What do we do: Signing Leases
It is that time of year when undergraduates finalizing signing leases with house corporations or with local housing groups for residency next academic year. While house corporations are focused on filling the fraternity house, doesn’t the house corporation also have a responsibility to educate our younger brothers on what they should be looking for when signing leases?
The following checklist provides the ground work for the house corporations to have an one hour session with the undergraduates:
- Are smoke alarms installed? Working?
- How old are the smoke alarms?
- How often are the smoke alarms checked and batteries changed?
- Are there at least two ways to exit your living space and your building?
- Do the upper floors have a fire escape or ladder available for each bedroom? (if there are multiple floors)
- Are the living unit doors rated for fire?
- Are fire extinguishers available? Working?
- Were the fire extinguishers inspected within the last year?
- Is a sprinkler system installed?
- Is the electrical wiring adequate?
- Is the building regularly inspected by the local fire department or college emergency management office for safety?
- What is the owner’s policy and method for correcting safety problems in the building?
- Has there ever been a fire in this building? If so, identify the cause.
- Does the residence have a gas or electric stove/oven?
- Do you know how to use the appliance(s) correctly?
- Where is the nearest fire hydrant on the street?
- Who is responsible for keeping it cleared in the winter season?
- Did the school recommend the unit for student housing?
- Is the owner a member in good standing in a landlord/tenant association or other housing association?
- Has the city and/or university received any safety complaints regarding this building?
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Categories: Education, Operations, Security & Safety
Jereme Grinslade
