Housing Policy Guide

Housing Policy Guide

Welcome to SUNY Delhi!

The Office of Residence Life extends a warm welcome to you. We look forward to helping make your residence hall experience one that is full of friendship and educational achievement. This guide contains the rules, regulations, policies and procedures necessitated by group living conditions.

You are responsible for familiarizing yourself with all the specifics for living in the residence halls.

Notice of Non-Discrimination

Pursuant to University policy, SUNY Delhi is committed to fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, domestic violence victim status, or criminal conviction. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the college community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law, or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.

The University’s policy is in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination and harassment. These laws include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as Amended by the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972, and the New York State Human Rights Law. These laws prohibit discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment and sexual violence.

Inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and other laws, regulations and policies prohibiting discrimination may be directed to:

Ruth Ehrets

Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator, Interim Director of Human Resources,
105 Bush Hall, SUNY Delhi, 454 Delhi Drive, Delhi, New York 13753; phone: 607-746- 4498, Email: ehretsrh@delhi.edu.

Rebecca Harrington

Assistant Director of Student Rights & Responsibilities / Title IX Deputy Coordinator,
F209 Russell Hall, SUNY Delhi, 454 Delhi Drive, Delhi, New York 13753, Phone: 607-746-4865, Email: harrinrl@delhi.edu.

Inquiries may also be directed to the United States Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, 32 Old Slip 26th Floor, New York, NY 10005-2500; Telephone: 646-428-3800; Email: OCR.NewYork@ed.gov. 

SUNY Delhi Housing Policy Terms and Conditions of Occupancy

Agreeing to this Housing Policy Guide is legally binding for the 2024-2025 academic year in both the state-owned residence halls and Riverview at Delhi, Inc. housing (Riverview Townhouses), or from the time the agreement takes effect until the end of the spring semester in either state or Riverview at Delhi, Inc. owned housing. 

To live in the residence halls, students must be full-time matriculated students and actively attending all classes. Exceptions to this policy can be made by the Director of Residence Life or their designee, including for students employed by the college during the summer semester. The college reserves the right to remove students from campus housing who are not actively attending classes or who are registered for fewer than 12 credit hours each semester. Students are billed for campus housing on a semester basis.

The rules and regulations regarding residence hall housing as promulgated by the State University of New York Board of Trustees state:

Every student in full-time attendance at a state-operated unit of the University, other than married students or students residing with a parent or guardian, shall be required to live in a residence hall maintained and operated by such unit, or have permission under such provisions as may be made therefore, by the chief administrative officer of such unit, to live off campus.

All full-time undergraduate students must live in SUNY Delhi residence facilities. Students may request permission to live off campus; students who meet the following exceptions will automatically be approved to live off campus prior to entering into the housing agreement for an academic year, but still must submit the Request to Live Off Campus Form (under the “Forms” link located on the Residence Life home page):

• married students;
• students living with parents or guardians and commuting (within a 50 mile radius);
• students 21 years of age or older, prior to October 1 of the academic year in which they enroll (prior to March 1 for those enrolling for the spring semester);
• Students who are closed out of on-campus housing and therefore must live off campus.

Anyone not meeting the above requirements may submit the Request to Live Off Campus Form and have their request considered on a case-by-case.

Once a student completes a housing application, agreeing to the terms and conditions for on-campus housing, they have entered into the housing license and they are financially obligated for the entire academic year, even if they meet the above requirements.

All students living in the residence halls are responsible for keeping on file with the Office of Residence Life their current permanent home address (via Bronco Web) and their emergency contact information (via the online Student Housing Management System).

Failure to check into the hall, reside in the assigned room, eat meals, or pay room and board charges does not release a student from the obligations set down by the college for living on campus.

Students who have applied for on-campus housing and who decide not to attend college, having previously been in attendance, must notify the Office of Health and Counseling Services for official withdrawal from the college. Until this is done, the student will be held responsible for the housing costs under his/her residence hall license. 

Mid-Year Requests for Release from Housing Agreement (License)

Students requesting release from their residence hall license after taking occupancy on campus must complete the release process before they vacate their residence hall assignment. Making a request does not ensure release from the housing agreement. Students should not make alternate housing arrangements until they receive official notification of their release. Students who are released from the housing agreement have ten days from their release date, if prior to the tenth week of the semester, to contact the CADI Office in Farrell Student and Community Center to make changes or alterations to their meal plan.

Forms and information regarding the release process can be found on the Residence Life website under “Forms.”

Students who are approved a release will be assessed a $350.00 Housing Cancellation charge.

Grievances and Appeals of Non-Conduct Matters

If a student believes (s)he has a legitimate grievance with a member of the Residence Life Staff, or wants to appeal a decision made by a member of the Residence Life Staff that does not concern a conduct matter, that student may seek redress of the problem through the following steps:

1. When possible, the student should bring the complaint directly to the staff member concerned and together they should resolve the problem.
2. If the student cannot bring the complaint directly to the staff member concerned, or the matter is not resolved satisfactorily, the student may address the concern to that staff member’s direct supervisor, preferably in writing (email is fine). If the original problem was with an RA, then the student should pursue the matter with the RD of that building. If the original problem was with an RD, then the student should consult the RD's supervisor (usually the Assistant or the Senior Assistant Director of Residence Life) located in the Residence Life Central Office in Catskill Hall.

3. If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved with the Assistant or the Senior Assistant Director of Residence Life, then the student may arrange a meeting with, or file an appeal in writing (email is fine) to, the Director of Residence Life.
4. If the student is still dissatisfied, (s)he may arrange a meeting with or file an appeal in writing to the Assistant Vice President of Student Life, who will issue the final decision on the matter. 

