Fred Smith Road House Guidelines

Purpose

This home is intended to provide a comfortable and respectful living environment while residents attend school. The goal of these guidelines is to ensure safety, protect the property, maintain good relationships with neighbors, and help roommates live together successfully.

The most important expectations in this home are communication, respect for roommates, and treating the property with care. If something breaks or seems wrong, residents are encouraged to communicate early so issues can be addressed before they become larger problems.

These guidelines are intended to establish reasonable expectations rather than restrict normal college life.

Safety

Residents are expected to maintain a safe living environment.

• Doors and windows should be locked when leaving the home.
• Smoke detectors and fire safety equipment must not be disabled or tampered with.
• Firearms or weapons are not permitted in the home.
• Cooking should not be left unattended and appliances should be turned off when finished.
• Residents must comply with Florida law regarding alcohol and other substances.

Guests

Occasional overnight guests are allowed.

• Guests staying more than one night should be communicated to roommates ahead of time when possible.
• Guests should not become regular occupants or effectively move into the house.
• Residents are responsible for their guests' behavior and any damage they may cause.
• Guests must follow the same house guidelines as residents.

Gatherings

Residents are welcome to host occasional gatherings.

• Gatherings should be discussed and agreed upon by roommates ahead of time.
• The house should not become a regular party location.
• Residents are responsible for ensuring guests behave respectfully toward neighbors and the surrounding community.
• Any complaints from neighbors should be addressed promptly.

Cleanliness and Shared Spaces

Residents are responsible for maintaining their own rooms and cleaning up after themselves in shared spaces.

• Shared areas should be kept in reasonable condition.
• Dishes and food should not be left in ways that attract pests.
• Trash should be removed regularly.
• Roommates should coordinate shared responsibilities for tasks such as trash removal and shared supplies.

A monthly professional cleaning service will help maintain common areas. Residents are still responsible for their own messes.

Groceries and Shared Supplies

Roommates should discuss and agree upon expectations for groceries and shared household supplies. Examples include:

• Groceries (shared or individual)
• Paper towels
• Trash bags
• Cleaning supplies
• Dish soap

These expectations should be documented in the Roommate Coordination Agreement.

Property Care

Residents should treat the home with the same care they would their own property.

• Smoking or vaping is not permitted inside the home.
• No alterations may be made to the home without prior approval from the homeowner. This includes painting, installing fixtures, mounting televisions, or modifying appliances.
• Cameras or surveillance devices that affect privacy may not be installed.
• Furniture and appliances should remain in the property unless approved.

Pets

• Pets are not permitted in the home, even temporarily.

Maintenance and Repairs

Communication is important when issues arise.

• Maintenance concerns should be reported promptly.
• Issues involving water, plumbing, HVAC, appliances, or electrical systems should be reported immediately.
• Residents should not attempt repairs themselves without approval.

Utilities

Utilities are provided with the expectation of reasonable use.

• Windows and doors should not be left open while air conditioning is running.
• Thermostat settings should remain within reasonable ranges.
• If utility usage exceeds the agreed threshold, residents may share additional costs.

Parking and Vehicles

Residents must follow all HOA and City of Tallahassee vehicle rules.

• Vehicles should not block roommates or neighbors.
• No vehicle repairs may be performed on the property.
• Vehicles must be operable and properly registered.

Smart Lock Access

The home uses a smart lock system.

• Access codes should not be shared outside of residents without approval.
• Residents should ensure doors are secured when leaving.

Communication

The expectation in this home is communication and respect.

If something breaks, stops working, or seems unusual, residents should notify the homeowner promptly so it can be addressed early.