One of the benefits of an urban campus is being surrounded by unique city neighborhoods to explore. Many Pitt students choose to make these neighborhoods their homes while in school.
If you’re considering moving off-campus, it’s imperative to do your research. You should consider safety and security factors of both the apartments you look at and the neighborhood itself.
- Walk or drive around the neighborhood to get a feel for the area.
- Use your network. Ask friends, coworkers, or Pitt staff about certain areas and their experiences with off-campus living.
- Ask the landlord. Refer to this renter’s checklist for ideas on what to ask regarding safety, security and other topics.
- Contact local police to obtain a crime report.
University-owned Apartment Housing
The University operates 432 apartment units in north and central Oakland and Shadyside. University-owned apartment housing is occupied almost exclusively by Pitt students, primarily by graduate and professional school students and their families. All multi-unit buildings have a paging system for visitors, and most front doors lock electronically. Pitt Police and/or city police patrol University-owned apartment housing areas.
The Pitt Police and the Pittsburgh Police regularly share crime information as it relates to University-owned apartment housing.
Safety Reminders
- Keep your outside doors locked (even when you are home). Ensure locks are changed by the landlord from previous tenant.
- Don’t advertise your class or work schedule.
- Never leave a note on the door saying when you will return.
- Lock your windows.
- If the property owner won’t replace cheap locks, ask if you can do so at your expense.
- Leave some lights on when you are gone.
- Use outdoor lighting to deter criminal activity.
- Install surveillance cameras.
- Properly secure windows with installed air conditioning units. Remove them in the winter.
- Do not trust chain locks alone — they are not strong enough to keep out a determined intruder.
- Be sure all valuables are permanently marked with your name and record all serial numbers.
- Look outside before opening the door. If you can’t see the area in front of the door, install a magnifying peephole (all you need is a drill and screwdriver).
- Never let strangers in the door. If it is a repair or service representative, call the property owner or company to ensure they are supposed to be there. Always insist on identification (a PA driver’s license is the best I.D.).
- Do not allow a stranger to spend a night in your apartment no matter how sad the story.
- Always have your key in your hand as you approach the entryway.
- Hold mail with the post office while away.
- Secure your vehicle, park in well-lit areas, and lock valuables in the trunk.
- Never leave your car running unattended.
- Never leave valuables such as TV’s, stereos, jewelry, purses, etc., where they can be seen from a window.
- Get to know your neighbors. If you look out for them, they’ll look out for you.
- Consider renter’s insurance.