Off-Campus Living Guide
Transcription
Off-Campus Living Guide
welcome to clemson ! If you are considering the move from campus life into suburbia, or if you are simply interested in what the Clemson community has to offer - then this publication is for you. Living on your own for the first time can be overwhelming and expensive if you are not careful. The JCUAB, or Joint City-University Advisory Board encourages you to do a little research and "educate before it's too late." This publication is Clemson's first Off-Campus Living Guide and is packed full of great contacts, things to consider, and suggestions for first-time renters or home owners. Be sure to read through the guide and utilize the worksheets provided for budgeting and apartment shopping. Hopefully, this guide will be your handbook through one of the most exciting times in life. Don't forget to educate yourself - be safe, be smart and enjoy your time in Clemson, South Carolina. rs! go tige Brought to you by: The City of Clemson’s Joint City University Advisory Board 1 KM Twelve Mil te e Trl nS e Park Rd so em Cl t Legend n ilso nL Be tts W Av e Dr r s on Charles on Rd al Bogg s St Poole Ln D Rd Oak Ter adley St Br Lee St Court r y Rd her ey Ln Jers Rd Dunavan Rd o n Cir Fin S ley Fo t yC Dr reek She r St man Dr Calhoun il l s Be Lau M r el L n Dr ount Dr rel Lau ain Vista Ter Carrie Ln Dr ee ass Tam Satula L n Rd rry dC Ol he o ld wi illo w t en tr Es s ex Dr College Ave ns S Picke Kno x Rd ode Ci r Coll ege Ave Beta Gamma Ct Fernow St La m bda St Kapp a St C e nter Rd D e lta S Seasons D r Madr en yS t ore Fo Pine St Sloan St lg e r St y ke y Track Rd r nt D kefr o Lak esid e U H oliday Ave Walnut St Houston St Rd Oak St D r na D Ma ri ca Fordd s La Coll ege S t Dr d er R Hell kR d Cre e Se ne ca ne r a g oo att C h Ln Ridge Stone Church Rd cre Se Dr Ln ook ntbr Ln den uie G Lo Newman Rd amda St Jp Stevens Rd te us lan St F ort Rutledge Rd od r r ng D Fr e G n ee Gr r Short sse Tama e ewis EL e oke Ch er Rd Dr Kite T rl eD hts W Lewis Rd o Popla r stw eig Theta Kappa S t ill D dH lar eH Ea t M d an R Mill K c M app aL Clemson University (see back) Clem ac Dil Old Greenville Hwy Morrison St y Wa C Cr gsid n St W Quee well Rd pe Ho Dr Ln rnin Evening Shade Lo uie Mo m Rd cutt Ln Hunni h Rd Dr C ar Cherry Rd Shilo 3 D ek d iu L d W ay Perimeter Rd Taylor St Lake Hartwell le Wood Barr e St Dr Cir 76 Walker Golf Course St a La k e D r Fe e Ri che ll A v Huntter S SeGro rvi und ce Dr t St on l Dr Bryan ns Collit S t aS tto Blvd Old mm Ga ld S tati Dr C L E M S O N U N I V E R S I T Y nie Parkway D gs g Wyatt Ave Da r upree l e St Ga Pl e S B r Mit inty Mc g Ct Rd Fie s Dr M a r t in d on R r ete Baldw i n Rd C ams rim alme P oole Ln P almetto Blvd Fort Hill St SP St r N Willi Press Rd Goo Ln de Keith St Earle St Banks St Pinn acle St Reidd 7 C re P Klugh Ave ons Champi Pe r se ws Md Heisman St Blvd Avenue Of D Je Ravenel Rd Clemso n St y Hw ille Centenni al Ol nv ree dG Do Dr g woo d Hedgerow Ln son Ave N C l e mrgan Hil Da Ln Avlcer e s t 48 City Hall Clemson Police Dept. Stone y g Cir YM C A Sunset Ave Ln 93 Coc hran Rd fo rd Crawt C Calho un St R ig e r Rd St t Jaycee Dr ide Geo rg e ek s t reeksid e Dr ow Lindsayy R d Calhoun Wall S st Park CreCir Edge wood Ave n ingto W ig St Hug o D r go CAROLINA w v ie SOUTH cre Sh n Elm CAROLINA 28 Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park Locust St yn eL CrCe dC Ol Trl a M illiken Rd Mil like nR d SOUTH we e Keo ec ve iel A an lace Cir niversity Pl Dr st en 76 123 ay E Holied Av Holiday W Ave ir r iew nV t m d Blv Pa son P oin 6 Win Ct ches te t ai Clem r un od D erp Riv r D Cl e t He Lake Ct Mo Ln Hazelwo A i l e en ry ber Ln aw Str to S c e Rd e nd Tiger Blvd son Lawr en CAROLINA 133 H arts Ridg e Rd ir SOUTH r Ha Jac o bs Kipp Ln Fern C Mountain View Park W City Hall....................................... Clemson University................ Golf Course................................ Hotel Locations........................ 1 Parks............................................. Police Department.................. 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All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced by any means without the written permission of the Publisher. All requests may be submitted to the Joint City-University Advisory Board: 1250 Tiger Blvd Attn: JCUAB Clemson, SC 29631 Published in conjunction with the CITY OF CLEMSON and CLEMSON UNIVERSITY. Content Compiled by: Jimmy Dixon, Karon Donald, Shanon Langlie, Michelle Godfrey, Sharon Richardson, Steve Robbins Design by: Jessica Thompson, Clemson University Graphic Communications 2012 Note to reader: While every effort is made to ensure that all information in this guide is correct and current, the JCUAB accepts no liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential losses howsoever caused so far as such can be excluded by law. I. Considering a Move Off-Campus? 