Guide to On-Campus Living

Document Purpose

The purpose of this document is to provide information about the Office of Housing & Residence (HRL), the policies and procedures associated with living on campus at Catawba College, and the various residential communities. This document is supplementary to all other College policies and expectations, including but not limited to those found on Catawba College’s website.

General Policy Statement

This document outlines the primary policies and procedures for residential living at Catawba College. However, it is recognized that not every situation or policy can be anticipated or addressed in this handbook. Therefore, any policy or situation not specifically covered in this document shall be handled at the sole discretion of the Division of Student Affairs. The Division of Student Affairs reserves the right to make decisions and take actions in the best interest of the residential community and the College. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of all students, addressing unforeseen circumstances, and adapting to evolving needs and challenges. The Division is committed to maintaining a supportive and dynamic living environment that fosters personal growth, academic success, and community engagement.

Any questions or concerns related to these guidelines can be brought to the Dean of Students

HRL is centrally located on the 1st floor of the Cannon Student Center in the Student Affairs Suite. HRL is open between 8:30AM and 5:00PM, Monday-Friday. You can contact us in person, by phone at 704-645-4547, or by email at housing@catawba.edu. After hours, an on-call HRL professional staff can be reached for urgent matters by contacting Public Safety at 704-637-4000.

Director of Housing & Residence Life (DHRL): The Director of HRL is responsible for the overall leadership of all College residences and the Residence Life program and serves as the Chief Housing Officer (CHO). The DHRL is accountable for the effective delivery of residential student services by working with various campus departments to maintain quality housing and residential communities. Additionally, the DHRL oversees the planning of residential operations and improvements; the development of policies, programs, procedures, and assessment; manages the departmental operating budget; and supervises all professional and paraprofessional staff.

Associate Director of Housing & Residence Life (ADHRL): The Associate Director of HRL provides leadership for the residential experience, including recruitment, selection, training, and supervision of Resident Assistants and Area Coordinators. The role oversees residential programming, and the implementation of a residential curriculum aligned with institutional goals. The Associate Director also ensures compliance with departmental policies, fosters partnerships across campus, and contributes to strategic planning for Housing and Residence Life.

Assistant Director of Housing & Residence Life (ADHRL): The Assistant Director of Housing & Residence Life provides leadership for the daily management and strategic planning of housing services, ensuring efficient operations that enhance the residential experience. This includes oversight of room selection and housing assignments, occupancy management, as well as coordination of summer and conference housing functions. The Assistant Director partners closely with Facilities to address maintenance and space needs and develops and maintains the housing application process.

Area Coordinators (AC): The Area Coordinators are responsible for fostering safe and supportive residential communities. The ACs are professionals who live in college residences to provide optimal supervision, response, and guidance to their residential communities. ACs directly supervise 12-16 student staff members called Resident Assistants. In conjunction with the DHRL and ADs, the ACs share the responsibility of serving the campus as on-call administrators for after- hours/weekend emergencies and other issues that warrant professional response outside of normal business hours.

Head Resident Assistants (HRAs) and Resident Assistants (RAs): All College residence halls are staffed by student staff members called Resident Assistants. RAs are trained paraprofessionals who live in residential communities alongside their fellow students. RAs serve as a resident’s first point of contact for concerns and questions. RAs are current students who apply and are selected by HRL professional staff to provide guidance and leadership to other residential students.

RAs spend a significant amount of time getting to know residents on an individual basis in addition to working to bring students together to create a positive community. RAs have not only experienced the day-to-day problems and anxieties that students may encounter, but they have been specifically trained to help residents handle these issues. RAs are available to help students adapt to college living and learning environment. RAs provide peer guidance for many common issues students struggle with including time management, community living, and personal problems.

RAs also organize activities that give residents opportunities to meet and interact with others. We encourage residents to participate in programs and events on campus that will help them grow socially, academically, and culturally. RAs are committed to helping residents achieve the best college experience by keeping them connected to positive and fun opportunities on campus and in the surrounding community.

Housing contracts between residents and Catawba College are for both the fall and spring semesters, covering a nine-month period. Residence Halls and satellite housing typically open in August during the week prior to the start of classes. Housing closes on the last day of final examinations each semester. Graduating students may remain in housing until after the commencement ceremony.

Students who need to arrive early or remain after the official closing date for approved reasons such as athletics, academic requirements, or other authorized circumstances will receive communication in advance from the appropriate college official. Other early arrival or late stay requests will be reviewed by Housing and Residence Life on a case-by-case basis.

All residence halls and satellite housing are closed during the break between the fall and spring semesters when classes are not in session. Students needing to remain in housing during this period must complete the Winter Break Stay Request Form by the published deadline. Exceptions will be granted only for approved circumstances, including athletics, academic requirements, or other situations authorized by Housing and Residence Life.