Room Rates

The cost for a standard double room is determined during the spring semester for the following academic year. The rates are available on the Residence Hall Rates web page. Students are housed on an academic year basis and billed by the semester. College policy requires all students living in the residence halls, both new and continuing, to pay an advance room deposit of $100 prior to each academic year (or prior to the spring semester, if beginning in the middle of the academic year). All bills are due and payable prior to the first day of classes. 

Refunds

Any refund of the $100 advance room deposit must be requested in writing prior to June 1, (January 7 for students new to campus spring term), or within 30 days from the date of payment up to the first day of classes.

Refunds of the room charges for each semester, if any, after a student is registered and has occupied a room, are based upon the listing of refund deadlines and amounts found on the Student Financial Services web page.

Students who are dismissed or removed from the residence halls or who withdraw from college mid-term and leave personal belongings in the room must arrange with the RD of their hall to collect their belongings within one week of their departure. Unclaimed items will be disposed of immediately at the discretion of the college. 

Dining Plans/CADI Dining Plan Refund Policy

All students residing in SUNY Delhi residence halls, with the exception of Riverview Townhouses, must purchase a dining plan. Dining plans for commuter students are optional and must be added to your account. The default dining plan for residential students is the 14 meals-per-week plan. Dining plans can be reduced, upgraded or added during the first 10 days of scheduled classes by visiting the Residence Life web page and clicking on the “Student Housing Management Access” button.

Full dining plan descriptions are available on the CADI web page. In purchasing a dining plan, the student enters into an agreement with CADI for a tax exempt, non-refundable, non-transferable dining plan. Students are responsible for reviewing and adhering to CADI Rules and Regulations. 

Social Fee

There is a non-refundable Residence Hall Social Fee collected from each student living in the residence halls. This social fee entitles students to participate in activities within or specifically for their individual residence hall (e.g., BBQs, parties, movies, shopping trips, contests, etc.). 

General Conditions

Students agree to abide by all rules and regulations concerning living in a college residence hall as stated in this Housing Policy Guide and in the Student Code of Conduct.

The residence hall agreement is binding for one academic year (fall and spring semesters). Exceptions are made for students graduating, or other situations where a student ceases enrollment at the end of the fall semester or entering the residence hall during the spring semester. The agreement period does not include vacation periods or scheduled breaks. 

Resident Conduct 

The Director of Residence Life, the Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities, or the Assistant Vice President and Vice President for Student Life, or their designees, have the option of instructing residents to find other accommodations, either on or off campus, if the resident's behavior is deemed unduly disruptive or a danger to the well-being of themselves or others.

For reasons of health, safety, security, or conduct, the college reserves the right to remove a student from the residence halls. Students may be restricted from either residing in or entering residence halls for violations of the rules stated in the Housing Policy Guide and/or the Student Code of Conduct. 

Search by Consent/Inspections/Repairs

The college reserves the right to enter, repair, inventory, inspect, or search, and students expressly consent to such entry or entries into, any student space at any time, including but not limited to health and safety inspections of residence hall rooms. This includes Residence Life staff, University Police Department officers, Facilities staff, and any other college employees or contractors who have a legitimate need to enter the space.

Search Incidental to Arrest

University Police may conduct a search incidental to arrest by warrant or for a crime committed in their presence. 

Search by Warrant

University Police may conduct a search when issued a search warrant by a court. This search can be conducted in the presence or absence of the occupant. If the occupant is absent, a copy of the search warrant can be obtained at the University Police office in North Hall. 

Service of Warrants or Other Papers

Whenever outside law enforcement agencies, process servers, or other legally authorized individuals are required to serve official papers or enforce arrest or search warrants, the college will attempt to cooperate in order to minimize interference with campus activities and to protect all persons. In the case of students, Student Life staff will assist in locating the students involved and will attempt to protect the rights of the students. This policy is not binding on external law enforcement agencies. 

Inspection Vs. Search

Part of the college’s responsibility for the supervision of college residence halls is a responsibility for student health and safety, as well as protection of property. To this end, public and private areas of college residence halls are inspected. This may include representatives from local, state and federal inspection agencies, as well as college personnel. Whenever possible, inspection of a student’s room is accomplished with a student present.

The Director of Residence Life, as the college’s Chief Housing Officer, may give permission to residence hall staff to enter and/or search a student’s room under specific circumstances and with no legal ramifications. This right is seldom used and can be employed only when a suspicion exists that college regulations and/or NY State laws are being violated, or in case of an emergency. 

Confiscated Items

Prohibited items (e.g., cooking appliances, candles, etc.) that are found in residence hall rooms will be confiscated by residence hall staff during health and safety inspections, room visits, or when violations of college policy warrant entry into a student room. A notice of confiscation is given to the student. These items may be claimed by students through the RD of the hall at semester breaks or the end of that semester. Returned items must be removed from campus immediately upon their return. Any confiscated items not claimed by the end of the semester will be disposed of by the college. 

Residence Hall Policies and Procedures 

Explanation of Room Assignment

The method of assigning rooms is based on both State University Policy and on factors that Residence Life Staff have determined lead to roommate compatibility.

College policy requires that all students living in the residence halls, both new and continuing, pay an advance room deposit of $100 and submit a Residence Hall Agreement and Request Form each academic year. Once both the deposit and agreement are received by the Office of Residence Life, the student’s application for on-campus housing is complete. Continuing student assignments are completed before incoming students are assigned.

Rooms are designated for male or female occupancy, and the Office of Residence Life separates male and female applications for the purpose of room and roommate assignments. A student’s male or female status is determined by the designation given in the school’s official record. 