1. Location..................................2 2.Consider the Cost...................3 3.Amenities................................5 4.City Codes/Rental Housing...7 5. Choosing a Roommate...........9 6.Lease Agreement....................10 II. Making the Move 7.Document the Condition.......11 8.Getting Connected.................14 9. City Services...........................17 10. Building a Community...........21 11. Holding a Party......................23 III. Important Contacts 12. Online Resources..................29 13. Help!......................................30 Introduction: The Joint City/University Advisory Board (a partnership of the City of Clemson and Clemson University) would like to welcome you into the community’s first OffCampus Living Guide. If you are considering the move from campus life to suburbia or if you are simply interested in what our community has to offer - then this publication is for you. The goal is to “Educate before it is Too Late,” meaning we in no way, encourage or discourage the move. We simply hope that you will do your homework! Do your research. Clemson is a great place to live - with over ten thousand full time residents, Clemson University campus, Lake Hartwell, and the Blue Ridge Foothills to name a few, you may find this town/gown partnership too irresistible to pass up. Living on your own for the first time can be overwhelming and expensive if you are not careful. Before you sign a lease, make sure you visit multiple locations and be certain to carefully read the fine print. Remember, a lease is a legal-bound contract for both you and the property owner. Feel free to question anything confusing or misleading. No one wants to encounter unpleasant surprises after move-in. Read over the following material and get a feel for what to expect, what to look for, and when to choose. Keep an open mind, take your time, and educate… before it’s too late 1 Introduction I. Considering a Move Off- Campus? Location The location of your new home is very important and there may be things you have not considered. If you are unfamiliar with a community or a specific place, drive around the area at differing times of day and days of the week. You may find that the home has noisy neighbors or that parking is limited on weekends. On the other hand, you may like the curb appeal and the cleanliness of the surrounding properties. Once you are familiar with the area, consider the following: GPS!!! commute • Think about the commute to and from school or work. Does the location have easy access to highways or are there issues with traffic flow? • Is the location within walking distance to and from school/work? • Is public transportation available and are you close to a bus stop (you may contact Clemson Area Transit for a list of free service areas (864) 654-2287)? • Do you have reliable transportation, and if so, remember to budget for gas/repairs/and routine vehicle maintenance? Location 2 lifestyle • The surrounding neighborhood and the property itself are important factors in your comfort level. Does the area have nearby shops, schools, restaurants, grocery stores, or recreation facilities? At this point you may need to decide if you prefer a place where the “action” is, or if you would rather be in a quiet setting. • Consider the property size. Is it big/small enough for you and is there parking, green space, storage, etc. If you have a vehicle, a garage may be important. outside the property • Do you feel safe or “at home” in this area? Think about the specifics such as street lighting and the distance from your front door to the parking or sidewalk area. Be sure to consider coming home during all hours, day and night. • Ask about safety and check in with the local police about crime statistics. • Is the property well-maintained? Be sure to note the different types of pedestrian traffic and where they are walking. Are there any cut-throughs or alleys behind the home that would encourage unwelcomed visitors in the yard? Consider the Cost So you think you found the perfect place? Have you thought about all of the costs related to living off campus? 3 Consider the Cost Renting or owning a home can be a very enjoyable experience, but can also lead to unexpected costs. There is more to the move than simply paying rent. For example, you will need to consider groceries, household supplies (like toilet paper and cleaning products), laundry, parking passes, renter’s insurance and utility costs (like water, electricity, gas, internet and cable/ satellite). In addition, many property managers require the first and last months’ rent as a security deposit. Tips for keeping cost in order: budget • Plan for the year and establish a monthly budget. See page 27 for a worksheet. • At the end of each month, add in the actual total of what you spent. There may be expenses that you fail to include and there will always be unexpected incidentals that pop up. • Once you see exactly where your money is being spent, you will be able to determine where to cut back. You may also be able to set aside a savings account of emergency funds. ask questions • Do not be afraid to contact local property managers. They are available by phone, email, and by appointment. Consider the Cost 4 • Some things to consider are: penalties for