Off-Campus Living

The University of Scranton is proud to be part of the historic Hill Section and the City of Scranton.  Its students are members of both the University community and the local community.  The information provided below includes: the University’s expectations, student obligations and landlord duties.  The University seeks to promote effective resolution of any problems or concerns and to help foster positive neighborly relationships.  

University Expectations
Student Obligations
Duties of Owners of Rental Units
Get to Know Your Student Neighbors
How to Report Problems

University Expectations

The University of Scranton considers it essential that students exhibit respect and concern for the dignity, well-being and property of members of the local community. Students are expected to be respectful, truthful and fair in their dealings with others and to act in ways that are truly supportive of the ideals on which the University is founded.  The Student Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for all students.

The Division of Student Affairs at the University has created a Living Off-Campus in the City of Scranton Guidance Sheet that outlines University expectations for students, explains University policies, and lists local laws and ordinances relevant for both students and landlords. This sheet is distributed at off-campus information sessions conducted each spring.

Student Obligations

All University students are obligated to be exemplary citizens at all times. Excessive or unreasonable noise, the illegal use and/or sale or distribution of alcohol or drugs, excessively large parties, and/or disrespect for neighbor and community are incongruent with students’ obligations.

Duties of Owners of Rental Units

  • Arrange for inspection of unit  
  • Arrange for or perform maintenance, cleaning, repair, pest control, snow and ice removal, and garbage removal  
  • Ensure compliance of premises with applicable codes  
  • Maintain premises in good repair, clean and sanitary conditions, and compliant with applicable codes

For additional information on the duties of owners and tenants, see the City of Scranton Code.

Get to Know Your Student Neighbors

  • Introduce yourself and create a sound relationship.  
  • Exchange cell phone numbers to be able to address concerns directly.   
  • Invite students for a social gathering. 
  • Alert students to unusual behavior near their apartment during the semester and particularly over University breaks. 

How to Report Problems

Criminal behavior must be reported to the Scranton Police Department (SPD) at 570-348-4141 (or in the case of an emergency dial 911). The SPD has agreed to share incident reports with University officials. 

To alert the University to disruptive behaviors, call the Office of Community Relations during business hours at 570-941-4419 or Public Safety at 570-941-7777 during off hours. 

The University's jurisdiction in disciplinary matters extends to conduct that occurs on the premises of the University and to any conduct that adversely affects the University community, the University's reputation and/or the pursuit of its mission and objectives regardless of where it occurs.

The University reserves the right to refer off-campus students involved in disruptive behaviors, to the Office of Student Conduct for disciplinary action. If found responsible, students will be subject to University sanctions and provisions up to and including suspension and expulsion from the University.

We want to hear from you!  Questions? Your concern not addressed here?  Contact the Office of Community Relations at 570-941-4419 or community@scranton.edu. 

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