It's almost time for break and some well-deserved rest and relaxation. But before you hit the road or snuggle up on the couch, take a few minutes to make sure your room is ready for break too.

If you are staying on campus for break:

All residence halls remain open during break periods, and residents may stay on campus at no additional cost. However, if you are planning to stay for any period of the break, you need to sign up for Break Housing so that our Residential Education and Public Safety staff are aware of who will be in the building. This also helps us best serve students over the break with the appropriate custodial levels in the bathrooms.

Sign up for break housing using the Housing Portal.

If you are leaving campus for the break period:

Please be aware that UHDS staff will be doing checks of each room to make that there are no health or safety issues present, including waste in the trash, windows left open, or appliances/devices plugged in. (Refrigerators can remain plugged in; see below for additional information on defrosting refrigerators).

Health and safety checks will begin at 1 p.m. on the Friday of finals week. You do not have to be present for your room check, but if you would like to be there, schedule a time with your Resident Assistant.

Checklist before you leave for break:

  • If you have a vacant space in your room, it must be ready for a potential new roommate before you leave for the break. If you have spread out to the other side of the room, you must remove all items from the bed, desk, and wardrobe and ensure your room is clean.
  • Remove all perishable items in case of power outages, or if you plan to defrost your fridge.
  • If you plan to defrost your refrigerator, please do so at least 24 hours before you leave.  Be sure to place a towel or two under it to catch the water while it defrosts.
  • Securely close and lock all windows.
  • Close all blinds.
  • Open the heater valve. Valve should be turned to the left.
  • Unplug all electrical appliances and devices, including computers, hair dryers, curling irons/straighteners, holiday lights, etc.
  • Remove all garbage and recycling, as well as any perishable items, and dispose of them in the outside dumpsters and recycling bins. If custodial staff need to respond to a room due to significant cleaning issues that are a pest management concern, residents will be charged a fee. 
  • Remove any fire hazards.
  • Turn off clock radios/alarms.
  • Take any trays, dishes, etc., back to the dining centers.
  • Return any lounge furniture or other room’s furniture to the place of origin. Failure to do so will result in a charge and an incident report being filed.
  • Turn off all lights.
  • Lock your door behind you as you leave.
  • Take your keys/student ID card home with you and remember to bring them back so you can get into your room.
  • If you have a bicycle outside, check to make sure it is locked and secure before leaving, or talk with your roommates to determine if bikes can be stored in the room during the break.

Final step? Have a safe and restful break!

If you have any questions about break housing or leaving your room for the break, contact your Resident Assistant, Resident Director/Area Director, or Service Center. You can also contact our main office at 541-737-4771.