Students living in the community

Whether you’re living in University accommodation or not, having your own place offers greater freedom and independence, but it also comes with extra responsibility. Leicester is a great city to live in, but it’s important to remember that it’s not just students living here.

The area has residents living different lifestyles, all within close proximity, all of whom deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. By following the tips below, we hope you will settle into life in your neighbourhood and have a great time.

Say hello

Introduce yourself to your neighbours when you first move in. Get to know the people living around you so you will feel safe and involved in your area.

Keep the noise down

If you’re planning a party, let your neighbours know in advance. If playing music, please remember that your neighbours include professionals, young families and the elderly so be considerate. Keep the noise down by remembering to:

• Close your windows and doors
• Move your sound system away from the wall
• Be respectful between 11pm and 8am
• Agree a suitable end time with your neighbours
• Ask your guests to consider your neighbours when leaving – say your goodbyes inside, not outside

When you’re in your home, on your way out, or returning late at night, your neighbours don’t want to be woken up by shouting, slamming doors or noise.

Be considerate; your neighbours have the right to peaceful enjoyment of their home.

Be considerate when parking

If you have a car, be considerate about where you park it. Don’t block other people’s driveways or park in their spaces, and remember to ask your visitors to do the same.

Some areas of Leicester operate a parking permit scheme for residents, including an experimental scheme in Clarendon Park. You can find out which areas are in permit zones and apply for a parking permit on the Leicester City Council website.

Sort your rubbish out

Make sure you remember to put your bins out on the right day. Do it early so that you don’t miss the collection and make sure you bring your bins back in as soon as your rubbish has been collected. If you fail to bring your bin in, you could be fined. You can find out which day your rubbish will be collected by entering your address on Biffa’s website.

If your home has a garden you are also responsible for keeping it tidy and clear of rubbish. If you have any unwanted furniture, call the council and arrange for them to pick it up.

If you’re missing a bin, speak to your landlord immediately. Don’t leave your rubbish bags on the street as they could become a health hazard.

Look after your stuff

Take care of yourself and your possessions. We recommend that you insure your possessions against damage or theft, and consider the following safety advice:

• If your home has an alarm, use it
• Lock your doors and windows, even if someone is in
• Keep your laptop, car keys, phone and other valuables out of sight
• Register your property on Immobilise
• If your home is going to be empty, use a timer switch or leave a light or radio on and draw the curtains to give the impression that someone is in
• Don’t be an easy target. Burglars will look out for obvious signs of a student house

Look after yourself

Don’t take risks with your personal safety. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.

• Download our free safety app SafeZone, which allows you to alert University Security via your mobile phone if you ever need urgent assistance or first aid, or if you have an emergency while on campus or nearby. SafeZone is free and easy to download and can be found in your app store.
• Walk in groups using well-lit streets at night or use a taxi if you’re travelling alone (always use licensed taxis)
• Use a D-lock to secure your bike. These can be bought for £12 from shop.le.ac.uk and collected from the ECS Service Office on campus
• If you feel unsafe contact somebody. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or University Security, they can give guidance or support if you feel uneasy or unsafe at any point on your journey
• In an emergency situation always call 999

Join in

There are so many ways to become part of your new community. Join the local residents association, work on a community project, or find other volunteer opportunities.

Represent your university

Don’t forget that the community sees you as a member of the student population and the University. You are representing us at all times and any misbehaviour reflects badly on us.

Be responsible

If a neighbour complains to you about the noise you are making, or something else, be sympathetic to their concerns and take all reasonable steps to address the problem. If you receive a disruption complaint from the council or the University, don’t ignore it – you could end up with a criminal record.

Difficult neighbours?

Although rare, disputes between neighbours can happen. If you feel like you are being harassed by one of your neighbours, try not to retaliate as this can make the situation worse. Instead contact the University or the council.