Please use this checklist to help you decide about the security/safety of the off-campus housing you are considering. Visit the neighborhood during the day and at night.
Check the following items:
Exterior:
Are the buildings and grounds well maintained?
Are the grounds manicured?
Are common areas neat? Is trash lying around?
Are the entryways, sidewalks, and parking areas well lit? Are they visible from the street?
Are the residents' names (first and last) printed on the mailboxes?
Are the mailboxes lockable and in good condition?
Parking:
Are the parking lots and surrounding streets free of abandoned cars?
Is available parking close to your door?
Is there room to park closer to your door at night and on weekends?
Doorways/ Windows:
What kind of security is at the entrance?
Does your property door have a peephole?
Can police or passersby see the entryway?
It should be well lighted at night.
Are the doors and windows easily visible and not obscured by trees and bushes?
Are curtains, shades or blinds provided?
Do the doors and windows have sturdy locks?
The windows should also have key locks.
The door should have hinges on the inside, not the outside.
The door should have a deadbolt lock. Chain locks and knob locks are not sufficient.
The door should fit tightly in the frame. No more than 1/8" clearance
Other Considerations:
Are the laundry doors locked?
Does the apartment complex provide security services such as security patrol? Safety escort?
Does the policy on lending keys protect your security?
Talk to your prospective neighbors. Do they feel safe?
What does the local police department say about the rate and type of crime in the neighborhood?
Is the turnover rate relatively low? A high turnover may indicate problems.
Do you know your roommates' security habits?
No matter how careful you are, your property won't be secure if your roommates leave the door unlocked.
If you have any further questions after completing this checklist, you may call your local police crime prevention officer.
In an emergency, always call 911!
Never put ID tags on your key ring/holder. If thieves get your keys, they will find your home easily.
SAUCON VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT
Dial 911 for Emergencies
Non-Emergency: (610) 282-3064
Fax: (610) 282-0345
Police Department Headquarters
5500 Camp Meeting Road
Center Valley, PA 18034
Business Office Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday Through Friday
Robert E. Coyle, Chief of Police
The Upper Saucon Township Police Department operates out of the Township Municipal Building located at 5500 Camp Meeting Road. The Department is comprised of 17 full-time officers (two of whom are investigators), one K-9 unit, a Police Clerk and a Chief of Police. In addition to 24-hour patrol services and crime investigation, the Department participates in a regional DUI task force, sponsors a local D.A.R.E. program and oversees a community service program for first time juvenile offenders.
Off-Campus Housing & Transportation Contact
Tom Dubreuil
Director of Student Affairs
[email protected] | 610-285-5021
Penn State University Housing Disclaimer
The Pennsylvania State University makes no representation whatsoever regarding the housing or the landlords listed through this office/site. The properties listed are done so at the request of the landlords to assist students in locating possible off-campus housing opportunities. Students are responsible to inspect the property and negotiate lease terms with any landlord. The Pennsylvania State University has not inspected or investigated these listings or landlords in any way and is not endorsing any specific properties or landlords for students by this listing. The Pennsylvania State University disclaims any responsibility, among other things, for the condition of any premises, terms of any leases, treatment by any landlord, or compliance with any applicable local zoning ordinances.