Did you know it’s unacceptable to have lots of people staying in your room or to have people staying in your room regularly without the permission of the accommodation provider?

It’s important to respect the housing rules and boundaries both at the University and in private housing for several reasons:

1. Respect for Others: Everyone deserves their personal space, and staying in someone else’s room can feel like an invasion of their privacy.  Having lots of people staying with you can also annoy other residents.
2. Rules of the Residence: Many student accommodations have strict policies about room assignments to ensure safety and accountability.
3. Avoids Confusion: Staying in a room not assigned to you can lead to misunderstandings or disputes with roommates, housemates, the University or property owners.
4. Fire Hazards: If the accommodation provider does not know you have visitors, they cannot make sure everyone is out of the building if there is a fire.
5. University Rules: As per our Residents Guide, The University reserves the right to limit the frequency of guests or to prevent certain guests from staying in accommodation where we have reasonable grounds to believe that this is necessary for the safety and/or wellbeing of other residents.

Situations to Avoid

• Overnight Visits: If you have friends staying over get permission from the accommodation provider.
• Unauthorised Stays: Using a vacant room without permission might seem harmless but could violate housing policies.

What You Can Do Instead

1. Discuss Issues: If you’re having trouble with your current room or roommates, talk to your landlord, Residential Advisor, or accommodation manager. They’re there to help.
2. Group Get Togethers: For group activities use facilities on campus like the Library, Students’ Union, Dining Room and the Chaplaincy Community Hub to avoid causing friction between housemates.

Staying Safe and Comfortable

• Be Open: If you’re unsure about any rules, ask! It’s better to clarify than assume.
• Set Boundaries: If someone else tries to stay in your room without permission, kindly remind them of the rules and discuss it with the Residential Living team or private housing manager if necessary.
• Build Good Relationships: Being friendly and communicative with your roommates or neighbours can make living together more enjoyable and avoid misunderstandings.

By following these simple tips, you’ll help maintain a positive living environment for yourself and others!

Advice and Guidance

• UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) accommodation advice
• 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the free Student Assistance Programme can provide housing concerns advice
• Student Services at the University can be contacted by email: studentservices@chester.ac.uk and by phone: 01244 511 550