ending a lease early- if so, what is that amount, determine if your lease is signed on an individual basis or if all roommates fall under one lease, and are there additional costs added to monthly rent payments, such as parking for the month. research don’t be afraid to ask questions! • Compare housing options. You may find that living on your own is expensive. Making a list of what each apartment or house has to offer, and considering all that is involved will help you choose the best housing option. See page 28 for an apartment comparison worksheet. #3Amenities ave gotta h o o a p l! Now for the fun part! Let’s be honest, the amenities or ‘perks’ sit high on the list of what to look for. It is important to make a realistic wish list and stick to it. After all you will be the one living with these conveniences! The following amenities are common in the Clemson area and although considered a necessity to most, they may or may not be included: • Pets allowed (be sure to check into additional fees a pet deposit is common) • Access to a swimming pool, fitness area, or community room (be sure to check the hours and availability of these) • Laundry services - check for a washer/dryer connection (and determine if these are included 5 Amenities or if you have to purchase the equipment). Alternatives are coin-operated, community laundry rooms or off-site laundromats. • Appliances such as microwave, refrigerator, dish washer, garbage disposal, etc. • Maintenance is typically provided by the property owner, but be sure to consider the time frame for repairs. If you notice problems during move-in, be sure to mention them immediately- do not be afraid to document. • Garbage pick-up and recycling are often additional costs. Check to see if there is a community dumpster or drop-off location. Locate the nearest county landfill for large items. Remember, amenities are those little perks that you prefer to have but they can often be expensive or time consuming. When making your wish list, try to be flexible and open-minded. Be sure to check into all services and weigh out the pros and cons of each location. Amenities 6 City Codes/Rental Housing #4 Surrounding cities and municipalities have codes or guidelines that are routinely enforced. You may find yourself in trouble with local municipalities if these codes are broken. The following are found in the City of Clemson specifically, and while they may be similar in surrounding towns, be sure to educate yourself on what is expected from renters, roommates, and even home owners. Below are a few city codes: • The City limits the number of unrelated individuals living in houses and other residential dwellings, which simply means there is a strict limit to the number of roommates allowed. • The number of allowed roommates is dependent on the zoning district in which the dwelling is located. (Rental licensing history is also considered.) • If your proposed roommate is not your parent, child, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or first cousin, then you are not considered a relative under City code. For example, a ‘second cousin once removed’ does not count as a relation. • The City requires that a sticker, stating the allowed number of un-related occupants, be posted in each rental housing dwelling. Be sure to ask your property manager if you are renting and do not see a sticker in your home (removing a sticker will not change the facts and will require additional fees for a replacement). 7 City Codes/Rental Housing • If there is a difference between the number of occupants allowed in your lease agreement and the number listed on your occupancy sticker, then follow the smaller number to err on the side of caution. • If you or your parents plan to buy a house for your use, remember that having roommates will turn that dwelling into a ‘rental housing’ dwelling. This also means you must have a yearly rental license and abide by the rental housing standards in place by the City. The fee is $100, due in July of each year. • The City conducts a yearly inspection to ensure that the minimum life-safety standards are being followed, but it is the tenant/landlord responsibility to ensure that the unit is maintained all other 364 days of the year (this standard applies to all properties in the City of Clemson - not just rental units). • Parking is not allowed in the front yard of a property (this includes boats and other recreational vehicles). Be sure to keep off of the grass! This standard is actively enforced. • Open burning in the City is prohibited. That means no bonfires, burning of limbs and debris, or any other open fire. Also note that many property managers do not allow grilling on balconies - check before you light a flame. eful be car g! rillin when g City Codes/Rental Housing 8 For a complete list of codes, visit the City’s Municode link: www.cityofclemson.org/municode. If you are unsure of City Code or have questions concerning rental housing, the best approach is to contact the City of Clemson’s Planning & Codes Administration at (864) 653-2050. #5Choosing A Roommate The process of choosing a roommate is just that…a process! The person or people that you surround yourself with should not be a quick or carefree decision. Think hard about your compatibility with others and your lifestyle. Consider the following personalities are you a… • Night owl vs. Morning Glory • Messy Marvin vs. Clean Freak • Book Worm vs. Party Animal • Financial Guru vs. Shopaholic Being best friends does not always mean you will make good roommates. 