Housing Maintenance

Meet your Housing Facilities Staff 

Click the link to learn more about the Housing Facilities Staff in your community. 

Maintenance Requests

Emergency maintenance issues should be called in to your complex office or RA On Call or Campus Police at 423-425-4357.

1. Log in to Manage My Housing.
2. Enter your UTC ID and password, click login.
3. Use the "Maintenance Request" link to submit requests.
   • Only students checked in will be able to submit requests.
4. To review submitted requests, Choose My Jobs or Shared Jobs from the drop-down.
   • My Jobs = request a job for your bedroom
   • Shared Jobs = request for the apartment/suite common spaces
   • For existing jobs the status changes to “Created” once it has been accepted as a work order.
   • It will change to “Complete” once the work has been finished and the job closed.
5. Click "New Maintenance Request"
   1. Select a room category
      • My Room = Bedroom
      • Shared Rooms = Apartment Common areas (living room, bathroom, etc.)
   2. Select the exact "Room Space" number in the box shown.
   3. Select Category and Item

• Provide a detailed description of the issue and be as specific as possible.
• For Example: 

1. Click the "By checking this box, I authorize Housing Facilities staff to enter my room, apartment, or suite to complete this work order" box
2. Click "Save Job"
3. You will see submitted and approved requests on the Maintenance page once you select Room Maintenance. This should also show you any requests your roommates have submitted.

Air conditioning in Johnson Obear, Boling, West Campus, Lockmiller and Stagmaier:

2 pipe system, the entire building is set to either heating or cooling mode.

• While the controls on the unit have a heat/cool setting this will not change the temperature as that is controlled on a per-building basis with the 2-pipe system.
• The changeover from heating to cooling or vice-versa is made manually (twice a year), and there is always the possibility that unusual weather patterns might cause some occupant discomfort.
• In the month of October, when winter starts to set in, the two-pipe system must be switched from cold water to hot water. If the weather changes and it warms up for a few days, the residents may become uncomfortable.
  • Once the heat is on, if the outside temperatures are above 55 degrees, the heat will not run through the building.
• In the month of April, when summer starts to set in, the two-pipe system must be switched from hot water to cold water. If a cold front comes through the residents may become uncomfortable.
• With our fluctuating Chattanooga weather we monitor the temperatures closely in October and April to determine the best time to switch the system.
• While weather is fluctuating, residents can turn the unit on/off or open/close a window to reach their desired temperature. A box fan may be helpful as well.

Air Conditioner Settings

Set to Heat or Cool. Set temperature gage between 68-72. Set fan speed to Low or Medium. 

During warm months, setting the temperature below 68 degrees will freeze the unit and prevent it from working properly.

Toilet Etiquette

Only toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. No sanitary items, wipes, paper towels, hair, food, cotton balls, etc., even if it says "flushable".

Should the toilet start to overflow, please use the water cut off valve: right=tight=off, left=loose=on.

Resident Cleaning, Moisture & Pest Prevention Guidelines

Regular cleaning, moisture control, and proper waste disposal are essential to maintaining a healthy living environment. Many issues reported as concerns are actually the result of soap scum, detergent residue, grease, dust, lint, food waste, or moisture-related staining that has not been routinely cleaned. The following guidelines outline resident responsibilities for maintaining clean, sanitary living spaces and environment.

Residents are responsible for bringing their own cleaning supplies and for maintaining cleanliness in shared and private spaces. Failure to routinely clean or properly dispose of waste may result in damage, cleaning, pest-related charges, and/or further actions.

Bathroom Cleaning & Maintenance

Preventing Soap Scum & Residue-Related Staining

Soap scum forms from soap residue, body oils, and hard water. When left uncleaned, it hardens, darkens, and can turn black, creating staining that is often mistaken for a larger issue. Routine cleaning prevents this buildup.

•Clean shower walls, grout, seams, and ceilings at least once per week.
•Focus on corners, seams, and lower wall areas.
•Rinse thoroughly and allow surfaces to dry after cleaning

Showers

•Remove hair and debris from drains.
•Spray all shower surfaces from bottom to top with disinfectant cleaner.
•Clean and disinfect shower floors.
•Rinse well and towel-dry metal surfaces.

Shower Curtains & Liners

Shower curtains and liners must be kept clean to prevent residue buildup and staining.
Clean or replace curtain/liner if it:
•Has dark spots or discoloration along the bottom or seams
•Feels stiff, sticky, or coated with residue
•Has lingering odors
•Does not come clean with routine wiping
Wipe curtains regularly. If a curtain is worn or cannot be cleaned, it is strongly recommended that you replace it.

Counter, Sinks, Toilets & Mirrors
 

•Disinfect all surfaces and allow cleaner to sit for at least 60 seconds.
•Scrub thoroughly, including under toilet rims and around the base.
•Towel-dry fixtures after cleaning.
•Use appropriate cleaners on mirrors and avoid streaks
•Only flush toilet paper, and human waste

General Bathroom Areas
 

•Sweep and mop floors regularly.
•Spot-clean walls, doors, vents, shelves, and handles.
•Remove trash frequently.

Reporting Leaks & Water Issues

•Report dripping faucets, leaking pipes, or standing water immediately.
•Unreported leaks contribute to moisture accumulation and residue-related staining.

General Room Cleaning & Moisture Prevention

Bedrooms & Living Areas

•Dust surfaces weekly, including baseboards and window ledges.
•Vacuum or sweep floors regularly.
•Avoid placing furniture directly against the wall to allow airflow.
•Clean spills immediately.
•Report persistent dampness or water staining.

