For a brief summary of some of the information on this page, please see the Laurel House Fact Sheet.
If your questions are still not answered after consulting this FAQ, please send them via email to laurel@uts.cc.utexas.edu. We will attempt to respond to all questions by either sending a reply or posting the answer on this page. We just ask that you please scan through the FAQ to make sure your question hasn't been already (frequently) asked! In addition, if you find errors in grammar, spelling, style, etc. please send the question and/or answer number and correction to the address above.
Please note that the answers given here apply to Laurel House Co-op only. Other College Houses co-ops (Pearl St., 21st St., Taos, Opsis) may have different policies. Please call the College Houses main office at (512) 476-5678 between 10 am and 6 pm on weekdays for questions about other houses.
1.1 What is a co-op anyway?
Good question...and probably the hardest of the bunch! According
to the International Cooperative Alliance Statement of Cooperative Identity
(adopted September 1995),
A cooperative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise.
The modern cooperative movement is based on the Rochdale principles [from the same source]:
More specificially, Laurel House is a housing cooperative in which the members who live at the house contribute the operation of the house by paying rent, doing labor (to keep costs down!), and making house policies.
Perhaps, it might also be useful to point out what the co-op is not. The co-op is not a "hippie commune" since while we often eat and work together, we all have our own individual rooms that can be as private as each member wants. Also, the co-op is not actually jointly owned by its members (although members do have a say in its management) since it is property of College House, Inc., and hence it is not a "socialistic commune" in that sense. The co-op also does not promote any kind of specific political/social agenda (other than supporting the cooperative movement) and does not indoctrinate its members with any such agenda.
1.2 What are the advantages of living in a
housing co-op?
In my humble opinion, the primary advantages at living at a housing
co-op are:
For me, the latter is the most important and probably what most distinguishes a cooperative from simply a group of people that live near each other. Because members interact with each other while doing labor, eating meals, etc., they get to know each other and often build friendships that outlast their stay at the co-op (more than one couple have met, courted, and engaged!). By having a common goal, the co-op moves from simply being "a house" to being "our house." In addition, Laurel House has the particular advantages that it is located close to campus, maintains a quiet living environment, and usually has quite a diverse and interesting group of folks as members. Also, Laurel House is small enough that everyone knows everyone else but still large enough so that you don't have to see the same small group of people day in and day out.
1.3 What are the disadvantages to living in
a co-op?
In my humble opinion, the primary disadvantages of living at a
housing co-op are:
While the people are probably one of the most praised aspects of the co-op, they are often the most complained about too! As in any group of people, some of the people will simply not get along. It is in some ways like a loose "extended family" in which the "siblings" sometimes are friendly (even cooperative!) but sometimes quarrel about petty and not-so-petty things. While generally problems can worked out on an individual or house level, often people just get tired of tolerating others "weird beliefs" and this is one of the common reasons that people cite for leaving (see Exit Survey results for more details).
1.4 I don't know if I would like living at
the co-op. How can I decide?
Well, it's hard to give a general rule but here are some factors
to consider:
If you are still unsure, please contact the membership coordinator at the email address listed above.
2.1 I've heard that Laurel House has a quiet,
studious atmosphere. How quiet is it?
It's pretty darn quiet most of the time. The house has designated
quiet hours from 11:00 pm to 9:00 am, Sunday through Thursday nights, and
2:00 am to 11:00 am, Friday and Saturday nights. During these times members
are required to refrain from making noise that can be heard outside of
their rooms. During other times, the house has "consideration hours"
which means that (within reason) if you are being bothered by members making
noise and you ask them to stop, they are supposed to accomodate your request.
There is a formal noise infraction policy but it is rarely ever used because
people usually work things out among themselves. People generally complain
the most about noise from neighbors that travels through the ventilation
system or throught the walls. Sound proofing has been installed in the
1907 building to help deal with this problem.
Outside of the co-op some noise is generated by our neighbors when
they have parties (but we have parties too!) but generally this happens
only a few times each semester. Also, a fire substation is located on our
block and so sirens go off fairly frequently but after a while you hardly
even notice them. Garbage trucks some times come by in the early morning
hours but there is not much we can do about that.
2.2 Are there designated quiet areas outside
of members' rooms?
The study/computer room is designated a quiet area 24 hours per
day (although people do talk some and wander in and out as it is a public
space). Some members even study out in the commons, even though it tends
to be a busy area. Also, when the weather is nice many people study outside
in the courtyard or on the deck.