Students must vacate their assigned space within 24 hours after completing their last scheduled examination or by the official closing time and date of the residence halls, whichever comes first unless prior approval has been received from Housing and Residence Life. During times when residence halls are closed, entry by residents without approved permission is prohibited. Guests are not permitted within the residence halls during official closure periods.

The Director of Housing and Residence Life and/or his/her designee coordinates room assignments:

• Each upper-class student may select a roommate during housing selection each Spring.
• Incoming new students may indicate a roommate preference, but are not guaranteed this preference, during the summer prior to matriculation.
• The Office of Housing and Residence Life has the right to assign students to vacant spaces in rooms at any point during the academic year.
• Students must proceed through Catawba College’s Student Clearance Process before they are permitted to move into housing.

Room Consolidation

The Office of Housing Residence Life reserves the right to consolidate rooms, or to change a student's room assignment when necessary; room charges will be adjusted accordingly when students refuse to consolidate rooms, and the refusing student will be charged for the cost of a single room.

Room/ Roommate Changes

Roommate changes are not automatic. During the first three weeks of each semester, room changes will not occur, unless in extenuating circumstance; this will allow Residence Life staff time to identify available space in each residence hall and encourage residents to give ample time to adjust to their roommates.

• Students with roommate conflicts should first discuss the situation with their Resident Assistant and then with the Area Coordinator of the building.
• Relocating is only an option after open communication occurs between roommates and when the problem is deemed not solvable while continuing the roommate relationship.
• Students may be asked to participate in mediation or conflict resolution with Residence Life staff.
• Only in exceptional cases will students be allowed to move or change roommates before the third week of each semester.
• It is the residents’ responsibility to formally check out of their rooms ANY and EVERY time they vacate a room (i.e., to switch rooms, at the end of the year, etc.)

Single Room Policy

Our campus provides limited access to single rooms by design. When spaces are available within traditionally double occupancy rooms, the Housing and Residence Life team can decide to allow double occupancy rooms to be occupied by one individual (Non-traditional single rooms).

In general, non-traditional single rooms may be assigned/made available:

• For documented serious medical reasons, medical documentation [from a medical doctor, on office stationery] is required and needs to be renewed each academic year. Requests are granted based upon the availability of single rooms; priority consideration will be given to requests made, with necessary documentation, three months prior to the start of the
• After room consolidation at the beginning of each academic semester as space

Other Situations that may lead to a student having a Non-traditional single room:

• Students whose roommate became a Resident Assistant during the semester, the resident will not be charged a single-rate supplement for the remainder of that semester. If the resident does not have a roommate for the following semester, the resident will be charged a single rate or consolidated.
• Students removed from their rooms because of a Student Conduct violation will be automatically charged the prorated single supplement for the room to which they are moved.
• Students who have roommate conflicts, and need to move to resolve those conflicts, will be charged a single rate from the day they are moved, if they move to a single room, and the applicable rate for the building to which they The process for conflict resolution must be followed first, prior to any move. Moving is a last effort to resolve these types of personal conflicts.
• Other situations will be addressed individually, as they arise, either by the Dean of Student Affairs, Director of Residence Life, and their designee.
• ALL moves from one building to another, or from one room to another, must first be approved by the Area Coordinator of the building(s), and the Director of Residence Life. Fines and Room Damage Costs will be assessed for violations of this Students who purchase a single room must pay the single room rate for that building. It is the responsibility of each student to check with the Office of Residence Life to obtain a list of students available for roommates.

The Off-campus Residency Application provides students with the ability to request to reside off-campus for the following exceptions after they have signed a housing contract:

• The student is a graduate student.
• The student is a Catawba College Online student.
• The student is married.
  Include a copy of your marriage license.
• The student is a parent with custody of your child (children).
  Include a copy of your child’s birth certificate.
• The student has documented medical circumstances that cannot be accommodated on campus.
  Include a legible official letter from your physician on office letterhead detailing the effects and limitations of your condition and why campus accommodations will not benefit your health should be submitted to the Disability Services. Disability Services will review the documentation and notify Housing & Residence Life of any recommended accommodations. .catawba.edu/disabilityservices.
• The student lives within a 25-mile driving distance of Catawba College and will be residing at the home of a parent or legal guardian.
  Include a driver’s license or state ID which lists the home address from which you intend to commute.
• The student is twenty-four years of age or older.
  Include a copy of driver’s license or birth certificate to verify age.

If approved, students will be required to update their address with the Registrar’s Office.

Rare exceptions to this policy may be granted by the Director of Residence Life or the Dean of Student Affairs. The college reserves the right to enforce any restrictions or regulations necessary for the general welfare of residents and/or the maintenance of its property.

To request to live off campus, please visit catawba.erezlife.com.

All students living in the residence halls are required to participate in a residential student meal plan. Residents living in Hood are allowed to be on a commuter student meal plan. Meal plans are for use by the assigned student and may not be sold, transferred, or used by others.