Special Accommodations

Any student requesting accommodations due to special medical circumstances must submit their request accompanied by the appropriate forms by the deadline (below); forms may be faxed to 607-746-5087. Forms and more information can be found online on the Residence Hall Accommodations web page.

SUNY Delhi reserves the right to make decisions regarding special need accommodations housing based on state and federal law and fair housing practices. The request for special needs accommodations does not imply that the desired occupancy level and/or housing assignment will be received. 

Incoming Students: New Freshmen and Transfer Students

The procedure for assigning rooms takes into consideration the following:

1. New freshmen and transfer students will be assigned housing in the order in which they pay their housing deposits and complete their housing application.
2. The Office of Residence Life allows students to indicate the halls of their choice and attempts to accommodate that choice when possible. While we try to give students what they request, availability sometimes requires going to second and third choices, and sometimes beyond. 
3. Experience has demonstrated that greater compatibility is achieved by placing students together who have similar smoking habits. Experience has also indicated that students with similar academic interests, similar class schedules, and common study needs have a greater compatibility and a greater chance of success than simple random assignments of roommates. For this reason, we request that the student honestly answer the questions on the Residence Hall Agreement and Request Form. 
4. If a student would like to request a specific person as a roommate, that person’s name should be on the Residence Hall Agreement and Request Form. Both/all parties must mutually request each other and we must receive all parties’ deposits, agreements and requests to room with one another by May 1 for fall assignments (January 2 for students entering spring term) in order to attempt to honor a roommate request. Roommate requests will be honored based on space availability.

Housing will not be guaranteed for agreements forms received after June 1.

Continuing Students: Housing Selection

Unlike incoming students, continuing students select their own roommates and housing assignments. Detailed instructions are disseminated during spring term for housing for the following academic year.

1. In order to participate in the Housing Selection process, returning students must pay the advance room deposit of $100 and submit a Residence Hall Agreement and Request Form for the next academic year during a specific announced window of time, generally during March and April.
2. Assigned times for selecting room assignments are ordered by the number of credits the student has earned by the end of the fall term prior to Housing Selection.
3. If a student pays the advance room deposit and submits a Residence Hall Agreement but fails to select their housing assignment by the stated deadline, the Office of Residence Life will select an assignment for them, based on the preferences indicated on the Residence Hall Agreement and Request Form. For this reason, we request that the student honestly answer the questions on the Residence Hall Agreement and Request Form.

Housing will not be guaranteed for agreement forms received after the announced deadline.
 

Room Assignment Notification

Room assignments appear on the Student Housing Management System website as soon as they are made. Students may log in to that system to check their assignment status at any time. New freshmen and transfer students will receive an email notifying them when the housing assignments are posted online (residence hall and room number). They will also receive a mailing from the Office of Residence Life in August informing them of move-in information.

Room Assignments

The Office of Residence Life reserves the right to change room or hall assignments, to assign roommates, to consolidate assignments due to vacancies, and to change occupancies as it deems necessary and without consent of the occupants. The college reserves the right to assign new occupants to fill vacancies and to move students to fully utilize its residence facilities. All room assignments are made by the Office of Residence Life. Residents are prohibited from taking a roommate or permitting any part of the room to be shared by persons not duly assigned by the Office of Residence Life.

Students assigned to double or triple occupancy rooms should expect a roommate, unless otherwise notified by the Office of Residence Life. Students who, due to high occupancy levels, are assigned to live in a triple room will be refunded a portion of their room rental charge.

A triple room is deemed any room with three students residing in it, a double room is deemed any room with two students residing in it, and a single room is deemed any room with one student living in it.

The college reserves the right to change the occupancy of a room with an adjustment in room costs for all students involved. Any change in room rental rates occurring because of a change in the status of a student’s room becomes effective on the date that the change occurs.

The Residence Life Program at SUNY Delhi is committed to a policy of non-discrimination in all its operations and facilities. Assignments to the residence hall are not based upon race, religion, creed, color, or national origin. 

Overflow Housing, Consolidation and Buyouts

At times, because of high occupancy rates, students may be assigned to temporary “overflow” housing. As space becomes available, these students will be re-assigned to permanent assignments at the college’s discretion. Students housed in temporary assignments will receive a partial refund credited to their student account after the second week of classes. A second partial refund will be issued after the semester mid-term, if the temporary assignment has not been resolved.

Sometimes, through graduation, withdrawal or a room change, a student may find themselves assigned to a room without a roommate. Students temporarily without a roommate must confine their belongings to their section of the room in readiness for a roommate to move in to the open space.

Failure to do so may result in additional charges for a single room and/or conduct action.

Under such circumstances, the Office of Residence Life may assign another student as a roommate. Often, but not always, the resident of the room will be allowed a specified window of time, usually no more than one week, to arrange for a friend to become the new roommate. The student’s RD assists in making these arrangements.

When two or more students in separate assignments are without a roommate, the Office of Residence Life may choose to consolidate these assignments to conserve resources or maximize hall occupancy. This would mean that, at the discretion of Residence Life Staff, one of these students would be moved into the other student’s room.

When space permits, the Office of Residence Life may permit the student to buy out the room as a single. Because the cost of a single room is greater than the cost of other rooms on campus, we advise students to consult with anyone who may assist them in financing their college expenses prior to choosing to buy out a room as a single.

If a student is given a letter requesting they either: (1) arrange for a new roommate of their choice; (2) prepare to have their room assignment consolidated; or (3) buy out their room as a single, they will be given a specified period of time in which to inform the RD of their choice and accomplish the action. If the student fails to arrange for a new roommate or to comply with a request to consolidate their assignment, the student will default to incurring charges for buying out the room as a single. 