9 Choosing A Roommate #6Lease Agreement If you have decided to move off-campus and think you found the place of your dreams, then STOP! Before you sign a lease, there are some questions you need to ask yourself. A lease is a contract, and in many cases it is binding for one whole year. Before you sign, be sure that all of your questions are answered by the property manager/owner and that there are no grey areas. If your name is going on the lease, then you will be held accountable. Be fully prepared to ask the following questions if they are not made clear in the lease: • How long does this contract last? Start date, end date? • If I break the lease, what happens? Is there a fee? • On what day of the month is rent due? • What forms of payment are acceptable for rent? • What are the fees for late rent payments and when are the fees applied? • How much is the deposit? What portion of the deposit do I get back when I move out? • Is there an application fee? • Can I have pets, and if so, do they cost extra? • Are there any utilities included in the rent? (Example: water, power, internet, cable, etc). • Under what conditions does management ask about have the right to enter my dwelling? light bulbs! • What are the amenities and do they cost extra? Lease Agreement 10 you can ? n i pa t • If you are unsure of City Code or have questions concerning rental housing, the best approach is to contact the City of Clemson’s Planning & Codes Administration at (864) 653-2050. • Under what conditions does management have the right to enter my dwelling? • May I sublease? • Are there any limitations to decorations? • Is renter’s insurance required or included? These are only a few of the things you may consider asking, and again, many of the answers may be in your contract. Be sure to carefully read the lease agreement and terms. Remember, the time to ask questions is before you sign. Be careful where you sign! II. Making the Move #7Document Move In Once you have the keys to your new place, it is important to document the move-in condition of your new home. 11 Document Move In Minor concerns may be noted and even photographed or videoed, but any major items need to be discussed before you move. The property owner needs to be informed so that they can make repairs, provide service, or in extreme cases move you in to a new location. Take nothing for granted at this point because you will be held accountable after you move in. Do not assume that a property owner is even aware of potential issues. It is your responsibility to notify them in writing. Some specific things to consider are: make sure s! • Locks, doors, and entries into it work the home - be sure that your locks and keys function properly. Consider safety first. • Check for a sprinkler system and/or smoke detector and a fire extinguisher. • Be sure that the windows are not cracked and that the window locks function properly. If you are on the ground level, you may want to keep these in the locked position at all times. • Check the water pressure in the sinks, showers, and toilets. Be sure that you have both hot and cold water. Flush the toilets - watch for leaks and listen for running water after the tank fills. A running toilet will easily double your water bill. • Check the heating and the air conditioning. Be sure that the vents are in the open position. • Make sure that all appliances are in working order. Check the refrigerator and icemaker for leaks and be sure the settings are on a moderate temperature. Document Move In 12 • Check all electrical outlets and switches for power. • Keep a detailed, written record of all contact you make with the landlord, property manager, or maintenance staff. Take notes of who you speak to, the date, and a brief description of the conversation. • Inspect the carpets, walls, ceilings, and outdoor space for any cracks, holes, stains, etc. • Vacant properties can acquire unwanted guests such as rodents or bugs. The property owners typically spray and treat for these, but be sure to note any sightings or droppings from pests. After you have completed your personal inspection, report any concerns to the property manager immediately. If they agree to make repairs, request these in writing. The move-in condition of your new home will have a direct result on your health and safety. If left unrepaired, this could result in the loss of your own security deposit. SM ILE 13 Document Move In ! :) #8Getting Connected You found the place, you signed the lease, now it is time to make the move! Before you pile your belongings into your new home, contact local service providers to get connected with utilities. Often times, finding a utility provider is