2.3 Does everyone study all the time?
No, of course not! Members of Laurel House do tend to study a lot
but certainly not all of the time. The house has several organized
social events during each semester like parties in courtyard or on the
deck. Of course, with all the things to do in Austin people also go out
to watch movies, hear music, and/or eat ice cream at places around town
and sometimes these turn into "house events" spontaneously.
3.1 How many people live at Laurel House? What
are they like?
At full occupancy, 45 people live at Laurel House. A total of 41
people live in single rooms while the remaining 4 people live in the two
double rooms. The members of Laurel House are typically graduate students
or upper divsision undergraduates and over 21 years of age. They generally
have a wide variety of majors, backgrounds, origins, and interests.
3.2 Is everyone a graduate student?
No, not everyone is a graduate student. Typically graduate students
compose about 60-70% of the house. The remaining members are primarily
upper division undergraduates. Often a few lower division undergraduates
and university staff members also make Laurel House their home.
3.3 I'm gay/lesbian/bi. Will I be comfortable
living at the house?
Yes. Typically there are several gay/lesbian/bi members at any
given time. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is not tolerated
and specific procedures are place to deal with harassment.
3.4 I'm a foreign student and my English isn't
good. Can I still live at the co-op?
Yes. Students from Mexico, Canada, England, Taiwan, Indonesia,
Japan, South Korea, Australia, Austria, France, Romania, Russia, Czech
Republic, Algeria, India, Pakistan, Senegal, Argentina, Bolivia (just to
name some) have lived at Laurel House. Moreover, several
members have been studying in English as a Foreign Language programs at
UT while living at Laurel House. While English is the primary language
of the house (so directions and instructions are given in English), typically
several members of the house speak Spanish and other languages due to the
language programs at UT.
3.5 I'm under 21. Can I still live at the
house?
Yes. However, if you are under 21, you must apply in person at
a house meeting. Members who are under 21 should be able to demonstrate
that they are mature and are committed to maintaining the quiet atmosphere
of the house. There are only exceptions to this rule under extenuating
circumstances.
3.6 What type of racial diversity is there
typically at the house?
The house is usually composed primarily of members with Caucasian
and Latino ancestry. However, usually a nontrivial fraction of the house
is composed of foreign students. Generally speaking, the racial diversity
mirrors the racial diversity of the student population in the area. Racial
discrimination of any kind is not tolerated and specific procedures are
place to deal with harassment.
4.1 What types of contracts are available? What are the contract periods?
4.2 How much is the rent?
Look at Laurel House Fact Sheet for
current rent information.
Note that the rent is the same for
all rooms of the same occupancy type (single or double) regardless of the
location of the room in the house. Please also
note that the contract that you
sign is for the full year and the rent amount is for the full year (not
by monthly occupancy!). Three payment plans are possible:
If you have further questions, please contact the membership coordinator.
Disclaimer: See the contract for the full details of your payment responsibilities. The complete agreement between the member and College Houses is listed in that document and the above information is provided for informational purposes only.
4.3 Is there a deposit? If so, how much
is it?
There is a $300 security deposit for all members who live at the
house which is due when you sign your contract. It is refundable when you
leave (minus any charges that you may owe).
4.4 Are there any other fees? If so, how much
are they?
There is a $50 nonrefundable membership fee which is due
when you sign your contract. This fee goes toward a lifetime membership
in the North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO) and College House
development funds. Applicants who are already members of NASCO are only
required to pay $30. Applicants who are former members of College Houses
do not have to pay the membership fee again. Benefits of NASCO membership
include eligibility for participation in the the annual NASCO conference,
the summer internship program, and the hostelling benefits programs at
co-op nationwide.
5.1 What is the purpose of house labor?
The purpose of house labor is to keep costs down by not always
having to pay outside contractors to perform tasks that the members can
do themselves. This activity is also consistent with the cooperative
principle to be as autonomous and independent as reasonably possible.
The highest priority is given to tasks which will maintain the cleansliness,
safety, and security of the house. Beyond these goals, labor is also dedicated
to keeping the house looking nice, supporting members' educational activities,
and generally making Laurel House an interesting place to live. While this
all sounds very serious, labor is not all drudgery. Many co-opers learn
new skills or develop old ones (e.g., you will be amazed at how much faster
you can do dishes, you will have a hard time of conceiving of cooking for
parties less than thirty, etc.). Members also sometimes make friends with
their labor partners and comment that doing labor gives them a sense of
accomplishment which can provide a boost at times when things may not otherwise
be going so well. So while labor is work, for the reasons mentioned above,
some members enjoy doing their labor and (gasp!) some even find it fun.
