Our team share their tips to avoid maintenance issues

If you're taking some time away from the University over spring break, then the last thing you want to come back to before exam season kicks in is pesky maintenance issues.

With these top tips from our maintenance team, you can minimise the number of maintenance concerns that may arise in your flat during the break.

Getting ready for spring break

1. Personal belongings — Unless your contract is coming to an end, your room will be waiting for you when you come back from spring break, so there's no need to remove all of your personal belongings. However, if you're taking the break as an opportunity to do some spring cleaning, then there's plenty of facilities available for you to use at each of our sites such as clothing donation bins.
2. Cleaning — Make sure to wash up and clear away your kitchen utensils, and dispose of all of your kitchen and room rubbish in the nearest external mixed recycling and food waste bins. This keeps the space tidy for your flatmates, who may be staying in halls through spring break, and makes it easier for our maintenance teams to access areas during this time.
3. Water — Taps left running for prolonged periods can create blockages and floods which cause damage to not just one room but the whole building. Double checking the sink and shower taps are completely off, and that drains are clear, will help prevent accidental floods.
4. Electricity — Turning off your lights and electronics will not only save energy but also reduce the risk of burnt-out lightbulbs and blown fuses. If you can unplug your technology completely then that's even better; as this is proven to prolong battery life and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
5. Windows — You don't want to be surprised by a damp atmosphere or any unexpected visitors. Closing your windows before you leave will ensure that no animals can get into your room and will help maintain the temperature within the building. Once you've closed your windows, pull your curtains closed, especially if you are staying on the ground floor. This will stop anyone from being able to look into your room.
6. Heating — Your room won't need to be kept toasty and warm while you're away, but it's healthy for the entire heating system to continue running at a low level. You can help us achieve this by turning your heater down to the lowest setting — known as the 'frost' setting — preventing the pipes from freezing.
7. Food — Spring break runs from 29 March to 28 April, meaning you could be away for a whole month. You may have some perishable food items, particularly in your fridge, which will expire during this time. Clearing out unwanted or expired items before leaving means you won't come back to nasty smells and food waste. If you have any long-life food items that you no longer need then place these in a food donation bin so that we can pass them on to those in need.
8. Maintenance — If you've logged a maintenance request which is still outstanding, then the team may attend to fix the issue during spring break. Leaving the area clear for access will help the team address your concern as quickly and efficiently as possible without disturbing any of your belongings.
9. Doors — For your safety, lock your room door as you leave. You can head off on your travels with the knowledge that your belongings are secure for your return.

Following these tips should help limit any potential maintenance concerns over the spring break. If you do need to log a request relating to your room, kitchen, or corridor, you can continue to do this on the Planon app or webpage. Read our simple instruction guide for more information.

Wherever you are this spring break, we are here to support you. If you have any issues or need support at any time, the Student Hub is contactable 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can speak to an advisor instantly via the online chat, call at any hour on 02380 599 599, or contact the team via email.