tricky. Will your new power provider be Duke Energy or Blue Ridge Electric? Are your water and sewer bills combined? If you are renting, the landlord may be able to provide a list of your property service providers. You may also contact your local town hall to see what utilities are provided by the municipality. By simply providing your new address, most providers can determine if you are in their service area. Many areas of the Clemson community overlap, for example, you may live in the Town of Central, but have water service from the City of Clemson. These grey areas can be confusing and frustrating. Below are four municipalities with a close proximity to Clemson University and they may be of service to you: Town of Pendleton 310 Greenville Street Pendleton, SC 29670 864.646.9409 Getting Connected 14 City of Clemson 1250 Tiger Boulevard Clemson, SC 29631 864.653.2030 Town of Central 1067 W. Main Street Central, SC 29630 864.639.6381 City of Seneca 221 E. N. 1st Street Seneca, SC 29679 864.885.2700 Some things to consider when getting connected: • Know your address. Be sure to include details such as house or apartment numbers when relaying this information. • Be financially prepared to provide security deposits to many, or possibly all of your new utility providers. Trying to open several new accounts at once can be a costly endeavor. • Determine who will pay the bills. If you live with roommates, someone will have to put the utility account in their name. This person will be ultimately responsible for the account, including late or missed payments. Be sure that all bills and monthly payment responsibilities are discussed in advance. 15 Getting Connected • Find out what is required. Many utility providers require a copy of your drivers license or even social security card in order to start a new account. You may have to sign an agreement, or contract, and complete paperwork on site. • Is there anyone home? Find out if new service will begin automatically, or if someone must be present to meet with a technician for connections. For example, a cable or satellite provider will need access to your tv and will need to enter your home. Are you comfortable being home alone and do you have the time to meet them during their operating hours? Getting connected with utility providers is a very important step when moving Off-Campus. Be sure to do your homework and make this experience as enjoyable as possible. Water Providers: Seneca Light and Water: 864.885.2723 221 East North 1st Street, Seneca, SC 29678 Pioneer Water: 864.972.3082 5500 Wast Oak Highway, Westminister, SC 29693 Six Mile Rural Water District: 864.868.0942 214 Lusk Road, Six Mile, SC 29682 Sandy Springs Water District: 864.646.7729 6910 Clemson Boulevard, Pendleton, SC 29670 Getting Connected 16 Easley Central Water District: 864.639.2883 401 South Norris Drive, Norris, SC 29667 Pendleton Water Works: 864.646.3622 310 Greenville Street, Pendleton, SC 29670 City of Clemson Water/Utility Billing: 864.653.2035 1250 Tiger Blvd. Suite 2, Clemson, SC 29631 Electric/Power Providers: Duke Energy: To start, stop, or move service, 1.800.777.9898 Blue Ridge Electric Co-Op: 864.878.6326 734 West Main Street, Pickens, SC 29671 Other Utilities: Fort Hill Natural Gas: 864.882.8126 214 N. Walnut Street, Seneca, SC 29678 Northland Cable: 864.882.0002 615 N. Pine Street, Seneca, SC 29679 #9 City of Clemson Services The City of Clemson strives to be “In Season, Every Season.” Whether it is during football season, summer school, or just an ordinary day of the week, the City is available 24/7 to service citizens. The City maintains E-911 service for emergencies and dispatch operators are available at the Clemson Police Department by phone at 864.624.2000. Although these services are provided for your safety, residents are also expected to do their part. 17 City of Clemson Services • Make your street address number visible from the street, placed next to your front door (Typically these are in place for renters). • Keep a stocked supply of emergency basics such as ark... Band-Aids, flashlights, and batteries. in the d sitting UN! NOT F • Check smoke and fire detectors to ensure that they are in working order. In addition to safety concerns, the City of Clemson also offers a variety of services. In addition to water and sewer, the City’s Public Works (DPW) Department offers state-of-the-art GPS technology for sanitation and recycling pick-up. Their award winning system, Pinpoint Public Works, not only saves on fuel efficiency but also ensures a safe and timely pick-up of household garbage & curbside debris. If you have specific questions for the City of Clemson Public Works Department, you contact them at 864.653.2053. • If you are moving into an apartment or other multi-family complex, you should have a dumpster on site. Most property managers have existing dumpsters, but new renters should inquire about the location of these. • If you plan to live in a single-family house, duplex, or townhouse, the City will provide a green roll cart City of Clemson Services 18 for your waste and a green recycling bin