2026-2027 Housing License Agreement

Table of Contents

Approval Date: January 16, 2026

Introduction

This Housing License Agreement (this "Agreement") is a binding agreement between the University of New Haven (the "University") and the undersigned student (the "Resident"). By entering into this Agreement, the Resident is granted a revocable license to occupy University-owned or University-operated housing for the limited purpose of participating in the University's residential and educational programs. This Agreement and the housing described hereunder is incidental to the University's provision of educational services and shall constitute a license and shall not be deemed to create or constitute a lease or tenancy, nor confer any right, title, or interest in real property. 

In certain instances throughout this Agreement, the terms "student", students", "residents" and the like may be used.  Unless the context dictates otherwise, the intent of the University and the Resident is that the Resident be included within and bound by the relevant terms and conditions of this Agreement.

Living on campus at the University is a privilege and an integral part of the student experience. Residential communities are designed to support academic success, personal growth, and meaningful connection. As members of these communities, Residents are expected to engage respectfully with others, share and negotiate the use of space, communicate openly with roommates, suitemates, and neighbors, cooperate with Residential Life staff, and comply with all University policies and procedures. Residents who fail to meet these expectations may be referred to the student conduct process and may be subject to administrative or disciplinary action. 

All residents share responsibility for fostering an environment that promotes learning, well-being, and mutual respect through the safe and respectful exchange of diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas. While the University values open expression and personal freedom, conduct that undermines the safety, dignity, or rights of others is not tolerated. Residents who breach the trust placed in them by the University community will be held accountable for their actions. 

The University is committed to maintaining a community free from unlawful discrimination and harassment. Harassment, including bullying and bias-based conduct, will not be tolerated. Residents are protected by the Student Code of Conduct   and applicable Connecticut and federal laws addressing discrimination and harassment. Pursuant to the Student Code of Conduct , not every action that may be perceived as offensive will constitute harassment or a policy violation. In situations where conduct does not rise to the level of a formal violation, Residential Life may nonetheless pursue appropriate educational or restorative interventions consistent with the University's values. 

The University does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its education or employment programs and activities on the basis or an individual's race, color, ethnicity, religious creed, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability (including learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and past or present history of mental illness), veteran's status, prior conviction of a crime, workplace hazards to the reproductive system, gender identity or expression, or membership in any other protected classes as set forth in state or federal law.  

1. Definitions

The following definitions apply to the Agreement 

Communication: An electronic mail (email).  The University uses an email system as the official and preferred method of communication for the purposes of this Agreement. Residential Life is not responsible for email messages sent to a Resident's University email account that are not received by the Resident. Residential Life will notify residents of changes to the Agreement within two (2) days of the modification by means of a University email message and by posting the new information on the Residential Life website at: www.newhaven.edu/reslife.  

Commuter: Student who attends the West Haven campus and does not live in on-campus housing. 

First Year Student: Student who is a first time, first year undergraduate student at the University.  

Housing Process: Housing assignment processes held throughout the year that include Room Changes, Room Swaps, administrative moves, and consolidations.  

Online Housing Selection Process: There are various processes with respect to which students select their housing assignment. Students on the waiting list are not eligible to participate in these processes.  

Resident: Student approved to occupy on-campus housing at the University. Use of the term "Resident" refers to the specific student signing this Agreement.  

Transfer Student: Student who has been admitted to the West Haven campus from an institution other than the University.  

University Sponsored Off-Campus Program: Academic program for which a student receives University course credit and is outside a reasonable commuting distance from the West Haven campus. Programs include Study Abroad, internships, etc. 

2. Agreement Terms & Conditions

2.1 Agreement Eligibility

Subject to the other terms and conditions of this Agreement, University students are eligible to live in on campus housing. Exceptions to eligibility include students removed from on-campus housing through the student conduct process and students dismissed from the University for academic reasons, the latter of which are not eligible for residence on the University campus for one semester. Students dismissed from the University for academic reasons who are readmitted after one semester may apply for and become eligible for on-campus housing. If returning as a non-degree student after one semester, students are not eligible to live on-campus and are only eligible to apply after having lived off-campus for two semesters. Being eligible to live on campus does not equate to a housing guarantee.  

Priority is given to full-time degree seeking students. Residents who change from full-time to another status during the term of this Agreement period are not relieved of their responsibilities under this Agreement. Violation of any part of this Agreement can result in the removal from housing.  

2.1.1 Convictions, Pending Charges, or Removal from Housing: On-campus housing may be denied to students with a criminal and/or behavioral history, including prior receipt of disciplinary sanctions at another institution which resulted in expulsion, suspension, or removal from University housing. Students must share this information on the housing application (or via email to reslife@newhaven.edu if after submitting the housing application) and submit the following information via email or in writing to the Director of Residential Life: 

• Detailed statement of explanation; and,  
• Include first/last name, Student ID, and contact information in the correspondence.  

