Off-campus Student Services Newsletter: September 2023
![Four students walk down a path through an autumnal grove of trees.](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_news_main_image/public/2023-09/fall_0.jpg?itok=1Yd2Rl91)
Learn more about Off-campus Student Services.
Monthly Calendar of Events
7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday: New York's Past | Present | Future exhibition on view at the New York State Capitol
5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, September 12, 2023: Beverwyck Neighborhood Community Clean Up with Off-campus Student Services
11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, September 16, 2023: PearlPalooza in Downtown Albany
5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, September 16, 2023: Hispanic Heritage Celebration in the Empire State Plaza Convention Center
1:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 19, 2023: Roommate Mixer with Off-campus Student Services in Campus Center 138
7 p.m. Wednesday, September 20, 2023: Off-campus 101 with with Off-campus Student Services in LC 13
10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 23, 2023: Albany Book Festival in the Campus Center
1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, September 24, 2023: Weekly Pine Hills Clean Up with Off-campus Student Services
7 p.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023: Witch Perfect at The Egg
Visit the University Events Calendar for more ideas.
Know Your Tenant Rights
Right to Safe & Habitable Housing: Tenants have the right to live in a rental unit that is safe, clean and in good repair.
Anti-discrimination Rights: It is illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or familial status under federal and state fair housing laws.
Security Deposit Rights: Landlords must return a tenant's security deposit within a reasonable time after they move out and provide an itemized statement of any deductions.
Rent Increase: Appropriate notice must be provided based on the duration of the tenant's occupancy before raising the rent.
Protection from Retaliation: Tenants have the right to assert their rights without fear of retaliation or eviction by the landlord.
Right to Privacy: Landlords must provide reasonable prior notice (except in emergencies) before entering a rental unit.
How to Be a Good Neighbor
Friendly Introduction: Start by introducing yourself. A warm smile and a friendly "Hello" go a long way in building rapport.
Communication Matters: Open and respectful communication is key. Discuss any issues calmly and find solutions together. Establish a rapport with your neighbors that encourages them to openly discuss any concerns they may have before seeking assistance elsewhere.
Respect Boundaries: Respect your neighbors' privacy and personal space.
Neighborhood Safety: Look out for your neighbors. Report suspicious activity and stay prepared for emergencies.
Keep the Peace: Mind the noise, especially during quiet hours. Maintain your yard and keep it tidy for the sake of curb appeal.
Apartment Safety Tips
Secure Entry Points: Ensure all locks are in proper working condition.
Keep Your Apartment Well Lit: Ensure good lighting in common areas.
Know Your Neighbors: Build a sense of community.
Maintain Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Create a fire escape plan.
Maintain Your Apartment: Check for has leaks. Service appliances regularly. Ensure electrical safety.
Obtain Renters' Insurance: Renters' insurance offers protections for your personal possessions and tenant liability. It can sometimes be included as an add-on or endorsement to existing insurance policies, such as car insurance or your parents'/guardians' homeowner's insurance.
Communicate with Your Landlord: Maintain open lines of communication with your landlord or property manager.