for your recyclables (fees may apply). Both need to be placed curbside and have specific pick-up dates and RECYC times. For details, call 864.653.2053. L E!!! • Corrugated cardboard (aka moving boxes) are not collected on the weekly pick-up routes. Household chemicals, like cleaning products, motor oil, and similar items should never be discarded with household garbage. And white goods (for example, appliances or furniture) may be placed at the curbside for collection, but DPW must be contacted in advance and notified of pick-up requests (fees may apply). • Yard waste such as leaves and limbs can be placed at the curbside for collection, but this material is used for mulch. Please do not mix household garbage into these piles. Additional City of Clemson Departments include: Planning and Codes Administration - The City Building Official inspects all new construction, additions, and most remodeling work going on inside of the City limits. Before you begin structural work on your home, for example - adding a deck or remodeling a bathroom, you may need to obtain the proper permits. It is always best to check with the Planning & Codes Department first. You may reach them at 864.653.2050. 19 City of Clemson Services Parks & Recreation Clemson residents like to play as hard as they work, and the City offers 13 local parks and recreational facilities! The City co-owns the Central/Clemson Recreational Facility, which offers a variety of sporting events, two indoor swimming pools, weight training, exercise classes, and an indoor basketball court. Many local parks offer children play areas and the Nettles Park Facility (also the main office for this department) has a variety of outdoor sporting fields and the new addition of a dog park! be sure to get a collar!!! Clemson Area Transit - Where everyone rides free! CAT is a public service provided fare-free by the City of Clemson, Clemson University, Town of Central, Town of Pendleton, City of Seneca, Anderson County, SCDOT, and the FTA. All CAT routes and schedules may be accessed on the internet at www.catbus.com. For further information, you may also call: 864.654.2287 or 888.440.2287. City of Clemson Services 20 #10Build A Strong Community When you live away from campus, you may no longer find yourself surrounded by college students. It may take time to get to know those living around you, whether in an apartment complex or a neighborhood. Make your neighborhood your community. Think smart, make informed choices, and strive to keep your new space clean, safe, and connected. Make an effort to meet the neighbors by saying hello or introducing yourself. You may find that this new living space and these new people become your home away from home. In an effort to fit into a new community, consider: • Saying hello or sending a smile to new faces in your community. A smile goes a long way! don’t forget to • If you have a pet, clean up after it and follow local leash-laws when outdoors. Spay or neuter your animal - the fee for these procedures may range from $45 to $140, but is much cheaper than raising a litter! take a bag!!! • When participating in outdoor activities, be aware of your noise levels. Remember that a residential neighborhood may not appreciate loud games or music. 21 Build A Strong Community • Get involved! Become a leader within your neighborhood/community. Be the one that sets the standard, in a positive way, for everyone else to follow. • Attend Homeowners’ Association meetings of any community/complex meetings. These meetings are designed to keep you informed of your home and surroundings and they are a great way to meet new people. • Routinely check the bulletin boards, notices, and flyers that your property manager may send out. These are great tools for staying “in the loop.” ck che out ne Build A Strong Community ! ers tt wsle 22 #11 Holding a Party If you want to hold/host a party, and live in the City of Clemson, it is important to bear some things in mind. Here are a few tips to help you have a successful party, keeping yourself and your friends out of danger and trouble. Know your surroundings. Know who lives around you or in your neighborhood. You may want to notify surrounding residents of your intent, the date, and the start/stop time of the planned event. Proper notification will result in a better understanding between neighbors. Keep down the noise. Though this may be tough to do, most of the complaints to the Clemson Police Department are due to loud noise. If your party becomes “large” (over 30 people), it will most likely become loud. Control the size of the party and try to keep doors and windows closed. Two individuals may be having a quiet conversation, but when combined with a handful of others doing the same, the party quickly becomes unbearable for neighbors. Keep the numbers small. Large numbers on the invite list create large problems for the party host, the neighbors, and the police. The size and layout of your residence will play a major 23 Holding a Party role in the number of people you can accommodate. Trying to fit 100 people in a fifteen by fifteen room is