Once the statement of explanation is reviewed, applicants will be contacted regarding eligibility.  

2.1.2 Students who have an outstanding balance (Bursar hold) relative to their student account or health hold may be prevented from participating in any Housing Process, including but not limited to, housing selection, or room changes. Students who are not registered academically are not eligible to reside on campus. The University reserves the right to deny residency to any student with an outstanding balance or Bursar hold, or students who are not registered by August 1 or January 1. 

2.1.3 Students who decline housing or who are released from their housing agreement forfeit any guarantees for future on-campus housing.  

2.1.4 This Agreement, and the rights and obligations set forth herein, may not be transferred, assigned, sublicensed, and/or reassigned, in whole or in part.  Any purported transfer, assignment, sublicensing and/or reassignment in violation of the terms and conditions hereof shall be null and void.

2.1.5 Providing false or misleading information constitutes grounds for the University to terminate this Agreement.  

2.1.6 Connecticut state law requires that all students residing in on-campus housing maintain a current meningitis vaccination as a condition of occupancy in the University's residence halls. Documentation verifying vaccination compliance must be submitted through the University's designated online health portal in order to reside on campus during the academic year. Failure to comply with this requirement may impact a student's eligibility for on-campus housing. Additional information regarding the meningitis vaccination requirement and instructions for submitting documentation can be found at: https://mycharger.newhaven.edu/health-services/requirements-and-forms/.

2.2 Duration of Agreement & Dates of Occupancy

This Agreement is effective upon the University's acceptance of an application for on-campus housing, as evidenced by a Communication from the University. It is binding for the entire academic year (or portion then remaining) following acceptance by the University.  The Resident, except as set forth in Sections 7.6 and 7.7 below, cannot terminate this Agreement. Failure to check-in does not release a student from the financial obligations for on-campus housing. Similarly, not returning mid-year does not release a student from the remainder of the Agreement. An additional charge will be assessed for residents who occupy housing outside the established occupancy periods.  

2.2.1 Academic-Year Residence Halls (all on-campus housing locations other than Atwood and Park View): The occupancy period for newly admitted first-year students begins on August 20, 2026 and concludes on December 16, 2026 for the Fall 2026 semester. The occupancy period for all other residents begins on August 21, 2026 and ends on December 16, 2026 for the Fall 2026 semester. Residents who will not return to their assigned space for the Spring 2027 semester are required to vacate their assignment and return all issued keys by December 16, 2026, in accordance with published closing procedures. For the Spring 2027 semester, newly admitted students begins on January 18, 2027 and concludes on May 12, 2027. The occupancy period for all other residents begins on January 19, 2027 and ends on May 12, 2027 for the Spring 2027 semester.  

2.2.2 University Commons (Atwood & Park View). The occupancy period for University Commons residents begins on August 1, 2026, and concludes on June 30, 2027. Residents who will not return for the Spring 2027 semester are required to vacate their assignment and return all issued keys by December 31, 2026, in accordance with published closing procedures. Residents assigned to University Commons may remain in their assigned space during all academic break periods without additional housing charges. However, University Commons does not operate as twelve-month housing. Residents may not remain in their assigned space beyond June 30, 2027. Students who require housing after this date must apply separately for Summer Housing and will be assessed for additional fees at the published summer housing rates. All residents, including those intending to return to University Commons for the following academic year, are required to fully vacate their space and remove all personal belongings by June 30, 2027. Belongings may not be stored in the University Commons over the summer period. 

2.2.3 Residents are not entitled to on-campus housing outside the established occupancy periods (i.e., Early Arrivals, Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, Spring Break). If housing is available and approved by the University outside the established occupancy period, additional fees may apply.  

2.2.4 Residents agree to vacate their assigned room and officially check out by the date/time the residence halls close or within 24 hours upon: 

• Loss of status as an enrolled student;  
• Failure to register for credit course work by the add/drop date;  
• Upon completion of their final exam; or 
• Effective date of cancellation or Agreement Release. 

2.2.5 Students who, pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, are released from or cancel this Agreement at the conclusion of the fall semester are required to vacate their on-campus housing assignment by the designated closing date and time, as specified in Section 2.2.1 or 2.2.2, as applicable. No portion of the fall semester housing fees will be refunded under any circumstances.  

2.2.6 When a student is removed from on-campus housing due to the student conduct process, this Agreement is terminated immediately, and no room or board fees will be refunded. If applicable, any cancellation fees outlined in Section 7.6 (Cancellations) will be assessed following the final outcome of the student conduct process. Students removed from housing may apply for on-campus housing after the completion of the sanctioned removal period; however, such application does not guarantee housing and will place the student on the housing waiting list, subject to availability and all applicable eligibility requirements. 

3. University Responsibilities

3.1 The University will provide a room accommodation to the Resident for a period of one academic year or the portion of the academic year remaining when occupancy begins (limited to the subsequent fall and spring semesters) exclusive of the Winter Break period unless the Resident is assigned to a facility that remains open during this time or is approved by the University in writing to live on-campus during Winter Break. Services provided by the University begin on the official check-in dates for the specific housing location and include access to the assigned building and room.  