5.2 How many hours of labor are required
each week?
Each member is required to perform 5 hours each week. Typically,
once a member learns how to do a particular job, the amount of time actually
spent doing the labor is slightly less than the number of hours of credit
given for that job. (Occasionally during the summer, it has been necessary
to require 6 hours per week for short periods of time when the occupancy
has been below normal but this situation is rare and short-lived.)
5.3 What kind of jobs are available?
Most of the jobs entail either cooking or cleaning although other
tasks like house maintenance, gardening, running errands, computer maintenance,
etc., are available. Labor credit is also given to major and minor house
officers. Major officers include director, food buyer, treasurer, maintenance
coordinator, labor czar(ina), membership coordinator, kitchen manager,
and College House board representative. Minor officers include College
House subcommittee representative, College Houses Education Committee representative,
newsletter representative, social events coordinator, and menu planner.
Being an officer is not only a good way to receive labor credit (and for
some positions even a rent discount) but also a great way to become involved
with the house activities.
5.4 I have class/work/go home during
the weekdays/weekends. Is this a problem?
No, this is generally not a problem. Each member fills out a class/work
schedule at the beginning of each semester and then the labor czar(ina)
fits everyone into the master labor schedule. Note, however, that you can
only be excused from doing labor at a specific time if you can prove that
you have class or work at that time (wanting to sleep in or wanting to
study at a particular time are not considered legitimate reasons
to not be able to do labor). Since labor runs from from 6:30 am to 11:00
pm almost everyday, usually everyone can be accommodated without too much
adjustment.
5.5 I have a very irregular schedule?
Is this a problem?
No, this is generally not a problem as long as your schedule is
not completely random. Some jobs, usually called "flex labor,"
are assigned ahead of time and then members have a fixed period time to
complete the tasks assigned at their convenience. However, since much of
the labor at the co-op must occur at certain times (e.g., dinner cooks
must cook in the afternoons so that dinner is ready by 6 pm), usually most
members are assigned at least some "scheduled labor." Once the
initial labor schedule is constructed, it generally remains the same for
each week until the end of the semester unless circumstances require a
change be made.
5.6 What happens if I can't do my labor?
If you are unable to do your labor for whatever reason, you will
need to make arrangements to have your labor covered by another member
of the co-op (or in rare cases make alternative arrangements with the labor
czar(ina)). Members who miss their labor in all or in part are given "no-shows"
which are monetary penalties for the missed labor. Full no-shows begin
at $7.50 per hour of assigned labor credit and increase with successive
no-shows. Smaller fines ($1-$5) may be given for lateness, poor work, etc.
After three full no-shows, a member is automatically up for eviction. Labor
violations are taken very seriously because without labor the cooperative
will simply not run.
5.7 Can I switch my labor assignments with
other members or pay them to do my labor?
Yes, you can sign up to swap labor with other members of the co-op.
If you cannot find anyone to trade labor with, you may pay other members
at the non-negotiable rate of $5/hour of labor credit assigned.
6.1 How many meals per week are there?
Seventeen (17) meals are prepared at the house each week. Breakfast,
lunch, and dinner are served on weekdays from 7:00 am to 8:30 am, from
11:30 am to 1:00 pm, and 6:00 to 6:30 pm, respectively. In addition, a
"brunch" is served from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm on weekends.
6.2 Who prepares the meals and organizes
the menu?
Members of Laurel House prepare the meals based on menus which
they plan for themselves, in cooperation with the food buyer and menu planner.
The food buyer is responsible for making sure requested ingredients are
available and don't exceed the meal budget and the menu planner insures
that the overall menu for the house is nutritious and diverse. Please
see a
typical menu for details.
6.3 What if I can't make a meal? What can
I do?
If you cannot make a meal you may sign-up for a "save plate."
Save plates are plates of food from lunch, dinner, and brunch which are
prepared for you and stored in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Save plates
are not available for breakfast but other types of typical breakfast foods
(cold cereals, oatmeal, fruit) are available 24 hours/day in the kitchen
and commons area. In addition, leftovers are available from most meals
and these are stored in the house refrigerator for three days after they
are prepared.
6.4 Is food available for snacking?
Yes. A variety of snacks including cereal, peanut butter and jelly,
chips, bread, fruit, coffee, and tea are available 24 hours/day in the
kitchen and commons areas. Leftovers are also available for three days
after they are first served.
6.5 I have dietary restrictions (vegetarian,
vegan, lactose intolerance, etc.). Is this a problem?