not only uncomfortable; it could quickly lead to problems. Keep the number reasonable. Problems with large parties include: theft, vandalism, and City code violations. Designate security. This does not mean you need to hire a “bouncer,” but you might consider designating two or three persons to insure that noise stays within reason, no one consumes alcohol underage, property is not destroyed, and belongings are not stolen. Responsible individuals can volunteer to be designated drivers. Designate an area for parking. It is important that your friends do not create parking problems for your complex, neighborhood, or streets. Designate a place for guests to park so that they do not block roads, driveways, or emergency access points. A good rule to follow is if the police cannot get an emergency vehicle (fire truck or ambulance) through the area, your vehicle may be towed. Holding a Party 24 Be responsible. If you decide to hold a party, remember that someone must take responsibility for what happens before, during, and after the event. If guests become loud, they must be asked to lower their voices or leave. If guests are intoxicated, they must stop drinking and find an alternate ride home. By hosting a party, you may be held liable for actions of guests, even after they leave your residence. Generally, if the police arrive, it is because they were called for a complaint. Communicate with the offices by letting them know you are the host, keep others out of your conversation with them, and comply with their suggestions. 25 Holding a Party As you have learned from this guide, there are many pros and cons to making the move off campus. You are ultimately responsible for educating yourself. The research, the house hunting, signing the dotted line, moving, and settling in are all part of what can be a very enjoyable experience. But making the leap without the proper education can be expensive, dangerous, and unsafe. The Joint City/University Advisory Board takes pride in and stands by the goal to “Educate before it is too late,” and we hope that you will take pride too - in your decisions, your surroundings and your life! 26 Item Basic Budget Monthly Estimate Rent Repairs/Upkeep Electricity Gas Water/Sewer Home Phone/Internet Cell Phone Trash Other Parking Permit/Meter Car Payment Gas Repairs/Upkeep Insurance/Tags Groceries Eating Out Clothing Hair Health Insurance Medical Co-Pay Tuition Entertainment Gifts Misc-Bank/Postage Extra Cash/Spending Vacation Petcare Savings Account Other Totals 27 Budget Worksheet Actual Total Remaining Balance (Pos/Neg) Apartment Comparison Worksheet Comparisons APT. 1 APT. 2 APT. 3 Complex Name Address Distance from School/Work Property Manager Property Phone # Monthly Rent/Cost Length of Lease # Bedrooms # Bathrooms Parking Utilities Included Pets Allowed Furnished? Subleasing Allowed? Pros Cons Additional Comments Overall Opinion Notes Apartment Comparison Worksheet 28 III. Important Contacts Online Resources #12 City of Clemson http://www.cityofclemson.org/ Clemson Area Transit http://www.catbus.com/ Off Campus Housing http://clemsonoffcampus.com/ On Campus Dining http://www.campusdish.com/en-US/CSSE/Clemson On Campus Parking http://www.clemson.edu/campus-life/campus-services/parking/ 29 Online Resources #13Help!!! City resources: City of Clemson PD 864-624-2000 Fire and EMS 911 City of Clemson City Hall 864-653-2030 City Planning and Codes office 864-653-2050 University Resources: Dean of Students Office 864-656-0471 CUPD 864-656-2222 Judicial Affairs (Office of Community and Ethical Standards) 864-656-0510 Redfern Health Center 864-656-2233 Financial Aid 864-656-6253 Commuter Meal Plans 864-656-1237 Student Legal Services (facilitated through Undergraduate Student Government) 864-656-2195 Help!!! 30 Just because you live off campus doesn’t mean you can’t use on-campus resources! The Dean of Students Office is here to help with your needs both on and off campus. Please email, call or come by our office located in room 202 in the Hendrix Student Center with any questions or concerns. We can help with clemson.edu/student-affairs t student crisis of any kind, t alcohol and drug concerns, t grief and other counseling, t health needs and activities, t how to get involved at Clemson, t major and career issues, t parental concerns or questions. Email us at [email protected] or [email protected] or call at 864-656-0471. HABiTAT FOr HuMANiTY Build CiviC EngagEmEnt • EmpowEr ClEmson • muniCipal Court • Community EduCators • onE ClEmson • oriEntation ambassadors • FratErnity and sorority liFE • rEstorativE JustiCE • unity proJECt • divErsity and lEadErship EduCation • undErgraduatE sExual violEnCE prEvEntion • graduatE studEnt govErnmEnt • Crisis managEmEnt aCadEmiC Community Builder clemson.edu/student-affairs Clemson University’s vision is to become a top-20 institution. In support of this vision, Student Affairs will provide an exemplary, comprehensive and integrated student life curriculum, resulting in the nation’s most engaged, satisfied, and successful student body. 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