3.2 In accordance with University policy, the University will provide staff that will help facilitate a living experience that complements the academic mission of the University.  

3.3 Subject to the availability of resources and excluding interruptions caused by unanticipated weather events, building system failures, or other circumstances beyond the University's control, the University will provide basic utilities to University-operated student housing, including electricity, water, sewer, heat, and internet service. Student rooms will be furnished as determined by the University. Under no circumstances shall the University be required to abate room fees, issue refunds, or otherwise be liable for any interruption, reduction, or suspension of utility services, regardless of duration or cause. Subject to applicable law, the University reserves the right to modify, limit, or discontinue the type, nature, or extent of utilities or furnishings provided to University-operated student housing as operational needs require. 

3.4 In the event of an unanticipated facilities issue (flood, power or utility outage), the University will provide a temporary assignment in a different residence hall to students impacted. Temporary spaces will provide heat, electricity and furniture and not necessarily be comparable to a student's permanent assignment. The University will provide timelines of temporary assignments and work to be performed to the students, as available. If the Resident has approved medical accommodation through Accessibility Resources Center (ARC), the University will make reasonable attempts to match those accommodations in the temporary assignment. Students will not be reimbursed or charged more for the difference in housing rates while in temporary housing.  

4. Resident Responsibilities

The Resident agrees to pay all fees specified, to observe all rules and regulations of the University and to abide by the Student Code of Conduct  , this Agreement and any addendum, as well as other University publications/policies. Residents assume total responsibility for their room/suite/apartment/house and for the behavior and activities which occur within all assigned living areas. Applicants and/or residents cannot exchange money or favors for a room assignment. Failure to fulfill the terms of the above may lead to termination of this Agreement, removal from on-campus housing, and/or a community standards process resulting in a sanction, including but not limited to expulsion.  

5. Rates & Payments

Room and board fees are approved by the Board of Governors no later than the end of the spring semester preceding the applicable academic year (i.e., the 2026-2027 room and board fees will be/were approved by the Board of Governors prior to the end of the spring 2026 semester). Current room and board rates and related billing information are available at: https://www.newhaven.edu/about/departments/bursars/tuition/index.php. 

5.1 Newly admitted students are required to submit the University enrollment fee before gaining access to the housing application. The enrollment fee is a separate charge administered by the Admissions Office and is not applied toward housing costs. All students must, as part of their housing application process, submit a room deposit each academic year by the published deadline in order to be eligible for room selection or assignment. The room deposit will be applied as a credit to the student's University account toward housing charges and is non-refundable and non-transferable.  

5.2 Residential room rates and board charges are payable in full when the Resident's University fee bill is due to the University (usually August 1 for the fall semester and December 15 for the spring semester). Room assignments may be canceled by the University if the balance is not paid by the stipulated due date or if alternate payment arrangements have not been approved by the University Bursar's Office. In accordance with Section 6.2 below, this Agreement is not for a specific room assignment and in no event shall the specific assignment and/or any reassignment by the University be the basis for any refunds and/or release of the Resident from their financial obligations under this Agreement.  

5.3 Residents are not entitled to any refunds except if and as expressly set forth below. Returning keys to University staff and/or removing belongings from an on-campus room does not constitute the approval of a release from this Agreement.  

5.4 Parking is not included in residence hall fees. All students who wish to park on campus must apply for and purchase a parking permit through University Police, in accordance with University parking policies. Students issued parking permits for Atwood or Park View (University Commons) are required to park only in the designated parking spaces located behind Atwood. If designated spaces are unavailable, students must park in approved University parking lots as directed by University Police. Parking in non-designated or unauthorized areas at Atwood or Park View is strictly prohibited. Vehicles parked in violation of these requirements are subject to towing by the real property owner at the vehicle owner's sole expense, and the University is not able to intervene, prevent, or reverse towing actions taken by the property owner. Additional information regarding parking regulations, permit requirements, and designated parking areas is available at: https://www.newhaven.edu/parking. 

6. Room Assignment

6.1 Room assignments for students are made through an Online Housing Selection Process. Efforts are made to accommodate roommate requests when they are mutual and submitted within the publicized timeframe and per availability each semester. 

6.2 The Resident understands and agrees that this Agreement is for a room assignment determined by the University, not a specific room and/or any specific roommate(s).  

6.3 Directory information can be given out in accordance with University policy. The complete policy can be found at: https://www.newhaven.edu/about/departments/registrar/ferpa/index.php.

