Ball State University announced the launch of a new off-campus quality housing initiative program. The program aims to prioritize student welfare by highlighting property management companies and landlords who commit to an established set of practices related to off-campus accommodations according to the report.
“As an institution deeply committed to providing a holistic and enriching experience for our students, Ball State recognizes the crucial role that off-campus housing plays in the lives of our diverse and vibrant community,” T.J. Brecciaroli, associate vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students said. “Acknowledging the significance of positive business practices, and clean and well-maintained housing options, the Off-Campus Quality Housing Initiative endeavors to spotlight community partners who have committed to providing students with a suitable living environment.”
The program is a self-certification program allowing landlords or property management companies to be listed on the off-campus living website managed by Ball State.
Landlords and property management companies agree to criteria regarding to maintenance and upkeep of their properties.
The terms of the acknowledgment that landlords/property management companies must sign to participate in the program include, but are not limited to:
- Housing must be delivered to the tenants in compliance with the rental agreement and in clean, well-kept, safe, habitable condition, and ready for occupancy.
- Properties must comply with health and housing codes applicable to the premises.
- Messages from tenants regarding housing issues must be responded to within 24 hours or sooner in case of an emergency.
- All necessary repairs must be made in a reasonable and appropriate time frame while keeping the tenant(s) advised of the progress of those repairs.
- Landlords or property management companies must maintain electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems and appliances.
The complete list of requirements for landlords and property management groups can be found here; those interested can register for this opportunity for the 2023-24 academic year until Sept. 15, 2023. New registrations for the 2024-25 academic year will open on June 3, 2024, according to the report.