Holding of Room Assignments

Room assignments will not be held longer than noon on the first day of classes. Students who do not check in to their assigned residence hall room on time will forfeit their deposit, their hall assignment, and roommate assignment. Students who anticipate or experience a problem with their arrival should contact the Office of Residence Life in writing at ResLife@delhi.edu to make special arrangements to have this date extended. Failure to do so may result in the assigning of the room to a student currently on the waiting list. 

Check-in

Students will receive information regarding checking in to the residence hall as part of their assignment notification prior to their arrival for the start of the semester. Please follow these directions to avoid delays and confusion on your scheduled check-in day.

No provisions can be made for students who wish to arrive early. Students with transportation problems should plan to take commercial transportation to the college and have their belongings shipped to their campus address or brought at a time convenient to their families. Students who arrive before their scheduled check-in day and time will be assessed a $50 per day charge applied to their account and may be held liable through the campus conduct system. 

Check-Out

Residents must depart the residence halls by the time the residence halls close for breaks, the semester, and the year. Failure to depart on time for break will be assessed a $50.00 late check-out charge plus $75.00 per night which will be applied to their student account. Student may be held liable through the campus conduct system.

Room Change Request Policy

Please note, no room change requests will be accepted once the assignments have been completed and released to students until after the second week of classes. All changes must be approved by the Director of Residence Life or his/her designee.

When a room change is granted, the following guidelines must be adhered to by each student involved:

1. No student may initiate a room change during the first two weeks of the semester.
2. After the second week of classes, approval may be given, based on space availability, for a student to move. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. Priority for room changes will be determined by the administrative staff for the residence hall.
3. Any room or roommate change request must have the approval of the RD of each residence hall concerned.
4. Students who move from a residence hall to the Riverview Townhouses have through the tenth week of classes of the semester to make any change or alteration to their existing meal plan. Changes must be made at the CADI Office located in Farrell Student and Community Center. 
   
   

Withdrawal/Dismissal/Checkout

A student still enrolled in classes who vacates his/her room before the expiration of an academic year will be fully liable for the applicable academic year charge for campus housing.

Residents who are granted an academic leave of absence or withdraw from the college must check out of the residence halls within 24 hours of the effective date of their leave of absence or withdrawal.

Dismissal or any other separation from SUNY Delhi shall automatically revoke a student’s occupancy of an on-campus room. A resident who is dismissed or otherwise separates from the school must vacate their assigned room within 24 hours of such dismissal or separation.

At the time of checkout, students must return their assigned room key. Lost or unreturned keys will result in a lock change and key replacement charge billed to the student’s account. The room must be left broom-swept and in proper physical condition by the resident(s) and all personal property must be removed. Students must follow all checkout procedures issued by the Office of Residence Life.

SUNY Delhi will not be held responsible for any items left behind after checkout. 

Damages to Resident Rooms

It is the responsibility of all students to keep their rooms clean and neat and to maintain a basic standard of health and safety. Minimal standards of cleanliness will be set and assessed by the Residence Life Staff. Prior to move-in, a room condition report is completed for each room. It is the student’s responsibility to access the online Student Housing Management System and approve or comment on their room condition report. Failure to do so within five days of moving in will result in the room condition report becoming finalized without the student’s input.

When a student moves out of a room, a member of the Residence Life Staff will inspect the room for damages and estimate the cost for repairs. Full replacement value for damages to the room that are beyond normal wear and tear will be billed to the individual(s) assigned to the room. If individual responsibility cannot be established, all occupants of the room will be charged the total cost of the repair divided by the number of residents in the room. Extraordinary cleaning required because of abuse of facilities or trash left in the room will also be charged to the occupants. 

Common Area Damages

When a common area (such as a bathroom, hallway or lounge) is damaged or vandalized, every resident who lives in that area is billed a share of the cost for repair or replacement, if the ensuing investigation does not result in the guilty party either coming forward on his/her own or being identified by an eyewitness. Please be aware that trash left behind, spills, room trash in the bathroom or a mess of any kind is considered vandalism. To avoid being billed, residents must properly dispose of their trash in the trash room or the dumpster, clean up messes that occur, and report to an RA or RD any acts of vandalism or damage witnessed. 

Damage Charge Appeals

Students with unpaid charges on their account, either for their room or for common area damages, will not be able to receive grades or transcripts or register for classes for upcoming terms. Students appealing damage charges regarding the 2023-2024 academic year must do so through an electronic form located on the Residence Life web page by July 1, 2024. Questions can be directed to the Office of Residence Life. 

Hall Openings and Closings

For information on dates and times for residence hall and college opening, closing, semester breaks and vacations, students should consult their Student Handbook or the college website.

All halls are scheduled to be closed during breaks and vacations for the 2023-2024 academic year. Students will not have access to their rooms, campus mailboxes, or residence hall facilities during breaks. Students may leave their belongings in the room over break periods, providing they are returning to school after the break; it is advisable not to leave valuable items in the room over break, however, as a precaution against damage or theft.

As stated under “General Conditions” in this Guide, the housing agreement period does not include vacation periods or scheduled breaks. The residence halls will not be open for student occupancy during the break periods. Only those students (e.g., international students, athletes, those with housing insecurity) who have approval from the Director of Residence Life or his/her designee will be allowed to stay in the residence hall over any break period. There may be an additional daily charge for students who stay over the break period. Students need to make arrangements to leave campus during break periods.

