfortable and supported in their living environment.

Being part of a residential community also means balancing personal independence with shared responsibility. Residents are expected to contribute to a positive community by respecting shared spaces, communicating openly with roommates and neighbors and following established policies. When concerns arise, addressing them early and seeking support from residence hall staff can help resolve issues before they grow.

Through daily interactions and shared experiences, residential living provides opportunities to build meaningful relationships, strengthen communication skills and navigate conflict in healthy and productive ways. These experiences are an important part of your overall college journey.

A positive residential experience depends on the collective efforts of every community member. Community standards are designed to promote safety, fairness and respect while helping create welcoming residence halls where everyone can thrive.

When community standards are not met, Residence Life & Housing staff work with residents to address concerns and provide education and accountability. These processes are designed to encourage learning, reflection and growth while maintaining the well-being of the community.

The Community Living Guide is a comprehensive resource designed to support you from move-in through move-out. It outlines expectations, resources and policies related to residential life and provides practical guidance for common situations you may encounter while living on campus. For a full list of our policies, please refer to our Residence Hall Regulations

Use this guide to:

• Understand your rights and responsibilities as a resident.
• Learn how to navigate shared living spaces and community expectations.
• Find information about safety, wellness and support resources.
• Access policy summaries and links to official University regulations.

We encourage you to review this guide early in the semester and refer back to it as needed. While this guide provides helpful information and context, official University policies govern residential living and may be updated as needed. Residence Life & Housing staff are always available to answer questions, provide clarification or help you navigate any concerns that arise.

Sustainable Living Starts with You

Creating a positive residential experience also means making thoughtful choices that support your community and the environment. Small, everyday decisions can reduce waste, conserve resources and help keep residence halls clean, organized and sustainable. As you prepare to move in and settle into your new home, consider the following tips:

Pack with Purpose

• Bring only what you need to reduce waste and clutter in shared living spaces.
• Choose reusable items such as water bottles, coffee mugs, storage containers and shopping bags.
• Avoid single-use or disposable items when possible.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

• If bringing a personal refrigerator, select an energy-efficient model to help reduce electricity usage.
• Limit the number of personal appliances you bring and share items with roommates when appropriate.
• Unplug electronics and chargers when not in use to conserve energy.

Think About Materials

• Use LED light bulbs and energy-efficient lighting.
• Choose durable, reusable storage solutions rather than disposable or low-quality items.
• Opt for bedding, towels and décor made from sustainable or recycled materials when available.

Plan for Recycling & Waste Reduction

• Familiarize yourself with campus recycling guidelines before move-in.
• Label personal food containers to reduce unnecessary food waste.

Sustainable Transportation

• Plan how you will store bicycles or other mobility devices responsibly within Residence Hall Guidelines.

Water Conservation

• Bring items that support water conservation, such as quick-dry towels and reusable cleaning cloths.
• Be mindful of water usage in shared bathrooms and kitchens.

Small, intentional choices before you arrive can make a meaningful difference throughout the year. By planning ahead and embracing sustainable habits, you help support a healthier living environment and contribute to the University’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.

Abandoned Laundry

Residents are responsible for promptly removing their laundry once a wash or dry cycle has ended. Leaving laundry unattended for extended periods may prevent other residents from accessing laundry facilities.

Abandoned laundry is clothing, linens or other washable items left unattended in a residence hall laundry room after a washer or dryer cycle has ended and determined by Residence Life staff to have been left behind.

What Happens to Abandoned Laundry?

• Abandoned laundry is collected on a weekly basis by Residence Life staff.
• Items are placed in a bag, labeled with the date of collection and securely stored.
• Laundry will be held for 30 days to allow residents time to claim their belongings.
• After 30 days, any unclaimed clothing or linens will be donated through the University's designated donation or sustainability partner.

Claiming Your Laundry

If you believe your laundry has been collected:

• Contact your Resident Assistant (RA) or Residence Hall Coordinator (RHC).
• Provide a description of your belongings so staff can locate your bag.
• Unclaimed items will only be held for 30 days from the date they were collected.