Maybe. Vegetarians generally do not have too much trouble finding
things to eat but vegans will probably have a very difficult time eating
from the normal menu. Many cooks prepare a vegetarian option at meals although
such an option is not actually required at every meal. If you require special
food, it may be possible for this to be accommodated if it is possible
to fit it within the house food budget. If you have specific questions,
please contact the membership coordinator at the email address above.
6.6 Can I request special foods?
Yes, it is possible to request special foods from the food buyer
but there is no guaranteee that such requests will be filled. All special
foods purchased must fit within the house food budget which is, generally
speaking, pretty tight.
6.7 Is it possible to eat at the house
without living at the house?
Yes. Members who eat and use the facilities at the house without
living at the house are called "associate" members. Two different
associate memberships are available:
Associate members have full voting privileges at meeting and have full access to house facilities. If you are interested in becoming an associate member, please contact the membership coordinator at the email address listed above.
6.8 Is it possible to live at the house
without paying for meals?
No. All members who live at the house must take part in the meal
plan.
7.1 How big are the rooms? What are they like?
The rooms vary in size but the smallest are approximately 13 ft.
X 13 ft. (4 m X 4 m). The rooms in the 1907 Nueces building are smaller
than the rooms in 1905 Nueces building but the rooms in the 1907 (for the
most part) have private bathrooms while the rooms in 1905 (for the most
part) share bathrooms in suites. Please see the Laurel
House Virtual Tour for pictures of typical rooms.
7.2 Is there air conditioning/heating? How
is the temperature controlled?
Both buildings have central heating and air conditioning. The temperature
is controlled via central thermostats located on each floor of each building.
The heating and cooling system is well-maintained. In fact, some people
have been known to even open their windows in the summer because it is
too cool for their taste.
7.3 Can I get a single/double room?
Laurel House has 39 single rooms and 3 double rooms.
While there are more single rooms than double rooms,
the single rooms are generally in much higher demand. Check with the membership
coordinator for the latest availability. Note that house policy requires
that the house be as gender balanced as possible, and so even if a room
is open, it may be designated for a specific gender.
7.4 Are the rooms furnished?
All rooms at Laurel House contain a full-sized bed, desk, chair,
dresser, shelves, and closet. Also each room is carpeted. Generally speaking
it is difficult to bring your own furniture into the rooms unless it is
fairly small but this, of course, depends a lot on the size of the particular
room. No storage space exists at the co-op (with the possible exception
of summer-- contact the membership coordinator for the latest information).
7.5 Can I have a phone in my room?
Yes. All rooms have one phone jack. Typically the connection fee
is around $50 and the monthly charge for basic local service is $10-$15
per month. Members are responsible for all phone charges made to phones
in their rooms.
7.6 Is there cable available in individual rooms?
No. While the TV room gets cable TV, the rooms do not.
7.7 Are the rooms connected to the Internet (Ethernet)?
Yes! Every room has free broadband internet and is connected to the computer room and laser printer, as well as to anyone who wants to share files or run iTunes.
7.8 Can I smoke in my room?
No. No smoking is permitted in private rooms or interior public
spaces. Burning of candles and incense is also prohibited. The reasons
for this policy are twofold:
This policy is strongly enforced.
7.9 Can I put my bike in my room?
Yes. You may put your bike in your room. Several bike racks are
also available outside for convenience. However, bikes have been stolen
from outside racks on occasion. Whether members keep their bikes inside
or outside, they are strongly encouraged to register their bikes with the
University of Texas at Austin Department of Public Safety. This service
is provided free of charge and allows police to trace your bike and return
it to you if it is recovered (though that happens
rarely... :-> ).
7.10 Can I have firearms in my room?
No. While Texas state law permits concealed handgun in certain
places with an appropriate license, firearms of all kinds are prohibited
in private and public spaces at Laurel House.
7.11 How are rooms assigned? What is my
room assignment? Can I get a room with features X, Y, and Z (where X, Y,
and Z are features of Laurel House rooms)?
Rooms are assigned by the Director of Laurel House before the arrival
of new members at the house and at least one week prior to the beginning
of the contract period. Once an applicant signs a contract, a room preference
form will be sent out for members to indicate their general room preferences
(upstairs vs. downstairs, 1905 building vs. 1907 building). The order in
which room assignments are made is done at random. Due the number of
new members and the unpredictability of room availability, not all requests
may be able to be satisfied.
