Room Inspection & Right of Search in College-Owned Housing

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Right of Inspection by College Officials

Inspection of student apartments by members of the administration and residence hall staff is permitted forcleanliness, health, safety, and compliance with all College-owned housing regulations. Resident(s) shall be present (if possible) and any information discovered coincidentally may be used as evidence against residents in College disciplinary proceedings. Visual inspections may also occur when following emergency evacuation procedures (e.g. fire alarms). Because the administration is responsible for discipline, a member of Residence Life staff may enter a student’s room for visual inspections when there is reasonable suspicion of rule violation. If a resident refuses to grant entry, the master key or card may be used to enter the apartment/bedroom. In the event of an emergency, or where there is reasonable suspicion or a complaint, a member of the Residence Life staff may enter a room for a visual inspection in the absence of the residents.

Right of Search by College Officials

A student’s room may be searched by a College official if there is a complaint or reasonable suspicion that a College rule has been violated. Permission for such searches may be given by the Dean of Students, or, in that person’s absence, the designated senior Student Affairs officer. The search may be conducted in the absence of the student(s). If the students are present, they shall be advised that any information or property seized may be used as evidence against them in any College disciplinary proceeding, and they have the right to counsel and the right to remain silent. Any property seized in the search shall be itemized.

Right of Search by Civil Authorities

Search and seizure for purposes related to suspected violation of civil or criminal law of the State of Delaware may be referred to the civil authorities. Such authorities have the right to search the premises and possessions of any student by following the ordinary procedures and requirements for a lawful search. Any information discovered through such a search may be used as evidence in any civil or criminal proceedings and by College authorities when violations of the Residence Life policies or the Student Code of Conduct occur.