6.4 Students who require a specific type of living environment due to a documented medical or health-related condition must register with and formally request housing accommodations through the ARC. For newly admitted students, it is strongly recommended that accommodation requests be submitted no later than May 1 for the fall semester and December 1 for the spring semester to allow sufficient time for review and assignment. While the University makes reasonable efforts to implement approved accommodations, accommodations cannot be guaranteed and may be limited by the timing of approval, housing availability, and operational constraints. Returning students are required to renew housing accommodation requests annually in accordance with the deadlines and procedures published by the ARC. Failure to renew by the stated deadlines may result in delays or inability to implement accommodations. 

6.5 The University reserves the right to change a student's housing assignment when deemed necessary, including but not limited to, the following situations: 

• Consolidations utilized as an occupancy management tool;
• Reasonable cause to believe that the Resident has violated the Student Code of Conduct  , this Agreement, and/or any University policies;
• Unresolvable conflicts within a community;
• Facility maintenance (includes unresolved ongoing facility issues), renovations, and/or closing of a facility;
• Administrative or programmatic needs; and 
• Students occupying ADA accessible rooms may be relocated by the University if the ADA space is required for a student with accessibility needs.  

6.6 The designated occupancy of a room is determined by the University and may change at any time. If a vacancy occurs in a room, the remaining student(s) in that room should expect a new occupant at any time. Uncooperative or unwelcoming residents, including but not limited to residents who move their belongings into the vacant space, will be referred to the student conduct process which may result in loss of housing privileges, probation, suspension, and/or expulsion.  

6.7 Room Occupancy Purchase: After the fall/spring semester census date a Resident may apply for the right to purchase occupancy of the entire room for the remainder of the then current semester. The room occupancy purchase option is subject to the absolute discretion of the University and may not be offered every semester. All requests are subject to approval by the University in writing and acceptance by the requesting resident(s). In situations where there is a vacancy at a property with more than one room that shares common areas (by way of example and not limitation, a shared kitchen or bathroom), all of the relevant residents must agree to the Resident's exercise of their room occupancy purchase in order for the room occupancy purchase to be completed. Furniture will not be removed from any space after a room occupancy purchase is approved. A resident(s) who is not approved for a room occupancy purchase must prepare and maintain the room to receive a roommate(s) at any time.  The University will endeavor to notify the Resident in advance if another student has been assigned to fill the room.  

6.8 Occupancy of any room is limited to the resident(s) assigned to that room. As set forth in Section 2.1.4 above, the Resident may not transfer, assign, sublicense and/or reassign the license rights conferred under this Agreement to any other person or party. Only students with a housing agreement may occupy the relevant room/apartment. Overnight guests are limited (see Residence Halls Policies and Procedures ) and the Resident is responsible for their guests at all times. The University reserves the right to restrict the Resident from having guests and to require that the Resident's guests leave campus.

6.9 All room changes must be authorized by appropriate Residential Life staff. Unauthorized room changes, including between bedrooms within apartments/properties, may result in the loss of the room change privilege, additional charges, and/or disciplinary action. Students may not move out of or into on campus assignments without authorization of appropriate Residential Life staff.  

7. Housing Policies

7.1 To remain eligible for on-campus housing and to participate in any housing-related processes, students must meet all University-established deadlines, including timely submission of a housing application and payment of the required room deposit. Priority for on-campus housing is given to degree-seeking students. Non-degree-seeking students may be placed on a housing waiting list and will be offered housing only if space remains available after all degree-seeking students have been accommodated. Only students who are officially enrolled full-time, in good standing with the University, and eligible under University policy may reside in on-campus housing. Students enrolled exclusively in a fully online academic program are not eligible to live on campus. 

7.2 Housing selection times are non-transferable. Students who are eligible to participate in the 2026-2027 Online Housing Selection Process cannot transfer/sell their eligibility to any other student.  

7.3 The University generally does not guarantee the availability of on campus housing for any period beyond the term expressly specified in this Agreement, provided, however, for First Year Students, on-campus housing is guaranteed for up to eight consecutive academic semesters, provided the student continuously remains enrolled full-time, is in good academic and disciplinary standing, meets all published housing deadlines (including participation in the Online Housing Selection Process when required), and fully complies with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and all University housing policies. This housing guarantee is contingent upon continued eligibility and availability and does not apply to students who lose housing eligibility at any time, fail to meet required deadlines, or are removed from housing for conduct or policy violations. 

7.4 Student Housing Eligibility

7.4.1 The list of students eligible for housing at the University's West Haven campus is, as of the date of this Agreement, limited solely to the following: 

• First Time Students who meet stated housing deadlines and eligibility criteria;
• Newly admitted Transfer Students who meet stated housing deadlines and eligibility criteria; 
• Subject to availability, continuing students who meet stated eligibility criteria in applying for the upcoming year;
• Continuing students returning from University Sponsored Off-Campus Programs who meet stated housing deadlines and eligibility criteria;  
• Continuing students who represent the University through participation in an athletic, department, or organizational capacity;  
• Non-credit and non-degree students who are participating in a University program (University exchange) and meet stated housing deadlines and eligibility criteria; 
• Students returning from military leave; and  
• Returning graduate/post-baccalaureate students.  