Important Information

• Residence Life is not responsible for clothing or personal belongings left unattended in laundry rooms.
• Residents are encouraged to set timers or reminders to retrieve laundry promptly after each cycle.
• Valuable items, including wallets, identification cards, electronics, medications or keys, should never be left in clothing or laundry bags.
• Residents who repeatedly leave laundry unattended may be contacted by Residence Life staff if the behavior creates ongoing concerns for the community.

This process is intended to promote a clean, accessible and respectful shared living environment while reducing unnecessary waste through the donation of unclaimed items.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Living Space

Your residence hall room is your home while you're on campus and how you set it up plays an important role in maintaining a safe and functional living environment. The following guidelines outline expectations for room furnishings, decorations, electrical equipment and other items to help protect residents, preserve University property and support the safety of the residential community.

Bed Risers

Students are permitted to utilize products frequently referred to as bed risers or furniture lifts which fit under the feet of the bed.

• These are only permitted under an individual bed, not under bunked beds.
• Most of these products are under 8 inches tall which provide the extra space desired for storage.
• When using bed risers, the top of the mattress height from the ground cannot exceed 5 feet.

Bed Lofting and Bunking Policy

For safety reasons, lofting beds is strictly prohibited in all residence halls. Residents may not elevate or modify their beds beyond the approved configurations provided by the University as noted above.

Residence Life & Housing recommends that students/families submit a FixIt request to bunk or debunk beds. Facilities staff will complete these requests in the order they are received, and response times may be longer during move-in periods due to high demand.

Please note that all furniture must remain in the room.

Candles, Incense and Fragrance Devices

The possession or use of candles, incense, electric candle warmers or plug-in fragrance devices (including, but not limited to, Wallflowers and similar products) is strictly prohibited in all residence halls, regardless of whether they are lit, unlit or plugged in. These items pose potential fire and safety hazards and are not permitted within student rooms or common areas.

The active use of lighters, matches or any other open flame ignition devices are prohibited in any residence hall. For more information, refer to the Fire Safety section of this guide.

Students who wish to use candles or incense for religious purposes may submit a Religious Use Request Form through Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). The form must be reviewed and signed by the student’s Residence Hall Coordinator (RHC) or Apartment Coordinator (AC) prior to submission to EHS for approval.

Any prohibited items found are subject to confiscation by Residence Life & Housing Staff. Confiscated items may or may not be returned to the resident and may be disposed of at the University’s discretion. Residents found in possession of such items may also be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and Residence Hall Regulation Policies.

Decorations

To preserve the condition of residence hall spaces and prevent facility damage, all residents must follow the guidelines below when decorating their rooms or common areas. Any violation of this policy may result in damage billing and conduct action.

General Decoration Restrictions

• No decorations may be attached to ceilings, sprinkler heads, smoke detectors, emergency lights, exit signs or fire safety equipment.
• Decorations must not block windows, vents or doors and must not interfere with visibility or egress.
• Residents may not paint, wallpaper or apply adhesives, decals or coverings to any university surface that could cause damage upon removal.
• Accessories are not permitted to be attached to walls with anything larger than a thumbtack.

Permitted Decorating Options

• Freestanding décor and furniture that does not alter or contact the wall surface
• Corkboards, whiteboards, chalkboards, photos or posters displayed using painter’s tape or other non-damaging, fully removable methods inside residential room (residents are responsible for ensuring the product does not cause damage)
• Residents in our spaces may use command strips, painter’s tape and wall putty as approved methods for wall mounting.
  

Residents are responsible  for any damage to walls, ceilings, furniture or fixtures in their assigned space. When in doubt about whether a decoration is permitted, contact Residence Life & Housing before installation. University staff may direct students to remove any decorations deemed to be contributing to creating an unhealthy and/or unsafe environment.

Power Strips

To maintain a safe electrical environment in the residence halls, students must follow the guidelines below when using power strips and electrical devices. Failure to comply may result in confiscation of the item and documentation by Residence Hall Staff.

Approved Power Strip Use

• Power strips with an internal circuit breaker which display the approval label of Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL) are the only allowable extensions of outlets.
• Power strips must be used only in dry, open areas and kept clear of obstructions.

