Living in a Non-College Community
Adjusting to life outside of a dorm can be both exciting and challenging. Unlike campus living, where resources are centralized, independent living requires proactive problem-solving. Here are key tips for living on your own:
- Read your lease, noting maintenance responsibilities and emergency contacts.
- Learn tenant rights in your area to handle disputes or repairs (Get Renters Insurance if renting!)
- Introduce yourself to neighbors—friendly rapport goes a long way.
- Be mindful of shared spaces and noise, especially at night.
- Address issues politely before involving management or police.
- Document recurring disturbances before reporting.
- Keep an emergency kit: flashlights, shelf-stable food, phone chargers.
- Identify someone nearby you can stay with during extended outages.
- Limit fridge/freezer use during outages to preserve food.
- Use flashlights (not candles) for safety.
- Keep a spare key secure or with a trusted friend.
- Know your building’s lockout policy and potential fees.
- Ask the leasing office/maintenance for help during business hours.
- Consider a smart lock or keyless entry system if allowed.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and practice basic safety.
- Save emergency contact (police, maintenance, etc.) in your phone.
- Consider installing allowed security measures like motion lights or doorbell cams.
- Join neighborhood social media for updates and alerts
- Engage in community events or volunteer to build relationships.
- Keep a list of reliable local services—doctor, mechanic, handyman.
- Read through emails from Swarthmore Alumni Relations and attend those events!
This guide was put together by John Bera from Public Safety as apart of the Adulting 101 Series.