Kitchens
 

•Clean countertops, sinks, stovetops, cabinets, and appliances regularly.
•Do not leave standing water in sinks.
•Wipe up spills and food residue immediately.
•Report leaking faucets, pipes, or appliances promptly.
 

Dehumidifiers (only in certain complexes)
 

•Emptying the device when it stop as noted on the machine. and
•To clean the filter, use warm water, dry it and place it back in its original location

Trash Removal & Dishwashing (Pest Prevention)

Improper trash disposal and unwashed dishes attract roaches, gnats, flies, and other pests.

Trash Removal
 

•Take trash out regularly; do not allow garbage to overflow.
•Remove trash immediately if it contains food waste.
•Keep trash bags sealed.
•Clean trash cans periodically to remove residue and odors.
 

Dishwashing & Food Cleanup
 

•Wash dishes promptly after use.
•Do not leave dirty dishes in sinks or on counters.
•Rinse food residue from dishes before placing them in sinks or dishwasher.
•Wipe down counters, tables, and stovetops after meals.
•Store food in sealed containers.

Failure to maintain cleanliness in food preparation and disposal areas may result in pest activity and related charges.

Ceiling Fans & Ventilation

•Dust ceiling fan blades regularly; dust can trap moisture and drip onto surfaces.
•Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during and after showers or cooking. In some apartments, the exhaust fans come on when the light is turned on.
•Report non-functioning fans or vents.

Windows, Condensation & Stain Prevention

Condensation forms when warm, moist indoor air comes into contact with cold window glass or frames.

Common causes include:
 

•Hot showers and cooking
•Poor ventilation
•High indoor humidity
•Cold outdoor temperatures
If condensation is not wiped away, moisture collects dust and residue, leading to dark staining or discoloration on window sills and seals.
 

Prevention
 

•Wipe down windows, sills, and seals whenever moisture is present.
•Use exhaust fans during showers and cooking.
•Keep blinds or curtains open periodically to allow airflow.
•Avoid drying wet clothes indoors.
•Keep heating vents near windows clear.
 

When to Report Window Issues
 

•Condensation is constant or excessive
•Water pools inside window frames
•Window seals appear damaged or paint is peeling
These conditions may indicate a building or ventilation issue and should be reported promptly.

In-Unit Laundry Cleaning & Maintenance

Washing Machines

Black residue or particles in washing machines are typically caused by detergent buildup, fabric softener residue, dirt, and moisture, not a mechanical issue.
•Run an empty hot-water cleaning cycle once per month using a washer cleaner or approved household product.
•Wipe down the drum, door gasket, lid, and detergent drawer regularly.
•Leave washer doors or lids open after use to allow the interior to dry.
•Use only the recommended amount of detergent.
 

Dryers
 

•Clean the lint trap before or after every load.
•Wipe down the inside of the dryer drum as needed.
•Ensure dryer vents are not blocked.
•Report dryers that are not heating, venting, or drying properly.
 

Important Reminder
 

Many stains, odors, residue buildup, moisture issues, and pest problems are preventable through routine cleaning, proper ventilation, and waste disposal. Residents may be held responsible for damage, excessive staining, or pest-related issues resulting from neglect.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA) – Resident Responsibilities

Students with approved Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are expected to maintain their assigned living space in a safe, clean, and sanitary condition consistent with University housing standards. Because animals can contribute to moisture buildup, odors, and pest activity if not properly managed, residents with approved ESAs have additional responsibilities to preserve the health and condition of the residential community.
ESAs are permitted only with official approval from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Center for Student Accessibility (CFSA) and must comply with all applicable UTC Housing and Residence Life expectations, policies, procedures, and published materials.

1. Cleanliness and Hygiene
 

Residents are responsible for maintaining their apartment, suite, or room in a clean condition to prevent residue buildup, odors, stains, moisture damage, or pest activity caused by the ESA.
Residents must:
•Regularly clean and sanitize animal bedding, feeding areas, crates, cages, and litter boxes.
•Promptly and properly dispose of animal waste.
•Immediately clean food and water spills to prevent moisture damage and pest attraction.
•Manage pet hair and dander to minimize accumulation on furniture, flooring, ventilation systems, and shared air space.
•Ensure that animal-related items do not create unsanitary conditions or violate community cleanliness standards.
Failure to maintain appropriate sanitation may result in cleaning charges, pest treatment costs, or other remediation expenses billed to the resident.
 

2. Maintenance and Work Orders
 

When submitting a maintenance request or repair work order, the resident must ensure the ESA is properly secured prior to Housing Facilities staff entering the space.
For the safety of Facilities staff and the animal:
•Staff will not enter a unit or bedroom if an ESA is roaming freely.
•If safe access cannot be provided at the time staff arrive, the work order may be canceled.
•The resident will be responsible for submitting a new work order once the space can be safely accessed.
Repeated inability to provide safe access may result in administrative follow-up.

3. Damage Prevention and Financial Responsibility
 

Residents must monitor and manage their ESA to prevent damage to walls, floors, doors, furniture, fixtures, or other University property.
Residents are financially responsible for:
•Repairs resulting from ESA-related damage.
•Excessive cleaning beyond normal wear and tear.
•Pest treatment or remediation caused by animal conditions.
•Odor removal or moisture-related damage resulting from improper animal care.
Charges will be assessed in accordance with standard Housing damage billing procedures.
 

4. General Conduct
 

Residents with approved ESAs must comply with all UTC Housing and Residence Life policies, including those related to quiet hours, shared spaces, cleanliness, and proper trash disposal.
When in shared or public residential areas, ESAs must remain under the resident’s control and handled in accordance with University guidelines.