Prohibited Conditions and Safety Hazards

• Power strips with cracked or exposed wires, burn marks, loose connections or any other signs of damage present a safety hazard. These items may not be used and will result in RHR documentation if found in the residence hall.
• Damaged or unsafe power strips must be removed from use immediately.
• Power strips that are not approved by Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL).
• Extension cords are not permitted.

Required Safety Practices

• Unplug all power strips when leaving the room for five or more days.
• Do not connect power strips to one another (“daisy-chaining”).
• Do not use power strips in bathrooms.
• Do not staple and tack power strips to the floor, walls or ceiling.
• Do not cover power strips or cords with carpeting, furniture, clothing or any material that restricts air circulation.

Residents are responsible for ensuring that all electrical devices meet safety standards and are used in accordance with this policy. For questions about approved electrical equipment, contact Residence Life & Housing.

Your Residential Community

Our Residence Life & Housing team aims to create a safe, inclusive, engaging and supportive residential experience for all students. Throughout the academic year, multiple staff members work together to support residents, maintain community standards and provide resources to help students succeed both personally and academically.

Student Staff (Resident Assistants and Apartment Assistants)

Resident Assistants (RAs) and Apartment Assistants (AAs) are trained student leaders who live within the residential communities they support. These staff members serve as peer resources, community builders and first points of contact for residents.

RAs and AAs are responsible for:

• Building inclusive and welcoming communities
• Hosting programs and engagement opportunities
• Supporting residents through challenges and transitions
• Addressing policy concerns and documenting incidents when necessary
• Sharing campus resources and support services
• Serving in an on-call duty rotation to respond to community concerns and emergencies

Student staff are here to help residents navigate their residential experience and encourage meaningful connections within the community.

Professional Staff (Apartment and Residence Hall Coordinators)

Apartment Coordinators (ACs) and Residence Hall Coordinators (RHCs) are full-time professional staff members who oversee the daily operations of residential communities and supervise student staff teams.

Professional staff responsibilities include:

• Supervising and training student staff
• Supporting resident wellbeing and student success
• Managing community concerns and conflict resolution
• Responding to emergencies and crisis situations
• Coordinating building operations and administrative processes
• Partnering with campus offices and support resources

Professional staff members are available to support residents throughout the year and help ensure communities remain safe, respectful and conducive to learning.

Main Office Organizational Chart

The Main Office, located in Gilbert Hall Suites 112 and 116, serves as a central resource for residents and residential communities. The Main Office team supports the daily operations of the residential experience and assists residents with a variety of housing-related needs and questions.

The Main Office team assists with:

• Housing operations and administrative processes
• Resident support and general questions
• Facilities and maintenance concerns
• Communication with campus partners and resources
• General guidance related to residential living

Residents are encouraged to contact or visit the Main Office whenever they need assistance, support or additional information related to their residential experience.

Community Development & Engagement Opportunities

Residence Life & Housing offers a variety of opportunities for residents to connect with others, build relationships and engage with their community. Throughout the year, residents can participate in:

• Community events and social programs
• Educational and wellness initiatives
• Leadership opportunities
• Hall traditions and campus-wide experiences
• Diversity, inclusion and belonging focused programs

These experiences are designed to help residents build community, develop new skills and create meaningful connections during their time on campus.

Getting Involved in Your Hall

Getting involved is one of the best ways to enhance your residential experience. Residents are encouraged to attend programs, participate in hall activities, connect with peers and engage with their residential community.

Ways to get involved may include:

• Attending community programs and events
• Applying for a Student Staff Position with Residence Life & Housing
• Participating in campus traditions and activities
• Connecting with student organizations
• Collaborating with staff on community initiatives

Students who actively engage in their residential community often report stronger connections, greater personal growth and a more positive college experience overall.

Living with Roommates

Living in a residential community requires mutual respect, communication, accountability and consideration for others. All residents are entitled to certain fundamental rights within their assigned living space and are equally responsible for upholding and respecting those same rights for their roommate(s), suitemates, guests, neighbors and community members.

Residents are expected to contribute positively to their community by maintaining an environment that supports personal wellbeing, academic success, safety and inclusion.