7.12 Can I switch rooms once at the house?
Yes. Members will be allowed to switch rooms if both parties agree
to switch. Switching rooms is generally limited to periods near the beginning
and end of contract periods. All room switching is subject to the approval
of the Director of Laurel House.
8.1 What kind of public facilities are available
to members?
Public facilities include a full kitchen (open 24 hours) with walk-in
refrigerator and two large freezers, commons/dining area, TV Room (including
cable and VCR), study room, computer room, and laundry room. Laurel House also
has a house phone available for use by members for local calls.
Outside of the buildings, the house
has a front lawn, courtyard, sun deck, and 24 parking
spaces. Please see the Laurel
House Virtual Tour for pictures and more information about many of
these facilities.
8.2 Is there a laundry room? How much does
it cost to use the washers and dryers?
Yes. A small laundry room exists in the 1905 building and contains
two washers and two dryers. It costs 50 cents/load to wash and 50 cents/load
to dry. The washers and dryers are owned and maintained by a private company
but half of the money earned from the machines goes to Laurel House funds.
Laundry detergent and bleach are provided by the house.
8.3 Is there a house telephone available
for use by members?
Yes, a house telephone is available for use by members for local
service. For long distance services, members may use calling cards.
Members are asked to answer the house phone whenever it rings and
take messages but it is not connected to an answering machine, so if you
need to make sure that you receive messages in a timely and very reliable
fashion you should arrange for your own phone service.
8.4 Is there anywhere to spend time outside
on the house grounds?
Yes. The most commonly used outdoor area is the courtyard between
the two house building which features lawn furniture, a picnic table, and
a barbeque grill. The courtyard is a favorite spot for studying, socializing,
eating meals, and partying, especially when the weather is nice. In addition,
a small sun deck is attached to the upper level of the south side of the
1907 building. Finally, there is a small porch and lawn in front of the
1905 building where people often sit to chat, wait for rides, etc. Please
see the Laurel House
Virtual Tour for pictures and more information about these areas.
Members may sign up in advance in two hour blocks for computer time on any of the machines. Members using the machines for classwork are given priority over members using the machines for other purposes.
9.2 What kind of printers are available
for use by members?
A black and white laser
printer is networked to all the machines.
Please see the Laurel House
Fact Sheet for detailed specifications.
Toner, ink, and paper are supplied by the house.
9.3 Can I connect to the university or an
Internet service provider from these machines?
Yes. The house has a high-speed connection to the
Internet. Please see the Laurel House
Fact Sheet for detailed specifications.
9.4 Is there any extra cost to use the computers?
No. The computers are available at no additional cost.
9.5 Is there a scanner available for
for use by members?
Yes. A color flatbed scanner
is connected to one of the PCs. Common image scanning and
editing software is also available. Please see
the Laurel House
Fact Sheet for detailed specifications.
9.6 Is software installed to support
languages other than English?
Yes. The machines have several fonts installed for languages
that do not use the Roman alphabet. Also many of the
office applications have proofing tools for a wide range of languages.
Please see the Laurel House
Fact Sheet for detailed specifications.
10.1 Can I smoke in my room? Are there public
smoking areas?
No. No smoking is permitted in private rooms or interior public
spaces. Burning of candles and incense are also prohibited. The reasons
for this policy are twofold:
This policy is strongly enforced.
10.2 Can I bring pets? Is there a deposit?
Are there other pet rules?
Yes, you can bring pets but there are several restrictions. First,
all pets must be approved by the house prior to the member's arrival
or the acquisition of the pet. Dogs are not permitted and all other
pets ned to be able to fit in a cage or tank of reasonable size. Currently
the additional pet deposit (above and beyond the standard $200 deposit)
is $200 per cat and at least $100 per pet for other animals. Furthermore,
members with pets are usually required to live in the 1907 building and
it is possible that these spaces may be limited or unavailable. Members
who intend to have pets should contact the membership coordinator as soon
as possible to make the necessary arrangements.
10.3 Do you provide housing for married couples?
May children live at the house?
No. While College Houses is actively interested in obtaining facilities
for married couples and students with children, current policy does not
allow them to live at Laurel House.
10.4 Can I have firearms in my room?
No. While Texas state law permits concealed handguns in certain
places with an appropriate license, firearms of all kinds are prohibited
in private and public spaces at Laurel House.
11.1 Is parking available at the co-op?
If so, how much?
Yes, limited parking is available on the co-op grounds for members.
A total of 24 spaces exist in front and behind the house buildings. Note,
however, that the number of members with vehicles typically exceeds the
number of available spaces and so usually not everyone can be assigned
a parking space.