7.4.2 The list of students below will be placed on the on-campus housing waiting list if they submit a housing application. This list includes but is not limited to: 

• Readmitted students;
• Students who have been released from a Housing Agreement;
• Students who cancel their housing application and request to reactivate;
• Late applicants (students instructed to apply by a specific deadline to secure housing);
• Commuter students (students currently living off campus and seeking to live on campus);
• Newly admitted graduate students that have never attended the University;
• Non-degree and non-credit students not described in Section 7.4.1; and 
• Students that are non-compliant with any vaccination requirement. 

7.4.3 Students who are on the waiting list under any of the criteria set forth in Section 7.4.2, but have approved accommodations through the ARC for on campus housing will be considered first priority on the waiting list. Reasonable efforts will be made to meet accommodations of students who are being offered housing in collaboration with appropriate offices and based on space availability.  

7.5 Dining

7.5.1 Board fees are approved by the Board of Governors; however, the University reserves the right to make adjustments as appropriate, at any time during the term of this Agreement. Any adjustment will be communicated in writing to the Resident via University email.  

7.5.2 Except as expressly provided herein, all students residing in University-owned or University-operated housing are required to purchase and maintain a resident meal plan as a condition precedent to occupancy under this Agreement. Students assigned to Atwood, Park View, Savin Court, 20 Ricardo, or the Campbell Houses are exempt from the resident meal plan requirement; however, these students may purchase any meal plans offered by the University, subject to University Dining policies, published deadlines, availability, and the University's sole discretion. The University reserves the right to modify meal plan requirements, eligibility criteria, pricing, or availability at any time, and any such modification shall not constitute grounds for cancellation, refund, or release from this Agreement. 

7.5.3 A meal plan is not transferable. The Resident named on the University ID card must present the card in order to obtain meals or other food. The card may not be used by another individual and may be confiscated for improper use and/or result in disciplinary action.  

7.5.4 Residents who require a special diet should visit: https://newhaven.sodexomyway.com/en-us/explore/nutrition. 

7.6 Cancellations

7.6.1 If the Resident is a First Year Student or Transfer Student and enters into this Agreement and then desires to cancel their on-campus housing on or before June 15 (with respect to the succeeding fall semester), they may, without having to pay a cancellation fee, cancel this Agreement by written notice to the University delivered on or before to June 15, and receive a full refund of their room charges, less the housing deposit which will be forfeited in all cases, as it is non-refundable and non-transferable.  All Resident cancellation requests after June 15 (with respect to the succeeding fall semester) shall be subject to the terms of Section 7.6.6 below.

7.6.2 If the Resident is other than a First Year Student or Transfer Student and enters into this Agreement and then desires to cancel their on-campus housing on or before May 1 (with respect to the succeeding fall semester), they may, without having to pay a cancellation fee, cancel this Agreement by written notice to the University delivered on or before to May 1, and receive a full refund of their room charges, less the housing deposit which will be forfeited in all cases, as it is non-refundable and non-transferable.  All Resident cancellation requests after May 1 (with respect to the succeeding fall semester) shall be subject to the terms of Section 7.6.6 below.

7.6.3 If the Resident is a new student for the spring semester and enters into this Agreement and then desires to cancel their on-campus housing on or before January 10 (with respect to the spring semester), they may, without having to pay a cancellation fee, cancel this Agreement by written notice to the University delivered on or before to January 10, and receive a full refund of their room charges, less the housing deposit which will be forfeited in all cases, as it is non-refundable and non-transferable.  All Resident cancellation requests after January 10 (with respect to the spring semester) shall be subject to the terms of Section 7.6.6 below.

7.6.4 Notwithstanding the University's refund schedule, which permits a 100% refund of room and board charges if the Resident withdraws from the University during the first week of the semester (through the add/drop period), if the Resident has taken occupancy of, and/or placed their personal property in, their room and subsequently withdrawn during this period, they will be assessed a non-refundable administrative cancellation fee as follows: 

• Withdrawal from the university and proper move-out from the assigned room on or before the add/drop date for the applicable semester will result in a $300 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the room deposit.

7.6.5 The Resident's on-campus housing under this Agreement will be automatically canceled upon the occurrence of any of the following: transfer from the University; an approved medical or other University-authorized leave of absence; withdrawal or discontinuation from the University; or military activation. In such circumstances, room and board charges will be refunded, if and as applicable, in accordance with the University's published refund schedule. The University Refund Schedule may be found here: https://www.newhaven.edu/about/departments/bursars/refund-policy.php.

7.6.6 In any instance where the Resident cancels their housing after the date specified in the last sentence of Section 7.6.1, 7.6.2 or 7.6.3, as applicable, and also maintains enrollment at the University, subject to the terms of Section 7.7 below, they remain obligated in full for their financial obligations under this Agreement through the relevant semester (i.e., for the fall semester if the cancellation is described in the last sentence of Section 7.6.1 or 7.6.2, or the spring semester if the cancellation is described in the last sentence of Section 7.6.3).