Residents have the right to:

• Study and sleep in their room without undue interference or excessive disruption.
• Have personal belongings respected and free from misuse, damage or theft.
• Maintain a reasonably clean, safe and healthy living environment.
• Secure their room protecting personal/property security when appropriate.
• Live free from intimidation, harassment, discrimination, retaliation and physical or emotional harm.
• Expect compliance with all University policies and Residence Life & Housing expectations as outlined in the current Code of Conduct and Guide to Community Living.
• Maintain reasonable privacy and uninterrupted access to their living space.
• Have agreed-upon living expectations honored, including expectations established through roommate agreements and intentional conversations.

Residents are also responsible for ensuring that their actions, behaviors, guests and decisions do not negatively impact the rights, wellbeing or comfort of others within the community.

Communication in a Shared Living Space

Open, respectful and proactive communication is an essential part of successful community living. Residents are encouraged to address concerns early, communicate directly and respectfully and work collaboratively to resolve disagreements before issues escalate.

Conflicts may arise in shared living environments, but differences in lifestyles, schedules, habits or expectations should be addressed through constructive conversation and mutual understanding whenever possible.

Residence Life & Housing staff members are available to assist residents in navigating difficult conversations, resolving conflicts and identifying solutions that support healthy community living.

Roommate/Suitemate Agreements

Residents sharing a room or apartment are encouraged to participate in intentional conversations regarding shared living expectations early in the semester and throughout the year as needed. These conversations may include topics such as:

• Sleep schedules and quiet hours
• Guests and visitation expectations
• Cleaning responsibilities and shared space upkeep
• Study habits and noise preferences
• Shared belongings and boundaries
• Communication styles and conflict resolution preferences

Roommate agreements are intended to help establish clear expectations, encourage accountability and reduce misunderstandings within shared spaces.

Guests and Shared Space Expectations

Residents are responsible for communicating with roommates, apartment mates and/or suitemates regarding guest (any person not assigned to the space) visitation and shared space usage. Guests should never infringe upon another resident's ability to access their room, maintain privacy, study, sleep or feel comfortable within their living environment.

Overnight guests may stay for a maximum of three (3) consecutive nights within any seven (7)-day period. Extended or repeated guest stays that exceed this limit are not permitted.

All guest visitation must comply with University policies and Residence Life & Housing expectations. Residents are responsible for the behavior of their guests at all times.

Mutual respect, communication and consideration should guide all decisions related to guests and shared spaces.

Guest and Visitations Permitted Exception:

Services that are approved and/or contracted by Residence Life & Housing are permitted, including those offered through a Residence Life & Housing contract for student use (e.g., approved move-in or move-out services). Such vendors may only access residence halls in accordance with Residence Life & Housing procedures and with appropriate staff oversight or authorization.

Prohibited Guests and Services

Contracted or paid services, including but not limited to cleaning services, general contractors, surveyors or similar vendors, are not permitted in campus residence halls at the request or employment of a student.

What to Do If Issues Arise with Room/Suitemates

If concerns arise within a residential community, residents are encouraged to first attempt respectful and direct communication when appropriate and safe to do so. If additional support is needed, residents should contact their RA, AA or professional staff member for assistance.

Residence Life & Housing may intervene when community expectations or roommate rights are not being respected. Interventions may include:

• Informal staff support or facilitated conversations
• Roommate mediation
• Behavioral agreements or expectation clarification
• Modification of housing arrangements
• Reassignment to a different living space
• Disciplinary action in accordance with University and Residence Life & Housing policies

Our goal is to support residents in developing healthy communication skills, navigating shared living environments successfully and contributing positively to the residential community.

Facilities and Your Living Space

Your residence hall room is more than just a place to sleep—it is your home while living on campus. Maintaining your living space helps support personal wellbeing, community health and the overall condition of the residence halls. Residents share responsibility for caring for their room, reporting concerns and using university facilities appropriately.

Room Care and Maintenance Expectations

Maintaining a clean and organized living space contributes to a positive residential experience for both you and your roommates. Residents are expected to care for their assigned space, dispose of waste appropriately and address cleanliness concerns before they become larger issues. Regular cleaning and organization help create a comfortable environment while also reducing the likelihood of facility damage or pest concerns.