11.2 How is parking assigned?
Parking is assigned on the basis of seniority at the house. Among
members with equal seniority, the spaces are assigned by lottery. Parking
permits are given at nominal cost.
11.3 If I'm not assigned a parking place,
where can I park?
Members without assigned parking may park on the street in front
of the co-op or on nearby streets. Note that members without assigned parking
spaces may not park in co-op spaces even if they are empty because
the parking lots are patrolled by a towing company which automatically
tows vehicles without permits. Generally members are able to find spaces
without too much difficulty but parking can be problematic especially during
high-demand periods (e.g., lunch time, sometimes late at night, etc.)
12.1 Can I have guests for meals?
Yes, guests are welcome for meals. Breakfast, lunch, and leftovers
cost $1/meal /person and dinner costs $2/meal/person. Guest meal charges
are added on to members' balance for the next month.
12.2 Can I have guests stay in my room?
Yes. Guests may stay in a member's room although there are some
restrictions. Members are responsible for their guest's behavior and meal
charges, but there is no rent charges. Guests who stay for more than one
week must be approved by the house and may be required to do 1-2 hours
of labor per week. Guests may not stay for more than three weeks;
after this period, they must apply for regular membership.
12. 3 Can I have guests stay in empty rooms
if any are available?
Yes. If rooms are available in the 1907 building (not often, except
in the summer), then guests may stay in those rooms without rent charges.
Members are still responsible for their guests' behavior and meal charges.
13.1 I will have a computer and/or other expensive
equipment in my room. What kind of door security do the rooms have? Do
I need other special security devices?
The rooms in the 1907 building (exterior doors) actually have three
locks on the doors: (1) lock on door knob, (2) keyed deadbolt, and (3)
keyless deadbolt (the reason for all the locks is that the house had keyed
deadbolts installed but shortly thereafter Texas state law required all
doors to have keyless deadbolts as well). The windows slide open and closed
and so if you insert a stick into the window track it is basically impossible
to open it externally without breaking the window. The rooms in 1905 (interior
doors) also have have three locks on the doors and access to the upper
floor rooms is only possible with a house key. The windows have small panels
which open outward on hinges and are locked by an interal latch. If you
have expensive equipment (e.g., computer) inside your room, you will probably
want to have some type of additional security. All bikes which are stored
outside should have a chain or U-lock to prevent theft.
13. 2 What kind of security is there for
the public spaces?
All doors into the 1905 building (where all the public spaces are
located) are kept locked. All members are given keys to these doors. In
addition, the laundry room and computer/study room are always kept locked.
Nighttime lighting is plentiful and covers much of sidewalk area, parking
spaces, and areas between the houses. In general, members help to provide
security for the house by keeping their eyes and ears open. Since there
is usually always someone around the house, this works pretty well and
suspicious behavior is often noticed quickly and addressed by a house officer.
13.3 Can College Houses representatives make
unauthorized entry into rooms?
Yes. According to the terms of the contract, agents of College
Houses may enter rooms to inspect, clean or make repairs, alterations,
or additions, as College Houses sees necessary. However, entry will not
be made without justifiable cause and Laurel House policy requires that
all such unauthorized entries be announced beforehand and made with two
officers present. In addition, a note must be left regarding the reason
for entry and listing the persons who entered. Due to the community nature
of the co-op, personal privacy is highly valued, and therefore taken very
seriously by both members and officers of the house.
13.4 What is the crime like around the co-op?
Has there been any theft? Have cars been vandalized? Are there transients
around?
The crime rate around the co-op is low. Over the past four years,
there has been no major theft from inside any of the buildings or rooms
although a few bikes have been stolen off outside racks. Occasionally sweets
or other food "mysteriously" disappears from the personal shelves
of the walk-in but such behavior is not normal and is strongly discouraged.
Only one car was vandalized a few years ago but that incident occurred
during winter break when not many people were around. Transients do wander
off the main street nearby but generally manage to get along on their way
without incident before too long. Officers and members are encouraged to
contact the police if suspicious persons are found hanging around the house.
While the crime rate in Austin is low compared to other metropolitan areas
in Texas, members should take common sense precautions to protect themselves
and their property.
13.5 I may need to walk home at night. Is
this a problem? Has anyone been assaulted?
Generally, walking home at night is not a problem but members,
especially women, should take common sense precautions. People (thankfully
no Laurelians) have been known to be assaulted when walking alone at night
in the West Campus area, and so members are encouraged to walk with friends
or get rides after dark.
