Caring for the Unit, Damage and Vandalism | Students

Residents are financially responsible for any damages, vandalism, missing items, or unsatisfactory conditions within their room, suite, apartment, or common areas. Knowingly or recklessly damaging, destroying, defacing, or tampering with University property, public property, or another person’s private property is strictly prohibited.

Residents are not charged for reasonable wear and tear that results from everyday living. Examples include:

  • Small scuffs or marks on walls and floors
  • Naturally worn finishes on furniture or fixtures

These changes are expected over time and are considered part of normal occupancy.

 

Examples of Damage Beyond Normal Wear and Tear

  • Walls: Stripped paint, torn wallpaper, excessive holes, large holes, or deep marks.
  • Carpets: Tears, burns, stains, blotches, or persistent odors.
  • Floors: Deep scratches, gouges, or other significant damage.
  • Furnishings: Missing or broken lighting fixtures, damaged or broken furniture.
  • Windows and Doors: Cracked or broken glass, damaged hinges, missing or broken doorknobs.
  • Pest Issues: Flea infestations requiring professional treatment.
  • Appliances: Damaged stove burners, broken refrigerator compartments, or non-functional appliances due to misuse.
  • Bathrooms: Broken fixtures, cracked mirrors, missing tiles, clogged drains, or drainage issues caused by misuse.

 

  • All damages—whether intentional or accidental—must be reported to Columbia Residential as soon as they occur.
  • Unreported damages will be considered the joint responsibility of all residents in the unit.
  • Repair or replacement costs will be charged to the student accounts of the responsible individuals.
  • If responsibility cannot be determined, costs will be equally shared among all residents of the room, suite, or apartment.

Residents may be charged for costs including, but not limited to:

  • Replacing or repairing furnishings, appliances, or fixtures that have been altered or removed without written approval from Columbia Residential.
  • Additional cleaning required after move-out.
  • Cleaning violations requiring corrective action by Columbia Residential.
  • Removal of abandoned items left behind after move-out.
  • Repairs and restoration beyond normal wear and tear.

 

Columbia Residential encourages residents to maintain their living space with care and to report issues promptly. Doing so helps ensure timely repairs and may prevent additional charges.