2008 Woodie Awards
Tips for students who are looking to live off campus
Christina Piazza
Issue date: 2/28/08 Section: News
Sick of campus housing?
Over 400 houses are currently listed for rent in Fairfield. Which one is right for you?
"I'm looking for a house close to campus, with lots of room in a quiet setting, access to parking is a plus, as well as decent furniture fixtures," said junior Alex DiGiorgi.
Several Sacred Heart students face this same situation. However, there are several important characteristics many students are not aware of.
First and foremost, students need to consider the legal restrictions on a house.
"Zoning laws determine what types of establishments can be in residential areas. Students must be sure that the area in which they live is zoned for multi-family housing. This is required if two or more students live in the same house and are not related. If the house is not zoned in this way, students risk getting kicked out of the house/apartment. This designation must be on a lease and it is your responsibility to insure that it is," said Prof. Matt Semel, Criminal Justice department.
Zoning laws are crucial to understand before signing a lease. Make sure you check with your realtor or landlord to verify the property is a multi-family if you plan to live with roommates.
More often, location is critical.
"Fairfield and Bridgeport have noise ordinances. Noise ordinances allow the police or other state agents to respond to complaints by neighbors about excessive noise. Repeated visits for noise violations can create problems, cost money, require court appearances and even lead to eviction in some cases," said Prof. Semel.
When looking at a house, check your surroundings.
Are you located by a major street or intersection which cars frequently travel? Does your backyard look out onto a highway? Road noise is an important nuisance to consider.
Additionally, land is important. Ensure you have enough property for your needs.
Look at the topography of the land. Does your driveway have a steep slope? This is an important issue to consider for accessibility in winter weather.
Over 400 houses are currently listed for rent in Fairfield. Which one is right for you?
"I'm looking for a house close to campus, with lots of room in a quiet setting, access to parking is a plus, as well as decent furniture fixtures," said junior Alex DiGiorgi.
Several Sacred Heart students face this same situation. However, there are several important characteristics many students are not aware of.
First and foremost, students need to consider the legal restrictions on a house.
"Zoning laws determine what types of establishments can be in residential areas. Students must be sure that the area in which they live is zoned for multi-family housing. This is required if two or more students live in the same house and are not related. If the house is not zoned in this way, students risk getting kicked out of the house/apartment. This designation must be on a lease and it is your responsibility to insure that it is," said Prof. Matt Semel, Criminal Justice department.
Zoning laws are crucial to understand before signing a lease. Make sure you check with your realtor or landlord to verify the property is a multi-family if you plan to live with roommates.
More often, location is critical.
"Fairfield and Bridgeport have noise ordinances. Noise ordinances allow the police or other state agents to respond to complaints by neighbors about excessive noise. Repeated visits for noise violations can create problems, cost money, require court appearances and even lead to eviction in some cases," said Prof. Semel.
When looking at a house, check your surroundings.
Are you located by a major street or intersection which cars frequently travel? Does your backyard look out onto a highway? Road noise is an important nuisance to consider.
Additionally, land is important. Ensure you have enough property for your needs.
Look at the topography of the land. Does your driveway have a steep slope? This is an important issue to consider for accessibility in winter weather.
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