7.6.7 If the Resident cancels their housing under this Agreement, they are not guaranteed on-campus housing in the future and will be automatically placed on the waiting list if they apply for on-campus housing.  

7.6.8 If the Resident is a resident assistant when they enter into this Agreement and then cease being employed as a resident assistant during the term of this Agreement, they remain eligible to remain on-campus during the term of this Agreement in room types and areas of campus deemed appropriate by Residential Life and, irrespective of whether they decline on-campus housing, are not subject to cancellation fees.  

7.6.9 Until the Resident has officially checked in to their assigned on-campus housing they may not occupy, access, or use any on-campus housing space in any capacity. Failure to complete the official check-in process or to notify Residential Life in advance of a delayed arrival by the add/drop deadline may result in cancellation of the housing assignment. In such cases, the Resident remains subject to all applicable cancellation terms under this Agreement, including forfeiture of the housing deposit and any other financial obligations that may apply. 

7.7 Agreement Release

7.7.1 The Resident may request a release from this Agreement, which is subject to the approval of the Housing Appeal Committee (the "Committee"), in the Committee's sole discretion. All requests to terminate this Agreement must be submitted in writing by completing a "Request for Release from On-Campus Housing" and submitted no later than 14 business days before the first scheduled final for the given semester. Requests will automatically be denied if they are not submitted in line with the requirements of this Section 7.7. A release will be granted only when the Committee determines that relevant circumstances are substantially different from circumstances as the time this Agreement went into effect.

7.7.1.1 In furtherance of 7.7.1, releases will be granted in the following circumstances:  

• Academic withdrawal or dismissal from the University, verified through Student Information System. Refunds are based on the University Refund Schedule. Students who applied for and were assigned to on-campus housing but withdraw from the University will be given 24 hours from the effective withdrawal date to officially check out of their room/apartment. After this 24-hour period, the resident will be charged a daily housing and meal rate (if the student has a meal plan) until they have officially checked out of the halls; 
• University approved affiliation with a University Sponsored Off-Campus Program for the relevant semester; and
• Graduation from the University.

7.7.1.2 In furtherance of 7.7.1, releases may, in the sole discretion of the Committee, be granted in the following circumstances:  

• Extreme, unanticipated financial hardship not present or known when this Agreement went into effect; and 
• Serious medical or health problems that cannot be accommodated successfully in any available on-campus living option.  

7.7.2 Supporting documentation must be submitted with the "Request for Release from On-Campus Housing" form. A release will only be granted if it is determined that the situation cannot be relieved by relocating the student to other on-campus housing.  

7.7.3 Reducing course load from full-time to part-time does not automatically constitute grounds for release from this Agreement. 

7.7.4 Residents who maintain enrollment yet move out of on-campus housing assignment without approval from Residential Life and a release from the Committee are liable for all room and board fees for the full term of this Agreement.  

7.8 Liability/Responsibility for Personal Property

7.8.1 The Resident is encouraged to obtain appropriate insurance and is responsible for protecting and securing any personal property located within any on-campus assignment. The University assumes no legal obligation to damage, theft, or loss of personal property, the risks of which are expressly assumed by the Resident.  

7.9 Damages & Upkeep of Facilities

7.9.1 The Resident is expected to reasonably maintain the assigned living space and common areas relative to order, cleanliness, and safety. The Resident will be held financially accountable for any damage, modification, or excessive cleaning required to their living space or furnishings therein and may be subject to disciplinary action. All repairs/replacement work will be initiated and accomplished by the University or its designee. If a room/common area/bathroom is found unsanitary during an inspection, the Resident may be billed for excessive cleaning, including the moving of student belongings or the removal of student belongings/trash left behind. When two (2) or more residents occupy the same room/apartment/floor/community and responsibility cannot be ascertained, the damage charge may be assessed among all of the residents, as the University determines.  

7.9.2 Writing, vandalism and alterations on/to doors or other surfaces is prohibited. If damages to the exterior surface of the room door occur due to vandalism, the Resident(s) must inform a hall staff member of the incident within 24-hours. This will enable the Resident to contest responsibility for the charges. If damages occur to common areas within the building, such as lounges, bathrooms, lobby areas and responsibility cannot be ascertained, the damage charge can be assessed equally among the residents in the floor/building.  

7.9.3 The Resident agrees that no alterations, repairs, or modifications will be made to the permanent structure and fixtures of the room, including but not limited to: walls, doors, furniture, bathroom facilities, windows, and other equipment in the room. Painting rooms, apartments, or any common area is prohibited. Self-adhesive LED light strips use a strong adhesive to adhere to the walls. When removed, it is very common for them to remove large portions of paint from the walls, which may result in damage charges when the lights are removed. Instead of using self-adhesive LED light strips, consider using painter's tape or other easily removable adhesive to hang them on walls.  