Work Orders and Maintenance Requests

Residence Life & Housing works closely with Facilities to maintain residential communities throughout the year. When maintenance concerns arise, residents should submit a FixIt Request as soon as possible. Whether the concern is major or minor prompt reporting allows staff to address concerns efficiently and helps prevent small issues from becoming larger problems. Students making these submissions helps ensure that repairs are made in a timely fashion.

Furniture Use and Alterations

University-provided furniture is intended to support residents throughout their time in housing and should remain in the assigned room unless otherwise approved. Residents may not modify, paint, disassemble or otherwise alter university furniture. Residents are responsible for the condition of university furnishings within their assigned space and may be held accountable for damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Temperature Control and Ventilation

Maintaining proper airflow and ventilation is an important part of creating a comfortable living environment. Heating and cooling systems vary between residential communities and may operate seasonally. Residents should keep vents unobstructed, avoid blocking heating and cooling equipment and report temperature concerns through the Fixit form process. Proper ventilation supports both resident comfort and the efficient operation of building systems.

Students are not permitted to use a window unit, standing air conditioner or dehumidifier in the residence halls.

Pest Prevention & Reporting

Preventing pests is a shared community responsibility. Simple habits such as storing food properly, regularly disposing of trash and maintaining a clean living environment can significantly reduce the likelihood of pest concerns. Residents who observe signs of pests should report them promptly so that Facilities staff can respond appropriately and prevent concerns from affecting additional residents. Residents must not use commercially available pesticides as these interfere with the approved pesticides used by the university’s Pest Management team.

Appliances, Kitchens and Food Storage

Residence halls include a variety of spaces and resources designed to support daily living, including shared kitchen facilities. Residents are expected to use these resources responsibly and help maintain safe, clean and respectful environments for all community members. Students are not permitted to store their personal items in the kitchen spaces.

Approved Appliances and Electrical Safety

Electrical safety is an important component of residential living. Residents are responsible for ensuring that all appliances brought into the residence halls comply with university guidelines and are used according to manufacturer recommendations.

Using approved appliances and following electrical safety expectations helps reduce fire risks and contributes to the safety of both individual residents and the broader community. Residents with questions about whether an appliance is permitted should contact Residence Life & Housing before bringing the item into their residential space.

Refrigerators and Microwaves

Refrigerators and microwaves are among the most commonly used appliances in residential communities. Residents who choose to bring these items are responsible for maintaining them in a clean and sanitary condition throughout the academic year.

Regularly removing expired food, cleaning appliance surfaces and ensuring adequate ventilation around appliances can help prevent odors, sanitation concerns and unnecessary maintenance issues. Responsible appliance use contributes to a healthier and more comfortable living environment for everyone sharing the space.

Communal Kitchen Use and Cleanliness

Community kitchens provide residents with opportunities to prepare meals, build connections and utilize shared resources within their residential community. Because these spaces are shared, all residents are expected to use them respectfully and responsibly.

Residents should clean kitchen surfaces after use, properly dispose of food waste and remove personal belongings when finished. Leaving shared spaces in the same or better condition than they were found helps ensure kitchens remain welcoming and accessible for all residents.

Food Storage Guidelines

Proper food storage supports community health, helps prevent pests and contributes to the cleanliness of residential spaces. Residents are encouraged to store food appropriately, monitor expiration dates and promptly remove spoiled or unwanted items.

Items left behind after designated clean-out periods may be discarded as part of building maintenance efforts and health and safety procedures.

Safety and Security

Creating a safe residential community requires partnership between residents, Residence Life & Housing staff, University Police and other campus partners. Every resident plays an important role in maintaining a secure, respectful and supportive living environment.

Community Safety Philosophy

Community safety is a shared responsibility. Every resident contributes to the overall wellbeing of the residential community through their decisions, actions and willingness to support others when concerns arise.

Safe communities are built when residents:

• Look out for one another
• Report concerns promptly
• Follow university policies and procedures
• Seek assistance when needed
• Contribute to a respectful and welcoming environment

By working together, residents help create communities where individuals feel safe, supported and connected.