Costs associated with the meal plan will not be refunded due to lack of usage by the student. In rare cases, students with dietary needs stemming from medical necessity may be offered an exemption from mandatory enrollment in a meal plan; such requests will start with Disability Services who will review the documentation and notify Housing & Residence Life of any accommodations. catawba.edu/disabilityservices

Residential students can choose from the following meal plans:

• Unlimited Plan: The Unlimited Plan includes unlimited meal swipes per week in the dining commons and $100 Flex Dollars per semester.
• 14 Plan: The 14 Plan includes 14 meal swipes per week in the dining commons and $175 Flex Dollars per semester.
• 10 Plan: The 10 plan includes 10 meal swipes per week in the dining commons and $225 Flex Dollars per semester.

Campus Dining Services is located in the basement of the Cannon Student Center and offers meals throughout the day during the academic semester in the main dining hall and Blue 51. All campus dining is managed by Catawba Dining, operated by Chartwells, the College’s contracted food services provider. Students must present their Student ID at the dining area entrance to access their meal plan. If a student does not have their ID, they must either manually enter their ID number at the check-in computer or pay using another method (e.g., debit or credit card).

Catawba Dining is committed to providing high-quality, nutritious meals and is dedicated to accommodating students’ dietary needs and health-related restrictions. Students with special dietary requirements or those needing to arrange to-go meals due to illness should contact Catawba Dining directly at 704-637-4400 or speak with a manager or supervisor in the dining hall.

Additional information about dining services, including menus and hours of operation, is available online at catawba.edu/dining.

Laundry rooms are available for all residential students in the College residence halls, with washers and dryers provided at no cost—no coins or electronic payments are required.

The washing machines are High Efficiency (HE) models, and only HE detergent is allowed. The use of bleach is strictly prohibited. Machines must be used solely for their intended purpose and in accordance with the instructions posted in the laundry room. Residents are not permitted to use the washers for dyeing fabric or any commercial purposes.

Laundry facilities are exclusively for the use of students assigned to the corresponding residential area unless prior permission is granted by HRL. Residents are strictly prohibited from installing personal washers or dryers in their rooms or apartments.

Laundry machines are contracted out through a vendor, CSC. Mechanical failures of laundry equipment should be reported to CSC immediately. Information regarding how to report can be located in each laundry facility.

Important Notice: Catawba College and the Office of Housing and Residence Life are not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen laundry or related items. Students are encouraged to set designated times for doing laundry and to remain with their belongings while in use to help ensure their safety.

All registered full-time undergraduate students are assigned a numbered mailbox, which they will keep for their entire stay at Catawba. Full-time undergraduate commuters also have a campus mailbox — and should check it periodically.

How to Get Your Mailbox Information

To view your mailbox number and combination:

1. Login to My Catawba
2. Under the "Academics" tab, scroll down to the “Housing & Mailbox Info"

Mail: USPS delivers mail daily to Catawba College. Mail is sorted immediately and placed in student mailboxes. Since students are not notified when they get mail, they should regularly check their mailboxes.

Packages: Packages are received in the mailroom throughout the day from UPS, FedEx, DHL, Amazon, etc. Once a package is received, it will be scanned, and a notification email stating you have a package to pick up will be sent from mail services. After you receive this email, you may come to the mailroom to pick up your package. Please bring your Catawba ID, as we will not release packages without ID verification. If you need someone else to pick up your package, please email mail services and provide the name of the person who will be picking it up.

*Note: You may get notified from the carrier that your package is delivered or on its way, but to be sure your package has arrived and is in the mailroom, please wait till you have received the email confirmation referenced above.

Student Mail-Addressing Information

When addressing mail to students, please use the layout below indicating the student’s box number (i.e., Box 123). Do not use ‘P.O. Box’ or ‘Post Office Box’ in the address. Please see below for an example of how to properly address your mail:

Your Name
2300 W Innes St
Campus Box #
Salisbury, NC 28144

When residents discover something in their room is damaged or not working properly, residents should submit a work order. Residents should include a thorough description of the damage/concern(s) and photos that support the description.

Residents can expect to receive a response to their request within three business days, however, please note the completion could take up to seven business days depending on the work that needs to be completed.

By taking responsibility for reporting maintenance issues, residents contribute to the timely and efficient resolution of problems, helping to maintain a comfortable and safe residential environment for everyone.

For any issues requiring immediate attention, residents should visit the Office of Student Affairs during business hours or call Public Safety at 704-637-4000 after business hours and on the weekends. Facilities will respond promptly to maintenance emergencies (power outages, leaking water, etc.) regardless of the time of day.