At the end of each semester, residents must vacate their rooms no later than 24 hours after their last academic experience (exam, paper, etc.), with the exception of graduating seniors in the spring semester, who must vacate the residence halls following commencement services by 6 p.m. The residence halls officially close for maintenance, cleaning, and renovation immediately after graduation ceremonies. Keys not returned at checkout will result in a lock change and key replacement charge billed to the student’s account. 

Residence Hall Guest Policy

1. Residents must have permission from their roommate (if they have one) at least 24 hours prior to the arrival of their overnight guest. An overnight guest is anyone, other than your roommate, who remains in your room overnight.
2. Students should obtain their roommate(s)’s consent to have an overnight guest.
3. No one under the age of 18 is permitted in the residence halls at any time, unless the person is a full-time student enrolled at SUNY Delhi. Exceptions can be made with the approval of the Director of Residence Life or his/her designee, or during special college functions and events.
4. Students are responsible for the behavior of their guests (whether staying overnight or not) and may be held accountable through the campus conduct system if their guest(s) violates college regulations.
5. Overnight guests are limited to a stay of no more than four nights per month. No more than two guests per student are allowed during any one visit.
6. Overnight guests are not permitted during final exam periods.
7. Temporary parking passes may be obtained by guests from University Police. 
8. Guests (day or nighttime) are not permitted for students who are approved to stay over break or vacation periods.

Common Area Kitchen Use

Common area kitchens are located in some of the residence halls. Use of these kitchens is open during specified hours to students living in the residence halls. Food cooked in these kitchens may not be sold. First priority for use of the kitchens will be given to the residents of the respective halls where the kitchens are located. College-recognized groups may reserve a kitchen for use for special events. Reservations and inquiries should be made with the RD of the respective building. Riverview Townhouses have full kitchens in each townhouse; these kitchens are for the use of the residents of that particular townhouse. 

Residence Hall Regulations

Individuals found to be in violation of these policies can expect disciplinary action and confiscation of the prohibited items. All expectations and regulations found in the Student Code of Conduct also pertain to students and visitors in the residence halls, though they are not reprinted entirely herein.

The following are prohibited in and around college-operated residence halls:

1. Disrespect for, or failure to comply with the directives of college personnel acting in the performance of their duties, including failure to produce identification when requested to do so. This includes, but is not limited to, college professional staff, Resident Assistants and other Residence Life Staff.
2. Reckless, disruptive or unsafe behavior, including, but not limited to, recreational activities and driving, conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person, conduct that is disorderly, lewd or indecent, and acts of vandalism and theft which are prohibited at all times. 

3. Harassment, stalking, threats, and retaliatory acts are all strictly prohibited. Physical, verbal or psychological abuse will not be tolerated.
4. Hazing in any form is a serious violation of college policy and New York State law. SUNY Delhi policy specifically prohibits students from engaging collectively or individually in illegal practices in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any recognized, unrecognized organization or athletic team. This includes, but is not limited to: forced or required participation in physical activities, any form of tattooing or branding, coerced or required consumption of alcohol or other drugs, any form of physical brutality, participation in illegal activities, engagement in conduct which creates a substantial risk of physical injury to another person, coerced consumption of any food or other substance, creation of excessive fatigue or sleep deprivation, any act that causes psychological harm, embarrassment, ridicule or emotional distress to any individual, forced inappropriate dress, or full or partial nudity in any situation for any reason, or any violation of approved Greek Council Hazing regulations.
5. Offensive or disorderly acts which interfere with the rights of any person are prohibited on campus. Of special concern are violations of quiet hour rules or excessive noise at any time.
6. Entrance or use of bathroom or shower facilities intended for use by the opposite gender.
7. As per NYS law, smoking is prohibited in all campus buildings and residence halls. As per SUNY Delhi policy, smoking is defined as the use of a lit cigarette, cigar, hookah, electronic cigarette or any other form of smoking device for legal tobacco use. Smoking and vaping is permitted only in designated gazebos and parking lots.  Hookahs are not permitted on SUNY Delhi's campus.
8. The possession, consumption, sale or transfer of alcoholic beverages by all students (regardless of age) or visitors on college or College Association property is not permitted. Exceptions to this policy apply only to academic programs and functions sanctioned by the college President. The college also holds students accountable for violations of law related to alcoholic beverages on or off campus. Students and/or visitors should be aware that their presence in an area where this alcohol policy is in violation will result in disciplinary action, regardless of their actual involvement in the consumption of alcohol. Possession of or the display of empty or refilled alcohol containers, and the display of alcohol posters, signs or advertising outside doors and windows is not permitted. Alcohol paraphernalia is not permitted on campus.
9. The possession, use and/or sale or transfer of illegal drugs or controlled substances is prohibited on or off college property. This prohibition applies to the misuse, distribution, sale or transfer of legally obtained prescription drugs. The college will uphold laws currently in effect in New York State. Students found to be engaged in the sale of drugs, or in possession of misdemeanor or felony amounts of drugs (including marijuana) will face severe disciplinary sanctions, which would likely include suspension or expulsion from the institution. Students should be aware that their presence in an area where this drug policy is in violation will result in disciplinary action, regardless of their actual involvement in the use of drugs. Drug paraphernalia is not permitted on campus.
10. Gambling is prohibited on campus.
11. The operation of any business in any room or residence hall facility is prohibited, including solicitation, canvassing or advertising on college property without the authorization of the Vice President for Student Life.
12. Unauthorized setting of fires on college or College Association property is prohibited. Tampering with any fire safety equipment, including, but not limited to, fire extinguishers, heat and smoke detectors, pull stations, pre-alarm covers, electrical conduit and wiring is prohibited. Falsely activating a fire alarm is prohibited, as is failure to leave the building in a timely fashion as a result of a fire alarm. 