Building Access and Security Measures

Residence halls utilize a variety of security measures designed to support resident safety and limit unauthorized access to residential facilities. These measures are most effective when residents actively participate in maintaining building security.

Residents are encouraged to carry their student identification card, secure their room when leaving and avoid providing access to individuals they do not know. Lost keys, access concerns or security-related issues should be reported promptly to Residence Life & Housing staff so appropriate action can be taken.

Maintaining building security helps protect both residents and community spaces.

Cameras and Recording Devices

The use, installation or operation of personal surveillance, monitoring or recording devices—including but not limited to Ring cameras, security cameras, nanny cams, smart doorbells, audio recorders or similar devices capable of capturing video, images or audio for the purpose of monitoring individuals or spaces—is prohibited in residential facilities.

Permitted Exceptions

• Cameras or recording devices installed and managed by the university for safety and security purposes.
• Temporary use of cameras or recording devices as part of an approved academic accommodation or university-approved project with written authorization.

Concerns regarding privacy violations or the inappropriate use of recording devices should be reported promptly to Residence Life & Housing staff or University Police.

Emergency Procedures and Evacuation

Residents should familiarize themselves with emergency procedures and evacuation routes within their residential community. Understanding what to do before an emergency occurs can help support a more effective response when needed.

In emergency situations, residents should follow instructions provided by university officials, emergency personnel and Residence Life & Housing staff. This may include evacuating a building, proceeding to a designated assembly location or following other emergency response procedures.

Fire Safety

Fire safety policies exist to protect residents, staff and facilities. Residents are expected to comply with all fire safety regulations and avoid behaviors that may create unnecessary risk within residential communities.

Residents should report damaged fire safety equipment, maintain clear pathways to exits and immediately evacuate when a fire alarm sounds. Fire alarms should always be treated as real emergencies unless directed otherwise by emergency personnel.

Residents should immediately report any damaged, missing or malfunctioning fire safety equipment to Facilities by submitting a FixIt Request or by calling (302) 831-1141. Prompt reporting helps maintain a safe living environment for all.

Severe Weather and Emergency Alerts

The University utilizes multiple communication methods such as Live Safe and UDPD alerts to share information during severe weather events, emergencies and other situations that may impact campus operations.

Residents are encouraged to review emergency preparedness information, maintain current contact information and monitor official university communications when severe weather or emergency situations occur. Following instructions provided through university communication systems helps ensure residents receive accurate and timely information.

Personal Safety Tips

While no set of precautions can eliminate all risks, residents can take steps to support their personal safety and wellbeing throughout the academic year.

Residents are encouraged to secure personal belongings, lock their room when leaving, remain aware of their surroundings and seek assistance whenever concerns arise. Trusting your instincts and utilizing available campus resources can help promote both personal safety and peace of mind.

Residence Life & Housing staff, University Police and campus support resources are available to assist residents and help address concerns whenever they occur.

Health, Wellness and Support

Physical and Mental Health Resources

Student Health Services
Laurel Hall, 282 The Green
30-831-2226

Counseling and Support Services

Center for Counseling and Student Development
305 Warner Hall, 280 The Green
302-831-2141

Accessibility and Accommodations

Disability Support Services
Allison Hall, Suite 130, 240 Academy Street
302-831-4643

Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

To qualify for an ESA in housing, a student must receive written approval from DSS prior to the animal's entering housing.

Students may not bring an ESA into residential facilities without prior approval. Failure to obtain approval may result in policy action and removal of the animal.

Students approved for an ESA are fully responsible for the animal’s care, supervision, behavior and any damages caused.

All ESA requests must be submitted to DSS and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For information regarding the request process, students should contact DSS at dssoffice@udel.edu.

Conflict Resolution and Reporting

Living in a residential community means interacting with individuals who may have different backgrounds, communication styles, lifestyles and expectations. While disagreements and conflicts may occur, Residence Life & Housing encourages residents to approach concerns with respect, accountability and a willingness to communicate constructively.

Whenever possible, residents are encouraged to address concerns early before situations escalate. Open communication and proactive problem-solving are often the most effective ways to maintain a positive and healthy living environment.