All residential students are required to register their vehicle with the Office of Public Safety prior to bringing it to campus. Registered residential students are permitted to park only in designated residential parking areas, which include:

• Salisbury-Rowan Hall Lot
• Corriher-Linn-Black Library (Rear Parking Lot)

Parking in any lot not designated for residential student use may result in a parking citation and/or the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense. Students are responsible for knowing and following all campus parking regulations as published by the Office of Public Safety.

View Parking Map

College Housing policies are designed to help create a safe and appropriate living environment for all students. Residents and their guests are expected to abide by the policies and residents are responsible for understanding the policies established by HRL and Catawba College. Students are expected to actively participate in keeping our campus community safe. Every resident is responsible for their actions and those of their guests. Residents and guests must comply with the directives of college staff including HRL staff, Public Safety, and community emergency staff while on campus. If you have any questions about policies or procedures, please contact HRL staff.

Responsibilities of Key/Keycard Holders

All keys and keycards (Student ID cards or temporary cards encoded for door access) need to be used safely and responsibly. Residents are not permitted to duplicate or provide access (temporary or permanent) to their keys or ID/Keycards to any other individuals. All keys must be surrendered at the time of check-out.

Students living in residence halls with main entry or exit doors are not allowed to prop up the doors or allow entry to anyone who is not their escorted guest or a resident of the building. Main doors in enclosed residence halls are locked 24 hours a day for residents' safety and security.

Residents are expected to secure or report any unsecured doors. It is each resident's responsibility to ensure that they do not allow non-residents and/or persons who are not their guests access to their residence hall; doing so is a violation of campus policy and such students will be subject to conduct action.

Students found responsible for jeopardizing the security of a living area by circumventing security systems (such as forcing open locked doors or propping open doors) are subject to conduct action, including but not limited to full cost of repair to the security system. Housing and Residence Life staff and/or Public Safety officer are available to help a student gain access to their residence hall building and/or room when the resident may not have their keys with them.

Key Return

Keys must be returned to the Resident Assistant or Area Coordinator upon leaving the College or within 24 hours of vacating the room. If keys are not returned, the student’s account will be billed for a lock change.

Lock Outs

If you are locked out of your room between 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday, you should visit the Office of Housing and Residence Life, and a staff member will take you back into your room. After 5pm and throughout the weekend, you should contact Public Safety.

Alcohol is permitted only in private rooms where all assigned residents are 21 or older. It is prohibited in all common areas, including hallways, lounges, shared kitchens, patios, and other public spaces. Anyone present in a space where alcohol is being consumed must be at least 21, and residents are responsible for ensuring their guests follow all College policies and state laws.

Storage and Disposal

Alcohol may only be stored in the private bedroom of a resident who is of legal drinking age. In shared apartments with underage residents, alcohol must not be stored in common areas or shared appliances. Empty containers should be promptly recycled or discarded in designated bins, and alcohol-related items—such as bottles, cans, or promotional signs—may not be displayed in windows, on doors, or in public view.

Prohibited Items and Behaviors

Devices for rapid consumption (funnels, etc.), drinking games, kegs, and other large or common- source containers are not allowed. Any behavior that promotes excessive or irresponsible drinking, including participation in drinking games, is prohibited.

Host Responsibilities

Residents hosting gatherings where alcohol is present are responsible for guest behavior, confirming all attendees are 21 or older, and ensuring gatherings do not exceed occupancy limits.

All posters, flyers, etc. for events happening on campus must be approved by the Office of Student Affairs (with the exception of programs hosted by HRL staff).

Residents are not allowed to store or ride bicycles in their rooms, hallways, or stairwells.

Candles (with or without wicks) and incense are prohibited in all residence halls, including satellite housing and Hood.

Residents are responsible for keeping their rooms clean and in good condition. Any damage or deterioration beyond normal wear and tear will be billed to the student’s account at the end of the academic year. Housekeeping will regularly clean and remove trash from public bathrooms and common areas; however, residents are responsible for cleaning their own rooms. Students in suite- or apartment-style housing are also responsible for cleaning their own restrooms.

When moving out, all personal belongings must be removed, floors mopped, and the space left clean. A cleaning fee will be charged if rooms are not left in acceptable condition.

For safety, exits must remain clear at all times. Blocking doors, windows, or pathways is prohibited, as it may prevent safe evacuation in an emergency.

Health and Safety Inspections will be conducted regularly to ensure compliance with cleanliness and safety standards. These inspections are intended to maintain a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for all residents.

Residents are expected to be respectful of others’ right to sleep, study, and enjoy a comfortable living environment at all times. Courtesy hours are in effect 24/7, meaning noise should be kept at a reasonable level and reduced immediately if requested by another resident or staff member.

Quiet hours are designated times when noise must be kept to a minimum to support academic success and rest. During quiet hours, conversations, music, and other sounds should not be heard outside your room or through walls, floors, or ceilings. Amplified instruments, loudspeakers, and other high-volume devices should be avoided.