7.9.4 The Resident assumes responsibility for the daily care and cleaning of the room/apartment and its furnishings, and for maintaining acceptable sanitation and safety conditions. Periodic cleanliness (Health and Safety) inspections will be made. The Resident is responsible for cleaning common areas (e.g., shared kitchens, bathrooms, etc.), as applicable.  

7.9.5 The Resident agrees not to duplicate any issued keys. If a key is lost, the Resident agrees to immediately notify University Police at (203) 932-7014 and must pay all charges associated with key and lock core replacement. Key or access issues should be reported to reslife@newhaven.edu. The Resident is not permitted to borrow keys that have not been assigned to the Resident by the University or to give assigned keys to other individuals.  

7.9.6 Residents will be assessed a fee of $50.00 for each lockout, with one complimentary lockout provided per academic year. Residents who are locked out of their assigned space may request access by contacting the Office of Residential Life at (203) 932-7076 during regular business hours, or University Police at (203) 932-7014 after business hours. 

7.9.7 The Resident agrees to keep all maintenance closets and panels accessible at all times, where applicable.  

7.10 Check-In & Check-Out

7.10.1 Specific check-in information will be provided to all Resident students via the Residential Life website (www.newhaven.edu/reslife). A resident planning to check-in after the stated arrival period must notify Residential Life prior to the stated check-in time.  

7.10.2 Each Resident is given a room key or card access to the apartment/room, and electronic card access to the building through their Student ID card or a key to the outside/foyer door. Residents may receive additional keys within specific areas or campus, such as mailbox keys. Residents who lose their mailbox key, or fail to return keys upon vacating the room, will be charged accordingly. Keys cannot be returned through the mail.  

7.10.3 Residents who fail to follow proper check-out procedures, including the return of all issued keys, access cards, or devices, forfeit the opportunity to contest room damage charges. Residents will be billed for any lost, unreturned, or non-functional keys and for required lock changes or re-keying. Charges are assessed per affected door and vary by building and lock system. Fees listed below reflect the cost of re-keying locks, replacement keys, labor, and administrative processing. Charges apply per affected door, not per key, when re-keying is required to maintain building security. For purposes of this Agreement:

• "All" means all applicable doors and lock types associated with the Resident's assigned space, including but not limited to building entrance doors, suite or shared doors, and individual bedroom doors, as applicable to the building.
• "Suite" or "Entrance" refers to a shared door providing access to multiple assigned bedrooms.
• "Laundry" refers to a shared door providing access to laundry space for multiple residents assigned to a building. 
• "Bedroom" refers to the individual Resident's assigned sleeping space.

Residents will also be billed $25.00 per mail key if not returned.

7.10.4 Residents granted an agreement release/cancellation must follow check-out procedures and must remove all belongings. Failure to do so may result in a reduction of the refund if one is due or may result in additional housing charges.  

7.10.5 Residents forfeit any and all rights to any item left in the residence facilities at the end of the term of this Agreement, or when a student is no longer assigned to the space. All items will, at the University's sole discretion, be reused, donated or discarded. Any such items are deemed to NOT be abandoned property under Chapter 32 or lost and unclaimed property under Chapter 859 of the Connecticut General Statutes. In the event a Resident leaves their room in such a condition that it requires the attention of cleaning and/or facilities staff, a cleaning and/or repair fee may be assessed to the Resident.  

7.11 Room Entry/Inspection

Residential Life will strive to respect the privacy of the Resident. A goal of Residential Life is to preserve the health and safety of the Resident while maintaining an environment that facilities safety and scholarship. At times it may be necessary for University staff/affiliates to enter the Resident's room, or for University staff to escort non-University personnel to an apartment or residence hall room. Reasonable efforts shall be made to notify the Resident(s) in advance of any entry. The University's staff members will not enter the Resident's room without consent of the Resident except as follows: 

• Repairs, maintenance, building systems and building support inspections, facility improvements;  
• Recovery of University owned property not authorized for use in the assigned space;  
• Fire, health and safety, and cleanliness inspections made periodically, as well as at all closing/vacation periods;  
• When there is reliable information that an emergency exists (including but not limited to fire, accidents, sickness, or danger to the health and welfare of persons); and 
• When there is reliable information that a University policy and/or the terms of this Agreement are being violated. The University reserves the right to remove any items not in conformity with its policies.  

7.12 Lead Paint

Housing built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. Lead from paint, paint chips and paint dust can pose health hazards if not managed properly. Lead exposure is especially harmful to young children and pregnant women. Before renting pre-1978 housing, landlords must disclose the presence of known lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards in the dwelling as required by U.S. Law. At the University, several residence halls were constructed prior to 1978. In compliance with this act, this Section 7.12 is included to inform the Resident that the University has no knowledge of the presence of lead-based paint or lead-based hazards in these spaces.  