13. Tampering with elevators or any college-owned or -operated electrical system or device (e.g., computer, phone, cable system, etc.) is prohibited. Structural modifications to student rooms, lounges, corridors or furniture are prohibited. Using tape or other material to seal a doorjamb is prohibited.
14. Tampering with doors, such as disabling a locking mechanism, electronic card system or entrance-phone system or propping open a door intended to be closed or locked, is prohibited. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys to any college premises, including, but not limited to, unauthorized entry to student rooms or unauthorized sharing of any college key or Identification Card by students or their guests is prohibited.
15. Tampering with or operating without cause the security screens of your residence hall room is prohibited.
16. Playing sports and riding bikes, scooters or skateboards in the building or hallways is prohibited at all times.
17. Occupying roof tops or window ledges is prohibited, as is creating a safety hazard by throwing objects into or out of residence hall windows or doors.
18. Failure to use proper trash and/or recycling containers, or dumping of trash in inappropriate locations is prohibited.
19. Possession of illegally procured property (e.g., State, Federal, Local or miscellaneous signs or equipment) is prohibited on campus.
20. Presence in the residence halls during periods the halls are closed for occupancy is prohibited without prior permission requested and granted.
21. The following items are prohibited on campus: any weapon, including, but not limited to, firearms, including BB or pellet guns, bows, slingshots, “stun-guns,” blow guns and/or darts, or use of any object with intent to harm or intimidate another individual, including knives and/or any similar devices; any ammunition associated with such devices listed above (e.g., paintballs, BBs, blow darts, etc.); firecrackers, explosives, explosive ammunition, or dangerous chemicals; knives of any sort (including “box cutters”) with the exception of approved knives or tools used for academic purposes, which must be kept secure in locked tool boxes, trunks or appropriate storage units; toy guns, water guns, cap guns or any type of imitation pistol or rifle; electric or gas powered scooters, bikes and mini-cycles; skateboards.
22. The following items are specifically prohibited in the Residence Halls: fuel-operated engines or electrically-operated table tools; large game machines; free weights over 50 pounds each, barbells, weight lifting equipment, pets and animals (with the exception of approved service or therapy animals and fish living in a ten gallon tank or smaller); air conditioners, electrical devices which produce heat, such as space heaters (with the exception of heating pads, electric blankets and hair dryers).
23. Halogen lights, light strings (such as Christmas lights), extension cords, candles, incense, flame-emitting and/or open element appliances, and any unsafe or defective equipment deemed a fire hazard in accordance with the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control are prohibited in student rooms. New York State Fire regulations specifically prohibit furniture that does not meet the flammability requirements of California Technical Bulletin 133 (CAL 133). Students should realize this is a very high standard to meet to ensure fire safety in large, institutional environments; cushioned or upholstered furniture available at most retail stores will not meet the standard. Residence hall windows are fitted with blinds, but if curtains are put up, they must include a tag identifying them as fire resistant. In addition, no more than 20% of door or wall space can be covered with posters or other combustibles. Holiday decorations are permitted, but must meet these fire and safety requirements. 
24. The following are allowed in student rooms:
    • One microwave per room, 1.1 cubic feet or less, 1100 watts or
    • One refrigerator per room, 4.5 cubic feet or less, 1.5 amp electrical draw or
    • One micro fridge (combination refrigerator/microwave).

Students cannot have both a microwave and a micro fridge; they cannot have both a refrigerator and a micro fridge. Students can have a microwave and a refrigerator only if they are both plugged in to an amperage overload protector. This device allows only the microwave or refrigerator to operate at a given time.

25. Any cooking appliance, including, but not limited to: hotplate, George Foreman grill, rice cooker, anything that boils water, and water coolers are prohibited in the residence halls. Coffee makers with automatic shutoff are acceptable.
26. Television aerials, masts and other radio transmitting or receiving equipment and Citizen Band/ham radio equipment that interferes with college communication equipment is likewise prohibited.
27. The use of equipment designed to amplify or broadcast music is prohibited.
28. Furniture must be left in the room to which it has been allocated. Furniture is not to be disassembled, nor are mattresses to be removed from bed frames. Damaging or moving college property from its designated location is similarly prohibited. Any bed not supplied by the college, including lofts and waterbeds, is prohibited. Students with medical needs should contact the Director of Residence Life for an exemption to this policy.
29. If you plan to bring a bicycle to campus, please note that bicycles may not be stored in hallways, stairways, or in any trafficked areas. 
    
    

Study/Quiet Hours

SUNY Delhi is committed to the concept that residence halls complement and foster the academic and intellectual development of students. It is expected that campus residence halls will be conducive to studying, especially in the evenings. Study/Quiet hours are in effect after 10 p.m. until 10 a.m. Sunday night through Friday morning, and 12 midnight to 12 noon Friday night through Sunday morning, throughout the academic year. During quiet hours, radios, TVs, CD players, broadcast systems and digital music equipment must be audible only to the occupants of the room in which the equipment is being played. At all times, common courtesy must prevail. Loud noise and disorderly behavior is not accepted at any time. All residents share the responsibility for enforcement of study/quiet hours.

The right to a quiet atmosphere precedes and takes priority over all social functions and gatherings.

There are areas where study/quiet hour rules apply 24 hours a day. This is meant to produce an atmosphere that is highly conducive to academic achievement. In these areas, at all times, radios, TVs, CD players and digital music equipment must be audible only to the occupants of the room in which the equipment is being played. The areas with 24-hour quiet rules are the Living Learning Communities in Russell Hall and any section designated as 24-hour quiet floor/quad. Stereos, CD players, radios, TVs, amplifiers, etc., will be confiscated if the RD determines them to be a nuisance. 