All students in Campus Housing must adhere to the following "Quiet Hours":

• 10:00 PM to 9:00 AM Sunday evening through Friday morning (or during evenings proceeding class days)
• 12:00 AM to 10:00 AM Saturday morning through Sunday morning (or during evenings not proceeding class days)
• 24-hr Quiet Hours start at 5 pm the night before the first final exam and last until 5pm on the last day of exams. During Quiet Hours it is expected that noise be confined to individual living units (residence hall rooms and apartments). The noise in a room should not disturb neighbors sharing common walls.
• Quiet hours may be adjusted as needed to ensure the primary goal of facilitating and promoting the academic mission. Any changes must be approved by the Director of Housing Residence Life or their designee.

Residents are financially responsible for the condition of their assigned room and the common areas of their residence hall or satellite housing. Charges will be applied to a student’s account for any damage beyond normal wear and tear in their room or in shared spaces (e.g., hallways, bathrooms, lounges) when the responsible individual(s) can be identified. If no individual is identified, community damage charges will be shared among residents of the affected area.

Residents are expected to take care of their living spaces and report any damage or maintenance issues to facilities by completing a work order. Proactive care helps maintain a safe and pleasant environment for everyone and can prevent charges for damage or cleaning.

At move-out, rooms must be returned to their original condition, free of damage, excessive wear, and personal belongings. Failure to do so will result in cleaning, repair, or replacement charges.

Room Condition Report (RCR)

At check-in, residents will complete an initial room audit documenting the condition of the space and furnishings. Housing and Residence Life staff will review and verify the report’s accuracy. At the checkout, staff will complete a closing room audit to assess any new damage or missing items. Any unreported damage or missing furniture will be billed to the resident(s). A formal check-out process must be completed every time a student vacates a room, including room changes and end- of-year move-out.

It is the responsibility of the resident to formally check out of their rooms ANY and EVERY time they vacate a room (i.e., to switch rooms, at the end of the year, etc.) 

Individual Damage Charges

Charges for damage within a student’s room are based on differences between the initial and closing audits.

Community Damage Charges

Damage in common areas without an identified responsible party will be billed proportionally to all residents of that hall or section. These charges are not appealable. Students with information about community damage should report it to Housing and Residence Life or Public Safety to help identify those responsible and prevent shared charges.

Unclaimed Items

All personal belongings must be removed upon checkout. Students vacating assigned rooms lose the right to personal items left behind and will be charged a disposal fee. If appropriate, such items may be donated to local charitable organizations.

Items confiscated during Health and Safety Inspections must by the next break period, otherwise, they may be donated or discarded at the discretion of Housing and Residence Life. A disposal fee may apply.

Damage Appeals

Students who wish to contest a damage charge may do so through the appeal process outlined in the formal notification letter sent when charges are assessed. This letter will include instructions and deadlines for submitting an appeal.

Damage Repairs

All repair requests should be submitted promptly through the Housing and Residence Life work order system. Emergency repairs should be reported directly to Public Safety. Timely reporting helps prevent further damage and ensures repairs are completed efficiently.

To protect walls, doors, and furniture, nails, thumbtacks, tape, stickers, decals, or any materials that damage paint or wood are not permitted. Students may use non-damaging products, such as removable adhesive strips, to hang posters and decorations, provided they do not interfere with HVAC vents or fire safety equipment.

Ceiling coverings, partitions, or other materials deemed a fire hazard are strictly prohibited. Live trees are not allowed in residence hall rooms.

Decorations may not be placed on the outside of room doors, in hallways, or in windows with the intent to harm, provoke, or offend others. Any materials posted in public spaces are considered public displays and must align with the College’s mission and be approved by Housing and Residence Life staff.

Small, non-flammable decorations (e.g., wreaths, bows) are permitted on doors, but decorations that fully cover doors or are made from flammable materials such as paper or tissue are not allowed.

North Carolina state law and Catawba College policy strictly prohibit the use, possession, and distribution of illegal drugs and associated paraphernalia. The misuse of prescription medication or other substances in or around residence hall and apartment communities is also prohibited and will not be tolerated. Anyone found in violation of this policy may face criminal and/or disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from College Housing.

Catawba College does not recognize medical cannabis cards, and the use of cannabis for any purpose is strictly prohibited in residence halls, apartments, and on campus. Residents who use sharps containers or need assistance with disposing of medical waste are encouraged to contact Catawba College’s Health Services for guidance.

For more information on medical waste disposal, please refer to the Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines.

For further information on controlled substances, illegal drugs, and associated paraphernalia, please consult the Student Guides & Policies page.

Throughout the year, floor or all hall meetings may be called. All students should attend scheduled meetings, especially those indicated as "mandatory." Students who miss a mandatory floor meeting are responsible for obtaining the information that they missed by contacting their Resident Assistant or Area Coordinator directly.

