Students attending college or university for the first time and living off-campus often experience new situations in life, such as living independently and having a roommate or neighbors. It is important for students to work together as a community and to be good neighbors.

Here are some suggestions on how students can be a good neighbor!

Be Friendly

It's polite to introduce yourself to your neighbors. Say hello when bumping into one another in the hall or driveway. Drop a note in their mailbox if you don't cross paths often. Exchange contact information should an emergency ever come up for either party.

Be Considerate

Be aware of your noise levels and the time of day. If you are living in a unit with shared walls (an apartment, duplex, condo, etc.), be considerate of those on the other side. Follow the rules and sanitizing guidelines for houseguests while bringing people in and out of your unit, especially during potential coronavirus outbreaks in the community. It is important to be considerate of others, and hopefully reciprocal consideration will be received.

Be Mindful

Review the by-laws that pertain to your city. These may include, but are not limited to:
 

• Parking
• Snow removal
• Noise
• Lawn maintenance
• Garbage disposal
• Pets
• Watering grass
• Outdoor fire pits
• Smoking and vaping on the property grounds

Be Proactive

Know the day your garbage and recycling pickup are scheduled for and what you can/cannot leave at the curb. Promptly put garbage containers away after pickup has been completed. If an issue arises with the property’s garbage collection, notify your landlord as soon as possible to have the issue rectified.

Be Responsible

It is best to avoid conflict with any neighbors. However, if an issue is unavoidable, try to deal with the issue as maturely and rationally as possible. Determine the difference between issues you can handle on your own, from those you may need to enlist outside support with, such as a parent, family member, the landlord or police.

Keep in mind – friendly, considerate, and mindful communication is key to any successful relationship!

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