Addressing Concerns Informally

Many community concerns can be resolved through respectful, direct and honest communication between residents. When appropriate and safe to do so, residents are encouraged to discuss concerns calmly and collaboratively with the individual(s) involved.

Examples of concerns that may often be resolved through discussion directly with other residents involved:

• Noise concerns
• Shared space cleanliness
• Guest expectations
• Study and sleep disruptions
• Communication misunderstandings
• Shared living preferences and boundaries

When addressing concerns, residents are encouraged to:

• Communicate directly and respectfully
• Focus on behaviors rather than personal attack
• Listen actively and remain open to compromise
• Address concerns early rather than allowing frustration to build
• Approach conversations with the goal of resolution and mutual understanding

Intentional communication and mutual respect are essential components of successful community living.

When to Involve Student or Professional Staff

Residents are encouraged to seek support from their RA, AA or professional staff member when:

• Attempts to resolve concerns independently have been unsuccessful
• A conflict begins negatively impacting wellbeing, safety or academic success
• Residents are uncomfortable addressing concerns directly on their own
• Repeated behavior continues despite prior conversations
• Additional guidance, mediation or support is needed

Residence Life & Housing staff members are trained to assist with conflict resolution, facilitate conversations, provide support resources and help residents navigate challenging situations within the community.

Staff intervention may include:

• Informal conversations and support
• Facilitated roommate or community mediation
• Clarification of community expectations or policies
• Documentation of ongoing concerns when appropriate

Reporting Policy Violations or Safety Concerns

Residents share responsibility for helping maintain a safe and respectful residential community. Concerns involving safety risks, policy violations, harassment, discrimination, threatening behavior or other significant community concerns should be reported to Residence Life & Housing staff promptly.

Examples of concerns that should be reported include:

• Threatening or concerning behavior
• Harassment, discrimination or retaliation
• Physical altercations or safety concerns
• Alcohol or drug policy violations
• Vandalism, theft or property damage
• Repeated or significant disruption to the community
• Mental health or wellbeing concerns involving a resident
• Emergency situations requiring immediate intervention

Residents may report concerns to:

• An RA or AA
• An Apartment Coordinator or Residence Hall Coordinator
• The Main Office
• University Police or emergency services in emergency situations

Residence Life & Housing staff will review concerns, provide appropriate support and determine necessary follow-up actions in accordance with University policies and procedures.

Communication and Information

Residence Life & Housing utilizes multiple communication methods to share important information.

Official communication from Residence Life & Housing is commonly shared through:

• University email communication
• Housing portals
• Residence hall community newsletters from Apartment Coordinators and Residence Hall Coordinators
• Communication and outreach from Main Office staff
• Community and informational bulletin boards throughout residential communities
• Communication and outreach from Resident Assistants (RAs) and Apartment Assistants (AAs)

Residents are strongly encouraged to regularly check their University email accounts and review community communications to remain informed about important updates, expectations, deadlines and opportunities within their residential community.

Bulletin boards and community postings may include:

• Upcoming events and engagement opportunities
• Community expectations and reminders
• Campus resources and support services
• Safety information
• Operational updates and important announcements

Emergency Notifications

In emergency situations, the University utilizes LiveSafe to communicate urgent information with students and community members.

Emergency notifications may be sent via:

• Text message
• University email
• Mobile application notifications

Residents are strongly encouraged to ensure their contact information and notification settings remain up to date to receive emergency communications in a timely manner.

Important Contacts & Resources

Residence Life & Housing Contact Information
Eliphalet Gilbert Hall, 310 Haines Street, Suite 112, Newark, DE 19716
reslife-housing@udel.edu
302-831-4663

Emergency and After-Hours Support

The University of Delaware Department of Residence Life & Housing maintains an on-call duty system to provide support to residential students outside of normal operating hours. On-call coverage is available daily from 7 p.m.–7:00 a.m., during which students should contact their designated on-call staff member. Incidents requiring additional support, guidance or intervention are escalated to a professional staff member on call. As always, in case of emergency, contact UDPD by dialing 302-831-2222 or 911.

University of Delaware Police Department (UDPD)
413 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716
302-831-2222 (non-emergency number)