Catawba College is committed to ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for all residents through comprehensive fire safety awareness, education, and compliance. Participation in evacuation procedures is mandatory for all residents, regardless of alarm frequency, and failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal from residence halls. Unannounced fire drills will be conducted in all residences at least five times per year, and evacuation procedures are posted in each residential area. During fire drills, HRL and Public Safety staff may enter rooms to verify that all residents have evacuated.

Prohibited Behaviors

To maintain fire safety in all residential areas, the following actions are prohibited for all students and guests:

• Setting fires intentionally
• Falsely reporting a fire
• Removing or discharging fire extinguishers without cause
• Tampering with or disabling fire safety equipment (e.g., smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, fire alarms)
• Failing to evacuate immediately upon hearing a fire alarm
• Disrupting fire evacuation or investigation procedures
• Propping open stairwell, exit, or other safety doors
• Obstructing corridors, stairwells, or public areas with personal belongings
• Using or possessing candles, incense, or any item that produces open flames or embers
• Using space heaters or halogen bulbs/lamps
• Using or possessing appliances with exposed heating elements, except those explicitly allowed
• Installing portable air conditioners
• Using non-UL rated electrical devices
• Using electrical equipment in any way other than its intended use
• Hanging items on doors, windows, or their frames that impede exit
• Covering more than 25% of any wall or ceiling in a bedroom or common area
• Covering fire system equipment or bringing live trees or combustible decorations into residential facilities

Prohibited Items

The following items are considered fire hazards and are prohibited in all college residences:

• Air Fryers
• Electric Skillet
• Toaster Oven
• Oil Popcorn Popper
• George Foreman Grill
• Gas or Charcoal Grill
• Curtains (unless flame retardant)
• Lava Lamp
• Space Heaters
• Ceiling Fans
• Halogen Lamps
• Hover Boards
• Scooters
• Electronic Skateboards
• LED Light Strips
• Waterbeds/Mattresses
• Candles (ceremonial, decorative, or display)
• Incense
• Hookahs
• Fireworks
• Incandescent Bulbs
• Extension Cords

This list is not exhaustive. HRL, Facilities Management, and Public Safety reserve the right to determine additional items prohibited due to fire safety concerns. HRL staff may remove any appliance or device deemed dangerous or misused.

Maximum Occupancy Limits

To maintain safety, the number of occupants allowed in each space is as follows:

• Double-occupancy bedroom: Each resident of the room can have two guests with a maximum of 6 occupants at any time.
• Single-occupancy bedroom: Each resident of the room can have two guests with a maximum of 3 occupants at any time.
• Apartment & Houses: Maximum number of residents assigned to that unit plus two guests each

Evacuation Procedures and Expectations

Evacuation procedures are posted in each residence hall. In the event of a fire alarm:

• All residents must promptly evacuate to the designated assembly points outside the building and remain there until they receive an all-clear signal.
• Tampering with or blocking smoke detectors, sprinklers, or fire alarms is strictly prohibited
• Residents are encouraged to report any malfunctioning fire safety equipment to HRL or Public Safety immediately.
• Failure to evacuate a building in the event of a fire may result in a fine as well as disciplinary action as deemed necessary by the Office of Student Conduct.

Resident Responsibility and Reporting Violations

Residents are responsible for ensuring that they and their guests comply with all fire safety policies. Residents are also encouraged to address fire safety violations when observed and to promptly report any violations to HRL staff.

For the safety, comfort, and wellbeing of all residents, sports and recreational activities are not permitted inside housing rooms, hallways, lounges, stairwells, or other common indoor areas. This includes, but is not limited to, activities such as hockey, soccer, frisbee, skateboarding, rollerblading, dribbling or throwing balls, wrestling, water or snowball fights, and weightlifting outside of designated fitness areas.

Residents should inform the staff of illness, injury, or accidents so that they can see that proper medical attention is received, and that notification is given to the Health Center (catawba.edu/health) to determine if a student’s health may place others at risk (et. flu, hand to mouth foot disease) and may need to be quarantined. If it is determined a student is at risk, the student will be expected to move from their room and remain in isolation and will be excused from class and dining services, until a medical professional determines the student is not contagious. A Residence Life professional will make sure that food is delivered to the student while the student is quarantined. Please consult your personal physician if you have any questions. The Health Center is located in the Cannon Health Center. If the Health Center is unavailable, contact the Dean of Students. The nurse’s office is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Inappropriate Material

Pornographic or X-rated materials, including movies, literature, and videos, are strictly prohibited in all residence halls and apartments.

Politically focused materials must follow specific guidelines: While such materials is permitted to be visible to a bystander looking through a window, placing such materials within 2 feet of exterior-facing doors, internal and external hallways, breezeways, windows, or other areas that could impact the residential community is considered passive solicitation by HRL and is strictly prohibited.

