UNC offers resources for students living off campus

Students living off campus don’t have to face their problems alone.

Two UNC departments and the town of Chapel Hill provide a variety of resources, ranging from help with neighbors to advice on leases.

Off-Campus Student Services

After redefining part of its mission two years ago, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life and Community Involvement is now a resource for all students living off campus.

Director Aaron Bachenheimer said the office fields questions, gives advice and refers students to other groups that can help with specific problems.

“We do a lot of resource directing for student questions,” he said.
Residents living in the community can even approach the office about issues with student neighbors.

The office then works with the Chapel Hill Police Department to visit the students and to discuss being a good neighbor.

“Our office is an intermediary between those two people,” Bachenheimer said.

He also said it is important for students to build relationships with their neighbors.

“There’s just such a benefit to not only living in a home, but also living in a community and a neighborhood,” Bachenheimer said.

The office also helps educate students who are thinking of moving off campus.

“Do your homework, so you can make an informed decision about living off campus.”

Student Legal Services

If students have an issue with a landlord or lease, they can come to Carolina Student Legal Services for advice.

The department is funded by student fees and is otherwise free for students needing to consult with a lawyer.

“Our primary involvement is landlord-tenant, so we’re happy to read leases or represent students in landlord-tenant disputes,” said Dorothy Bernholz, director of student legal services.

She said students should inspect their apartment before moving in, be aware of their legal rights as a tenant and give written notice to their landlord every time they have a problem.

“We’re happy to give preventive legal advice if they have any questions,” Bernholz said.

Tar Heel Citizen Times

The town sends out a newsletter each month while school is in session to students living off campus.

The newsletter, called the Tar Heel Citizen Times, provides students with tips on how to live in the community.

“It has helpful information about university and town regulations and job and volunteer opportunities,” said Megan Wooley, housing and neighborhood services planner II for the town.

Contact the desk editor at university@dailytarheel.com.