13.6 Is theft of items in rooms covered
by College Houses insurance? Do I need renter's insurance?
Theft from items from personal rooms is not covered by
College Houses insurance. If you plan to have a lot of expensive items
in your room, you may want have your own tenant's insurance.
14.1 How is the house maintained?
The house is maintained by a combination of house labor and professional
contractors. The house maintenance coordinator is responsible for making
sure that all the rooms and public spaces in the house are properly maintained.
Small problems (burned out light bulbs, leaky showers, repainting, etc.)
are fixed by members who are assigned maintenance labor by the maintenance
coordinator. Bigger projects (plumbing, electrical, carpentry, etc.) are
worked on by professional contractors who are paid out of the house mainenance
budget.
14. 2 Can I remodel my room?
Yes, within reason. All changes made to rooms are subject to approval
by the house director and College Houses. Generally you may repaint all
or part of your room and the house will provide the paint if you provide
the labor. If you make unapproved changes, you will be required to either
return the room to its previous state or be billed for the cost of doing
so.
14. 3 Does Laurel House ever have
problems with insects? What is the policy concerning insect irradication?
The house contracts with an exterminator to come and spray the
house regularly. Residents may request that their rooms not be sprayed
if they do not wish to have their rooms entered. There were termites in
some ground floor rooms in 1907 a few years ago but that was not unreasonable
considering the age of the building. They have since been eliminated and
have not returned. Fleas and cockroaches have been known to exist around
the co-op but they rarely enter the buildings. The house works very hard
to keep the rooms and public spaces (especially the kitchen) free from
all bugs and rodents.
15. 1 Is it easy to become involved
in the workings of the co-op?
Yes! To begin, you may attend the weekly house meetings to find
out about what is going on at Laurel House and College Houses and help
write house policies and make decisions about the future of the house.
If you wish to become further involved with the workings of the co-op,
you can become an officer. Officer positions include director, food buyer,
maintenance coordinator, treasurer, labor czar(ina), membership coordinator,
kitchen manager, College House board representative, College House subcommittee
representative, College Houses Education Committee representative,
social events coordinator, and menu planner. All of these
come with some labor credit and the major officer positions even have rent
scholarships.
15. 2 Does the house sponsor educational
programs?
Yes. The house elects a representative to the College Houses Education
Committee who is responsible for planning educational programs for the
house. Traditionally, these programs have focussed on topics outside of
the traditional university curriculum since most people get enough of that
kind of education in class everyday. Examples of past house educational
events include cooperative business, Wiccan cravens, alternative healing,
pseudoscience, fire safety, sociological analysis of UFOs sightings, and
a visit to the National Wildflower Center. In addition, other College Houses
co-ops also sponsor educational events, and Laurel House members are regularly
informed about those programs as well.
15.3 Does the house have social activities?
Yes. The house elects a social events coordinator who is responsible
for planning social activities for the house. The house organizes several
parties throughout the year. It also sponsors the annual Laurel House Birthday
Party in October each year which has traditionally included a catered dinner
followed by dessert, coffee, and dancing. Please see the
Laurel
House Virtual Tour for pictures and more information about these events.
15.4 Does the house receive any subscriptions
to any magazines or newspapers?
Yes. The house receives subscriptions to the New York Times
and Austin American-Statesman. It also receives delivery of the
The Daily Texan, the University of Texas at Austin campus newspaper.
16.1 What happens at the house between
contract periods?
Between contract periods, the house enters a state called interim.
No food is prepared and only a minimal amount of labor is performed. Members
are not required to be present during interim.
16.2 Does it cost anything to stay over
interim?
If you have contracts on both sides of an interim, then it does
not cost anything to stay at the house during that time. If this is not
the case, then you will be required to pay late move-out or early move-in
charges.
16.3 Is any labor required over interim?
If you are present at the house during interim, you will be required
to do 1-2 hours/week. The amount of labor assigned is proportional to the
amount of time you are present at the house. Members who are not present
at the house during interim are not required to perform labor.
17. 1 How is Laurel House managed on a
day-to-day basis?
Laurel House is managed on a day-to-day basis by the Laurel House
officers and the staff of College Houses, Inc. The director is responsible
for overseeing the overall operation of the house, and various other officers
take care of more specific responsibilities (i.e., food buyer buys food).
The College Houses staff does long-term planning, assists with professional
contractors, assists with paperwork, and coordinates the many other details
required to operate a co-op.
17.2 What is the relationship between Laurel
House Co-op and College Houses, Inc.?