Culturally insensitive or offensive materials are also not permitted under any circumstances. Residents are prohibited from displaying inappropriate or objectionable content on doors, internal and external hallways, breezeways, windows, or other areas that could impact the residential community.

HRL staff have full authority to require the immediate removal of any materials they determine to be inappropriate for a residential community or room.

Residents in halls with community kitchens are expected to use the privilege with care and consideration. Students using community kitchen areas are responsible for cleaning the area and any appliances or utensils they may use. Food left in community refrigerators may be disposed of without notice. If kitchen areas are not kept clean, the privilege will be revoked. RAs in buildings with kitchens may set up a cleaning schedule to ensure regular and proper cleaning of these areas.

Catawba College will make every reasonable effort to protect residents' personal property but is not liable for items that are lost, stolen, or damaged due to fire, water, heat, or natural disasters. Residents are strongly encouraged to review their or their parents' homeowner’s insurance policy and/or consider purchasing renter’s insurance to cover potential loss or damage to personal property. For more information regarding the limitation of college liability, please refer to the Housing License Agreement.

Pets are strictly prohibited in all residence halls and apartments, with the exception of non- carnivorous aquarium fish in a 20-gallon tank. Violations of this policy may lead to dismissal from on-campus housing.

Residents with approved medical documentation or as required by law may request service animals or assistance animals from Disability Services (catawba.edu/disabilityservices). However, these animals must not display aggressive behavior, create nuisances, pose sanitation issues, be of certain breeds, be larger than 35 pounds, and/or threaten the safety of others. Animals that violate these guidelines will not be allowed to remain on campus.

Guests are also prohibited from bringing pets into college residences. If a pet is not promptly removed as directed by HRL staff, Public Safety or animal control services may be contacted to resolve the situation.

Report any theft immediately to the Office of Public Safety. The Dean of Student Affairs will also be notified. The College does not assume responsibility for personal property kept at the College.

ALL STUDENTS SHOULD:

• Keep room doors and windows locked whenever the room is left unoccupied, even for short periods of time.
• Clearly mark all personal items with a personal identification number other than your social security number.
• Record serial numbers/make of stereo, computers, in a separate, secure location.
• Not keep large amounts of cash or other valuable items (such as expensive jewelry) in a residence hall room.
• Subscribe to private insurance for belongings that may be damaged and/or stolen during student’s time in campus housing.
• Students are encouraged to make sure their personal property is covered by Information concerning available insurance coverage can be obtained from the Student Affairs office.

Students living in college residence halls and apartments can expect reasonable privacy in their rooms and personal belongings. However, to provide efficient service, HRL and other College staff may enter and inspect rooms to make needed repairs or take corrective action considering health and safety concerns under specific circumstances. These circumstances may include but are not limited to:

• Emergencies such as floods, fires, broken/damaged HVAC systems, etc.
• Necessary building repairs such as replacing windows, flooring, structural, electrical, plumbing, etc.
• Health and safety inspections (the sight or odor of smoke of any kind, the sight of alcohol or illegal substances, the sight of a weapon in the room, a tip or a report from a reliable source that alcohol, illegal substances or a weapon are in the room)

The College reserves the right to inspect and search individual rooms if there is reasonable cause to believe the occupant possesses prohibited items or is in violation of college regulations or local, state, or federal laws. Rooms and apartments may also be entered and inspected for inventory purposes, fire protection, sanitation, safety, maintenance, and policy enforcement. These rights are exercised with care and discretion.

For non-emergency health and safety inspections, at least 24 hours' notice will be provided. While it is recommended, residents are not required to be present during inspections or maintenance. During fire drills, compliance checks may necessitate entry to ensure all residents have evacuated. If a resident is not present, HRL staff will aim to enter with another staff member or a resident whenever possible.

When a student is not present in their room at the time of a needed entry, the following protocol will be followed to ensure proper notice and respect for the student’s privacy:

Knocking and Announcing:

• College staff will knock on the door.
• College staff will state their full name, their position, and the reason for their visit.

Allowing Time for Response:

• College staff will pause for at least 20 seconds to allow time for a response. If there is no response, staff ill knock again, more loudly, and repeat steps 1 and 2.

Final Notice Before Entry:

• On the third round of knocking, College staff will state loudly, “Keying In” before unlocking and entering the room.

Leaving Documentation:
After completing the visit, College staff will leave a note in a visible location within the room. The note will include:

• The full name and position of the individual(s) who entered
• The date and time of entry
• The specific reason for the entry
• Any actions taken or observations made during the entry

Optional Follow-Up Communication:

• If/when appropriate, College staff may follow up by sending an email to the resident(s) to ensure they are aware of the entry and need for follow up entry to complete a work order.

