Posted 4 months ago
Tue 13 Aug, 2024 10:08 AM
House guests, visitors, mates, family - whatever you call them, you'll likely want to have people stay over in your flat from time to time (and there's nothing wrong with that!). If you're planning on having someone stay overnight then you'll need to sign them in via this online form. This is mainly so we know who we need to check for if there is an incident that causes us to evacuate your hall (e.g. a fire breaks out).
Understanding the rules for visitors
We have specific guidelines in place regarding visitors in halls, designed to balance the freedom to socialise with the need to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for all residents. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Overnight guests: You are allowed to have guests stay overnight in your room, but this should be for a maximum of three nights over a seven-day period.
2. Respect for flatmates: Before inviting guests, especially for overnight stays, it’s crucial to check with your flatmates. While your room is your private space, shared living areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms, can be impacted by extra people. Always consider how your guests might affect your flatmates’ comfort and privacy.
3. Frequency of visits: While occasional visitors are perfectly fine, frequent or prolonged stays can become problematic. The accommodation is your home, but it’s also home to others, and having someone around too often can disrupt the shared living experience.
Why these rules are in place
These rules are designed to ensure that everyone living in the halls has a comfortable and safe environment. Here are a few reasons why these guidelines are important:
1. Safety: Knowing who is in the halls at any given time is essential for safety and security. If there’s an emergency, the university needs to account for everyone in the building, including guests.
2. Comfort: University accommodation is designed to house a specific number of people. When additional guests are frequently present, it can lead to overcrowding, noise, and increased use of shared facilities, which might inconvenience others.
3. Respect for others: Living in a shared environment requires consideration for those around you. Regular or prolonged visits from guests can intrude on your flatmates' personal space and routine, leading to tension and fallouts!
What to do if a guest overstays or won’t leave
Sometimes, you might find yourself in a situation where a guest overstays their welcome, or you’re aware of someone in your halls who has had a guest staying for too long. Here’s how to handle these situations:
1. Speak up early: If you notice that a guest is staying longer than expected, it’s best to address the issue early. Have a polite conversation with the person who invited the guest and explain how the situation is affecting you or others in the flat. Often, a simple discussion can prevent any larger arguments down the line/
2. Consult your hall’s reception or the welcome point: If the situation doesn’t improve after talking to your flatmate, or if you’re uncomfortable addressing the issue directly, reach out to your hall’s reception or welcome point. They are there to help mediate and ensure the rules are followed. They can speak to the resident privately and enforce the accommodation guidelines if necessary.
3. Know your rights: Remember, you have the right to a comfortable living environment. If someone’s guest is causing significant disruption or if a guest refuses to leave, you should report the situation to your hall’s management team immediately. They will take appropriate action to resolve the issue.
If things are getting out of hand, you can always contact the ResX Social Responsibility team:
0115 748 7600
For more detailed information or specific concerns, always refer to the University of Nottingham’s official guide to living in halls, or speak to your hall’s support staff.