The physical plant of Laurel House Co-op is owned by College Houses,
Inc., but Laurel House has a management agreement with College Houses to
run the house on a day-to-day basis. The house has two representatives
on the College Houses Board of Directors. Laurel House Co-op is actually
incorporated as a cooperative officially under Texas state law and has
its own Board of Directors. As a result of these arrangements, Laurel House
tends to run a little more independently from College Houses than other
co-ops in the corporation.
18.1 How can I apply for membership?
Please look at the Laurel House Fact
Sheet for details about the application process.
Note that if you live in Austin you are required to come by and apply in person.
Please see the
Laurel House Meeting Schedule for the dates and times of scheduled meetings
or contact the membership coordinator.
18.2 How long does it usually take for an
application to be reviewed?
Once an application is received, it is usually reviewed with two
weeks. Due to the large number of applications, individual response cannot
be sent out about the results of each application. Applicants who are accepted
and offered contracts will be contacted by email, phone, and/or U.S. mail.
If you have questions about the status of your application, please feel
free to contact the membership coordinator by the means listed in the previous
answer.
18.3 Do you really read the applications?
Are they really important?
Yes, the applications are very important. Every single application
is read aloud at a membership meeting and members discuss on each
one individually. Answers to the essay questions are especially important
since they provide the most insight into your reasons for wanting to live
at a co-op, your ability to get along with the other members of the co-op,
and your personality and interests. Answers should not be long-winded,
however, due to the large number of applications reviewed; concise and
precise responses are much preferred.
19.1 Can I move in before the beginning
of the contract period? Is there a cost?
Yes, you may move in before the beginning of the contract period
provided that space is available. The cost is $10 per day. Members transferring
from other College Houses houses are not required to pay early move-in
charges but still need to arrange for a mutually acceptable move-in date.
You must contact the membership coordinator (or interim house manager)
to make arrangements for early move-in.
19.2 Can I stay after the end of the contract
of the contract period? Is there a cost?
Yes, you may stay after the end of the contract period provided
that space is available. The cost is $10 per day. Members transferring
from other College Houses houses are not required to pay late move-out
charges but still need to arrange for a mutually acceptable move-out date.
You must contact the membership coordinator (or interim house manager)
to make arrangements for late move-out.
19.3 Is storage space available in the
summer if I leave in the spring and come back in the fall?
Yes. The house usually sets aside storage space for the summer
for members who leave in the spring but return in the fall. The cost is
$35 per session or $70 for the whole summer. Members who are moving out
in the spring may not store belongings at the co-op during the summer.
19.4 If I leave in the spring and come
back in the fall, can I get my old room back?
Yes. If you leave the co-op in the spring and return in the fall,
you may designate your room to have "summer only" availability
and return to your old room.
19.5 If I need to ship personal items to
the house before I arrive, is this possible? If so, where should I send
packages?
Yes, but you must make arrangements with the membership coordinator
before sending out the packages otherwise the delivery may not be accepted.
You may send the packages to Laurel House Co-op, c/o
Membership Coordinator, 1905 Nueces, Austin, TX 78705.
19.6 How are rooms assigned? What is my
room assignment? Can I get a room with features X, Y, and Z (where X, Y,
and Z are features of Laurel House rooms)?
Rooms are assigned by the Director of Laurel House before the arrival
of new members at the house and at least one week prior to the beginning
of the contract period. Once an applicant signs a contract, a room preference
form will be sent out for members to indicate their general room preferences
(upstairs vs. downstairs, 1905 building vs. 1907 building). The order in
which room assignments are made is done at random. Due the number of
new members and the unpredictability of room availability, not all requests
may be able to be satisfied.
19. 7 Can I switch rooms after I arrive
at the house?
Yes. Members will be allowed to switch rooms if both parties agree
to switch. Switching rooms is generally limited to periods near the beginning
and end of contract periods. All room switching is subject to the approval
of the Director of Laurel House.
19. 8 What address can I use to forward
my mail?
You should forward your mail to 1905 Nueces, Austin, TX 78705.
This address will work even if you don't know your specific room number.
19.9 Can I arrange for telephone hookup
prior to my arrival? Who should I call to arrange hookup?
No. You should not arrange for your telephone
to be connected prior to your arrival because you may need or want to switch
rooms after you arrive and changing rooms will require that you pay connection
fees again. After you are settled into a room, you may call
Southwestern
Bell to arrange for local phone service.
19.10 What size are the beds?
The beds are full-sized in single rooms and twin-sized in double
rooms. You will need to bring your own linen and pillows.