Residence Hall Furniture

Furniture is not to be removed from the room to which it is assigned. No additional furniture is permitted in the room that does not satisfy New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control and New York State Dormitory Authority regulations. Any bed not supplied by the college, including lofts and waterbeds, is prohibited. Students with medical needs should contact the Director of Residence Life for an exemption to this policy. Students should plan their accessories accordingly.

Students provide their own linens, mattress cover, blankets and bedspread. The size of campus mattresses is 81”x31,” which is longer than a usual twin bed mattress. Thus, it is suggested that you use either flat sheets or fitted bottom sheets in the “extra-long twin” size.

Personal refrigerators, microwave ovens, and micro-fridges meeting the guidelines set forth by the college may be brought to campus or rented from a local supplier (Refrigerator Leasing Company, 607-431-9525). They may be kept in student rooms in accordance with the following guidelines:

• only one microwave per room, 1.1 cubic feet or less, 1100 watts or less
• only one refrigerator per room, 4.5 cubic feet or less, 1.5 amp electrical draw or less
• only one micro-fridge allowed per room
• a room may not have both a microwave and a micro-fridge.
• a room may not have both a refrigerator and a micro-fridge.
   

You are encouraged to contact your roommate(s) before moving into the residence hall to determine who, if anyone, will bring or acquire any of this equipment.

Students causing electrical problems, such as blown circuit breakers or damage to the electrical outlet, will have the offending items confiscated, be sanctioned through the campus conduct system, and may be charged for repairs of the damage. Students not following all the guidelines for the use of microwaves and refrigerators in the residence hall will have the items confiscated and will be sanctioned through the campus conduct system.

Residence Hall Services

Residence Hall Maintenance

The college custodial staff cleans the residence hall lounges, corridors, stairwells, and lobbies on a daily basis Monday through Friday. Custodial staff clean all student bathroom facilities, with the exception of Catskill Hall. Students may empty their room’s wastebasket in trash receptacles provided in each hall in designated trash rooms, or in the dumpsters located directly outside the halls.

Damaged or broken items should be logged as a maintenance request through the online Student Housing Management System. If a repair is not made within three business days, the student should bring the situation to the attention of the RD of the building. Urgent repairs should be brought to the Residence Life Staff Immediately. 

Residence Hall Security

The college maintains a staff of University Police Officers who are on duty 24 hours a day. Officers are equipped to deal with security problems or obtain help during emergency situations. Officers make security checks of each hall several times during the night. The University Police office is located in North Hall, with a satellite office in Russell Hall. Their telephone number is 607-746-4700. You can reach them from a campus phone by dialing simply 4700.

Room Keys

Each student will be assigned a key to their room upon check-in. You are responsible for locking your door and carrying your key at all times. If your key is missing, you should inform your RD immediately. Students who lose their key, or who do not return their key at the end of the spring semester (or when they check out of their residence hall room), will be charged for the lock change and key replacement. Your room key may not be duplicated or given to anyone else and must be returned at check-out at the end of the year, or upon separation from the college. 

Card Access

Each student’s ID card also serves as an access card to the entrance doors of their residence hall. Residents have 24/7 access to the residence hall they currently reside in; all on-campus residents have access to the front and back doors of all residence halls from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (In Catskill Hall, the ID card also serves as access to the assigned suite.) College policy requires that students carry their room key and student ID card with them at all times.

Lobby phones can be used when visiting students living in other buildings. Entrance doors may not be propped for any reason. It is the responsibility of all residents to make sure residence hall entrance doors are properly closed.

Food delivery persons are not authorized to enter the residence halls. If you place an order for food to be delivered to you at your residence hall, you must be prepared to meet the delivery person at the entrance to the residence hall. 

Storage

Students are urged to bring only those items appropriate to each season (e.g., do not bring skis in August). The college cannot provide storage area for students during the academic year. During the summer recess, there is limited on-campus storage available at a nominal cost for students returning in fall. 

Security and Safety Information

Security Tips for Personal Property

Although incidents which cause damage to personal property are rare in the residence halls, students are strongly advised to have all their personal property protected against theft, damage, and other loss by appropriate individual or family coverage. The college is not responsible for theft or damage of personal belongings. It is up to each student to make arrangements for insuring these goods. A family homeowner’s or renter’s policy may provide coverage for student belongings. If additional coverage is necessary to insure the student’s property in the residence hall, National Student Services, Inc., at 1-800-654-6814 is one company that specializes in low-cost insurance for students’ personal property at college. It is wise to keep a record of the serial numbers of personal property. It is also advisable not to leave items such as books, laptop computers, etc. on the floor in one’s room, but rather keep them on the desk or dresser. 

Students should plan to take valuables home during holidays and vacations.

 The following are some tips to help avoid theft:

1. Record the numbers of all credit cards and checking accounts. Also, keep a list of the addresses of these companies and banks so that they may be notified if credit cards are lost or stolen.
2. Keep money and valuables in a secure place. Students should not keep excess amounts of cash in their rooms.
3. Keep room doors locked whenever the room is unoccupied or when occupants are not in the room.
4. If keys are lost or stolen, notify your RD immediately so that a lock change can be done. Though there is a charge for a lock change, residents’ personal safety is more important.
5. First floor residents should make sure their windows are locked and secure when they are not in the room. All first floor student rooms have a security screen installed. This screen should not be opened and should be latched shut at all times. Any problems should be immediately reported to the RD of the residence hall.
6. Any resident who is a victim of a crime should notify their RA, RD and University Police immediately. 