Emergency or Urgent Situations:

• In case of emergencies or urgent situations (e.g., fire alarms, health or safety concerns, or suspected danger), immediate entry may occur without following the above steps. In such cases, residents will be notified of the entry as soon as possible through both written and electronic communication.

If violations of college policies or HRL Community Standards are observed during inspections, the residents of the room or apartment, as well as any visitors, will be documented. The college official may immediately seize and remove any or all material, which, by its presence, constitutes evidence that a violation of college policy has occurred. Such removal does not require express permission on the part of the room occupant(s). The college reserves the right to confiscate, retain, and dispose of any and all illegal, dangerous, or prohibited items, regardless of value or ownership. Residents found in violation of the Room Condition and Sanitation Policy will receive a notice detailing the required corrective actions and a deadline for compliance. Failure to take timely corrective action may result in charges for any cleaning or repairs deemed necessary.

Window screens must always remain installed, and permanently sealed windows must stay closed to maintain energy efficiency and ensure safety. Throwing objects from windows, balconies, or landings is strictly prohibited. Additionally, clothing, banners, flags, or lights may not be hung or displayed on the exterior of buildings without prior written authorization from HRL. Personal items are not allowed on outside windowsills, balconies, landings, ledges, or porches. For safety and maintenance reasons, students are strictly prohibited from accessing ledges for any purpose.

Students and their guests are strictly prohibited from conducting any for-profit business activities within college residence halls. Additionally, HRL resources may not be used for personal financial gain, such as cryptocurrency mining.

Door-to-door solicitation of funds, products, or services is not allowed in college residences. If a student wishes to invite someone to demonstrate or sell items in residential areas, they must first obtain permission from HRL.

Fundraisers sponsored by campus organizations are allowed in residential areas only with prior authorization from the HRL. Any unauthorized or disruptive solicitation should be reported to HRL staff immediately.

Residents are not permitted to smoke in any residential facility. Smoking is only permitted on campus in designated smoking areas. Smoking of tobacco or other products, as well as use of electronic cigarettes/vapor pens, and hookahs is prohibited within 50 feet of all College buildings. Areas where smoking is prohibited include all bedrooms, apartments, lounges, stairwells, fully/partially enclosed walkways/corridors, and elevators.

Cannabis in all capacities and subsequent paraphernalia is prohibited from being in the residence halls and on-campus.

Each residence hall has one or more outdoor dumpsters available to residents for refuse. Smaller trash receptacles located in and around residences are available for pedestrian trash only and should not be used by residents to remove large amounts of trash from their rooms. Residents are expected to properly remove trash from their rooms and apartments on a regular basis.

“Visitation” applies to any person who does not live in the residence hall they are visiting. Visitors may be other Catawba students living in different halls, off-campus students, family members, or other approved guests.

Catawba College’s Visitation Policy serves three primary goals:

1. Community Safety and Privacy – to protect the safety, security, and privacy needs of all
2. Developmentally Appropriate Engagement – to provide first-year and upper-class students with experiences that promote responsible decision-making and respect for community
3. Protection of Minors – to limit potential risks and uphold the College’s responsibility in fostering safe environments when minors are present.

These goals support Catawba’s mission of providing a supportive, growth-oriented community where students can develop responsibility, intellect, and character.

ALL VISITATION POLICIES ARE GOVERNED BY THE FOLLOWING PRINCIPLES:

• The rights of a roommate are respected at all times. A roommate’s right to privacy and comfort takes precedence over visitation If visitation causes conflict, residents are expected to resolve the issue together or seek assistance from Residence Life staff. If unresolved, a room change may be considered.
• Residents who provide access to non-residents (guests or otherwise) may be held accountable for violating policy and jeopardizing building safety and security.
• Residents are responsible for the behavior and actions of their guests at all times, including overnight guests.
• All visitors must be escorted by their host at all times while inside the residence hall.
• Due to campus safety needs, Catawba College may restrict visitation access at certain Official notification will be sent to students if restrictions are in place.

Traditional Visitation Hours:

• Sunday through Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – Midnight
• Friday & Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.

Cohabitation

Cohabitation is defined as the consistent presence of a guest who spends a day/night or longer period of time in a student's residence hall room. Visitors of the same or opposite gender found to be a consistent presence, regardless of time of day, in a room not their own, will be considered to be engaged in cohabitation, and the host and student(s) involved will be subject to conduct review through the Office of Housing & Residence Life.

Visitation – Minors in the Residence Halls

Full-time enrolled undergraduate students under the age of 18 may reside in campus housing and are held to all residential policies. Non-student visitors/guests under the age of 18 are not permitted in the residence halls at any time without prior, specific permission from the Office of Housing Residence Life (and, if applicable, the Office of Admissions). Hosts are responsible for ensuring compliance with these guidelines. Any visitors who are below the age of 18 must be requested in writing and approved at least 48 hours in advance by the Office of Residence Life.