The Residence

“Some parts of the place always seem to malfunction, like the button for the windows.”

“More stuff to get everyone chatting and away from our rooms”

“With 24-hour security, it feels like students and regular folks still lose their keys all the time. We really shouldn’t have to pay that much. Honestly, it might be better to switch to a fingerprint system.”

“Safety is a big plus for me. The place also has a gym and other facilities that make it easier to stay active.”

“The building’s security could use some improvement.”

“More chances for people to connect with one another”

“Better security and a stronger sense of community.”

“I just want to point out the main issues clearly, so the accommodation can prevent them from happening again in the future. I genuinely think my move-in experience would have been smoother if the following were addressed: 1. Window and window screens The window and window screens should be installed properly, so students can open the window comfortably without having to worry about insects getting into their rooms. I have lived in the Middle East and in the US for quite a while, and window screens are something I consider essential in any property. They never caused damage to the windows there. I also know that people here tend to rely more on fresh air than on the AC, so it is really important that insects do not come inside. Within less than a month after I arrived, I saw two very large spiders, and the other girls in the neighboring room were able to see how big they were too. Two days ago, I also came downstairs to report a huge fly in my room. I noticed it at first from the sound it was making. I know you already took steps to reduce insects entering the room, and I truly appreciate that. 2. Bathroom cleanliness A. I can say with confidence that the bathroom was not cleaned properly. That is why I emailed you on October 7th, which was the day after my arrival. I noticed the toilet seat was not cleaned thoroughly, especially after I lifted the second part under the cover. It was after office hours, so I could not wait until the office opened again to show them. Because of that, I took pictures, and I attached them to this email so you can see exactly what I mean. B. The bathroom smelled like urine. I am sure there were pee residues under the toilet seat and on the wall. I noticed it not only from the strong odor, but also from the cleaning wipes I had to use to wipe down the wall and the bathroom floor, especially under the toilet seat. Every time I wiped the floor, the wipes turned yellow. I had to wipe several times and nearly finish the mop detergent until the smell finally went away. 3. Apartment contract and check-in dates My apartment contract started on October 1st, but my check-in was on October 6th. Because my visa arrival was delayed, which was out of my control, I lost 5 days from my arrival. As a result, I lost 135.71 UK pounds for those five days. I would like to request a refund for those days, especially since the delay was caused by the visa delay, not by anything I did. I hope the management can do something to fix the conditions I had to deal with. You can see the email below. 4. Kitchen sink The kitchen sink faucet splashes water every time I wash kitchen utensils. The water splashes onto my clothes, the floor, and the kitchen countertop. Since the countertop is made of wood, I started worrying that it could be damaged over time. Even though I wipe the water regularly with a towel, I still end up needing to wash the towel again after wiping the countertop, which just brings me back to the same issue because the splashing keeps happening. 5. Dumpster room on the first floor The indoor and outdoor hallways that lead to the dumpster are full of spiders and other insects. Every time I walk through the rubbish area, I feel uncomfortable about how it looks and how it feels to be there. It would really help if those areas could be cleaned and vacuumed. I have attached some images to this email so you can see what I am talking about. For me, I would really appreciate it if you could review my requests for points 3 and 4 and let me know whether you can help with those requests. Sincerely,”