Crime Statistics

A copy of the State University of New York at Delhi campus crime statistics as reported annually to the U.S. Department of Education will be provided upon request by University Police, the Vice President for Student Life Office, or the campus Personal Safety Committee. Please direct all such requests to University Police at 607-746-4700. Information can also be obtained from the SUNY Delhi University Police web page, or the U.S. Department of Education website. 

Fire Safety Standards

1. In accordance with the Uniform Fire Code for the State of New York, the Office of Fire Prevention Control (OFPC) will conduct an annual fire safety inspection of the residence halls. During these inspections, students’ rooms may be opened and visually inspected for hazardous conditions. Students found in violation of campus fire safety policies will be held accountable through the campus conduct process. In addition, OFPC can levy fines for violations of the State fire code.
2. Know the location of all fire exits, fire alarm pull stations and fire extinguishers on your floor.
3. Every student must evacuate the building by the nearest marked exit during fire drills and alarm activations.
4. Wastepaper baskets and trash cans should not be used as ashtrays. Please use proper receptacles when disposing of lit smoking materials. Please remember that per New York State law, smoking is prohibited in all campus buildings and residence halls, and that per SUNY Delhi policy, smoking is permitted only in designated gazebos and parking lots.

5. Do not take chances with fire. Even a small fire can get out of control. If a fire should occur, activate the fire alarm by pulling the nearest manual fire alarm pull station. 
6. Cooking in student rooms is prohibited. Cooking appliances are also prohibited, including, but not limited to: hotplate, George Foreman grill, rice cooker.
7. Halogen lights, light strings (such as Christmas lights), extension cords, candles, incense, flame-emitting and/or open element appliances, and any unsafe or defective equipment deemed a fire hazard in accordance with the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control are prohibited in student rooms. New York State Fire regulations specifically prohibit furniture that does not meet the flammability requirements of California Technical Bulletin 133 (CAL 133). Students should realize this is a very high standard to meet to ensure fire safety in large, institutional environments; cushioned or upholstered furniture available at most retail stores will not meet the standard. Residence hall windows are fitted with blinds, but if curtains are put up, they must include a tag identifying them as fire resistant. In addition, no more than 20% of door or wall space can be covered with posters or other combustibles. Holiday decorations are permitted, but must meet these fire and safety requirements.
8. Giving false alarm of fire, tampering with fire protection equipment or any fire alarm device (e.g., pull station, smoke detector, heat sensor, etc.) is prohibited and will result in removal from the residence halls.
9. Charcoal grills are permitted on Riverview grounds as long as they are maintained properly, used with caution and stored only outside. All grills must be at least fifteen (15) feet away from the building at all times. Charcoal or any accelerant is not allowed to be stored inside buildings. Propane grills and tanks are not allowed.  

Quick Reference to Student Responsibilities & Requirements

You are responsible for familiarizing yourself with all the specifics for living in the residence halls, as contained in this Housing Policy Guide and as described in the Student Code of Conduct found online on the Student Rights and Responsibilities web page. Following is an incomplete summary of some of the major items.

1. The residence hall agreement is binding for one academic year (fall and spring semesters). Any request to be released from the agreement must be made using the online form available through a link on the Residence Life homepage. There is no guarantee you will receive a release. A student who voluntarily withdraws from school prior to the end of an academic term may or may not receive a refund of housing fees, depending upon the date of withdrawal. (A listing of refund deadlines and amounts is available on the Student Financial Services web page. A resident who loses student status prior to the end of an academic term through academic or disciplinary dismissal will not be permitted to remain in the residence halls, but will still be liable for all charges for that term. A student removed from the residence halls for disciplinary reasons prior to the end of an academic term will still be liable for all room charges for that term.

2. All students living in the residence halls are responsible for keeping current on file with the Office of Residence Life their permanent home address (via Bronco Web) and their emergency contact information (via the online Student Housing Management System).
3. You are responsible for locking your door and carrying your key and student ID card at all times. Your room key may not be duplicated or given to anyone else and must be returned at check-out or upon withdrawal from the college.
4. If your key is missing, you should inform your RD immediately. Students who lose or do not return their assigned key when they check out of the residence hall room will be charged for the lock change and key replacement. Your student ID card will permit you entrance to your residence hall (and your suite in Catskill Hall). Entrance doors may not be propped open for any reason. It is the responsibility of all residents to make sure residence hall entrance doors are properly closed.
5. Residence Life Staff alone assign students to specific rooms within the residence halls. Residents are prohibited from taking a roommate or permitting any part of the room to be shared by persons not duly assigned by the Office of Residence Life. Residents do not have a right to refuse a duly assigned roommate. During the period between the initial room assignment prior to the term through at least the second week of classes, no room change requests will be accepted. Once this freeze is lifted, requests may be made to your RD.
6. All halls are closed during breaks and vacations; only those students (e.g., international students, athletes, etc.) who have approval from the Director of Residence Life will be allowed to stay in the residence hall over a break period. All students may leave their belongings in their rooms over breaks, provided they are returning to school at the end of the break period. 
7. The college cannot store student belongings during the summer recess. Any unclaimed confiscated items or items left in rooms or otherwise unclaimed will be immediately disposed of at the discretion of the college.
8. Each resident is responsible for the condition of their building and room and the furnishings in the residence halls. College property is not to be removed from the room to which it is assigned. Missing furniture or damages beyond normal wear and tear will be billed to the individual(s) assigned to the room. If individual responsibility cannot be determined, each occupant of the room will be charged the total cost of repair or replacement divided by the number of residents of the room.