The Resident is directed to review a pamphlet, Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home, published by the EPA pertaining to lead-based paint hazards. Please contact the Office of Residential Life at (203) 932-7076 to obtain this pamphlet in a language other than English. The pamphlet is available in the various languages and can be downloaded from the EPA site: https://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-your-family-lead-your-home-real-estate-disclosure.  

8. Revisions

8.1 This Agreement is subject to revisions by the University. Residential Life will notify residents of changes within two (2) days' notice of the modification by means of a University email message and by posting the new information on the Residential Life website at: www.newhaven.edu/reslife. All such revisions shall be binding on the Resident from and after the Resident's receipt of the same, provided, however, no such modification will materially and adversely affect any of the Resident's rights or obligations under this Agreement.

9. General Terms

9.1 This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the internal laws of the State of Connecticut. 

9.2 The University assumes no legal obligation for damage, theft, or loss or personal property. The Resident is responsible for protecting and securing any personal property located within any on-campus assignment and is encouraged to obtain appropriate insurance.  

9.3 The University reserves the right to repossess student rooms and residence hall facilities in the event of an epidemic or other emergency as defined by the University.  

9.4 The University reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to modify, suspend, cancel, or otherwise adjust its programs, services, operations, and housing-related functions when circumstances arise that are beyond the University's reasonable control, including, but not limited to, fire; flood; severe weather; acts of God; war or acts of war; terrorism; civil unrest; riots; strikes or other labor disturbances; epidemics; pandemics; disease outbreaks; public health emergencies; or the acts, regulations, orders, or directives of any local, state, or federal governmental authority (each, a "Force Majeure Event"). In the event of a Force Majeure Event, the University shall not be liable for, nor deemed in breach of this Agreement due to, any failure or delay in the performance of its obligations arising from such event. The Resident shall not be entitled to a refund of tuition, housing charges, fees, or any other costs if University programs or operations, including but not limited to residential services, in-person classes, or activities, are modified, delivered through alternative means, suspended, interrupted, or canceled as a result of a Force Majeure Event. The University may temporarily suspend or terminate performance of any portion of this Agreement, with or without prior notice, if continued operation of Residential Life is determined by the University to be impracticable, unsafe, or non-feasible due to a Force Majeure Event or related conditions. 

9.5 University policies and policies of the Office of Residential Life, including the Prohibited Items List, can be found in Residence Halls Policies and Procedures , each of which are incorporated by reference and must be adhered to by all students. Prohibited items can be and will be confiscated by University officials.  

9.6 The Resident agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the University and its officers, directors, trustees and employees, in both their individual and official capacities, from and against any and all claims, losses, expenses, fees, fines, penalties, suits, damages, liabilities and costs of each and and every nature whatsoever (including attorneys' fees and costs of defense) relating to or arising out of the Resident's occupancy and/or breach of this Agreement.  

9.7 The Resident acknowledges and agrees that certain University housing locations are owned by third parties and that the University is not responsible to the Resident for the physical conditions that may be encountered at such properties. The Resident assumes all risks (and waives any associated claims against the University) related to such physical conditions, including without limitation, risks associated with use of any common areas and amenities at such properties, including but not limited to use of fitness areas and associated equipment at the Atwood or Park View properties and the pool at the Forrest Hills property, and any and all damage to property and injuries to persons in connection therewith.

10. Electronic Acceptance & Signature

10.1 This Agreement is provided to the Resident electronically through the University's housing management system and is executed in accordance with the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (15 U.S.C. § 7001 et seq.) and the Connecticut Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 1-266-1-286). By entering their Student ID number and selecting "Save & Continue" to complete the housing application, the Resident affixes an electronic signature and affirmatively consents to conduct this transaction electronically. The Resident acknowledges that this electronic signature has the same force and legal effect as a handwritten signature and constitutes acceptance of all terms, conditions, and provisions of this Agreement. By completing the housing application, the Resident represents and affirms that they have read, understand, and agree to be bound by this Agreement, and that they are of legal age and have the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract in their state of residence, unless otherwise indicated below. The Resident executes this Agreement on their own behalf and on behalf of their heirs, successors, representatives, and permitted assigns. 

10.2 If the Resident is not of legal age to enter into a binding agreement they are required to complete a parent or legal guardian proxy form as part of the housing application process. Completion of the proxy form constitutes the electronic signature and consent of the parent or legal guardian on this Agreement. By submitting the proxy form, the parent or legal guardian represents and affirms that they are the Resident's parent or legal guardian, that they have reviewed and understand this Agreement, including provisions that may impose financial responsibility, and that they consent to the Resident's execution of this Agreement and participation in University housing. The parent or legal guardian further agrees that their electronic acceptance is binding under applicable law, accepts responsibility for the obligations and acts of the Resident as described in this Agreement, and agrees, on behalf of both themselves and the Resident, to be bound by all terms and conditions herein, including without limitation each and every of the Resident's financial obligations set forth herein.