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Miami Survival Guide 2011
A Student Survival
Guide to Miami!
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Ladies and gentlemen …
It is with great pride that I welcome you to the FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality
and Tourism Management. On behalf of the faculty and staff, we are glad you are
here!
Alumni and fellow students have helped to develop “A Student Survival Guide to
Miami.” It was designed with you in mind to help familiarize yourself with the
aspects of student life that are not covered in the official University Student
Manuals. Please feel free to download the “Survival Guide” for quick access to
questions you need answers for, but don’t know who to ask. If you don’t see the
answer in the “Survival Guide” don’t hesitate to ask a faculty member or any of
the staff in student services. They are here to make your time at FIU Chaplin
School of Hospitality and Tourism Management as productive, as much fun, and
most importantly as safe as possible.
If I can personally make your time here at FIU more meaningful, please know that
my door is always open to you.
Sincerely,
Dean Mike Hampton, Ed. D.
FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Student Survival Guide to Miami!
Introduction
Welcome to the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at
Florida International University (FIU). This handbook was designed to help you
adjust to life in Greater Miami and to answer many of your questions about daily
life in Greater Miami. You will find many practical tips about getting started …
finding an apartment, getting your electricity turned on, how to get around town,
where to go for food and entertainment, where to shop, how to get a driver’s
license, how to buy a car, how to find a bank … just to name a few.
Where am I?
FIU is located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Miami-Dade County is made up of
many municipalities, the city of Miami being largest. Miami Beach is home to
world famous South Beach, and is actually a barrier reef located just to the east of
Biscayne Bay and mainland Miami. Google www.miami-info.com and click on
Miami and surrounding area. This site provides a number of maps of the Greater
Miami-Dade County area.
FIU has two major campuses, the Modesto Maidique Campus (MMC) located at
11200 S. W. 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199 and the Biscayne Bay Campus (BBC)
located at 3000 N. E. 151st Street, North Miami, FL 33181. The FIU Chaplin
School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is housed on the beautiful
Biscayne Bay Campus.
Biscayne Bay stretches from 163rd Street on the North to Biscayne National Park
on the South, roughly the equivalent of 200 blocks of small islands sandwiched
between Miami Beach and the mainland Miami.
The BBC is situated at the north end of Biscayne Bay just to the south of 163rd
street and across a small inlet from Oleta State Park and Haulover Park. Oleta
State Park links The Inlet at Haulover Park to Miami Beach and to the Atlantic
Ocean.
How do I get around Miami-Dade County?
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Public transportation can be challenging in Miami-Dade County. A personal
vehicle is not needed if you live on campus. If you do not live on campus you are
probably not within walking distance of campus however. In that case, you may
want to car pool to campus, bike or take Miami-Dade Transit to and from your
home away from campus.
The purchase of a car in Miami is tedious at best. Many of the complications of
the purchase of a car are discussed in the Guide which follows. This is an
important decision not to be taken lightly. Please allow yourself time to make that
purchase decision and to familiarize yourself with the many legal responsibilities
that come with the purchase of a car in the U. S. and the State of Florida.
Where should I live?
If you attend classes primarily on BBC and you choose to live off campus in an
apartment or condo, you will want to look for addresses which contain N. E. in the
address, or Aventura, Sunny Isles or Hallandale Beach. These areas will allow you
to reside more closely to the campus, within an easy drive and on a public
transportation line. Information about Miami-Dade Transit may be found within
the Guide which follows.
If you attend classes primarily on MMC you will want to reside within close
proximity to that campus. Addresses with S. W. in the address will be your best
choice.
For student convenience, the Golden Panther Express Shuttle operates daily shuttle
bus service between BBC and MMC. The ride takes approximately 1 hour and
costs $2.50 one way. You board the shuttle and are dropped in front of AC I & II
on BBC. You are dropped and board the bus just steps away from the Graham
Center and the Bookstore at MMC. Many commuters find this a good time to
study or just catch a quick nap as the bus travels from one campus to the other.
Additional information about schedules can be located at fiu.edu/department of
parking and transportation/ bus schedule.
Several areas of the Hospitality Management building are currently undergoing
renovation and expansion. Please pardon our dust as we continue to strive to be
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
one of the finest Hospitality and Tourism teaching facilities in the world. We
appreciate your patience.
If you have questions you don’t find answered here, please don’t be shy. Check
with student services located on first floor of the Hospitality Management building
in the Carnival Center at BBC. They will be happy to help you with the answers
and to add the information to future postings of this website.
We wish you a happy, safe and satisfying relationship Worlds Ahead with FIU,
your University!
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cover
Page 1
Dean’s Welcome
Page 2
Introduction
Page 4 – 6
Table of Contents
Page 6
International Student and Scholar Services
Page 7
FIU Official Calendar … Major holidays and events
Pages 8 – 10
Health Matters … ON campus and Off campus …
Pages 10 & 11
EMERGENCY Hospitals -- 911 -- Pharmacies
Getting involved on campus
Page 11
Community involvement … Jobs
Pages 12 & 13
Religion
Page 14
Money Matters … Where to Shop and Eat
Pages 15 & 16
Transportation … Bus…Hertz on Demand … SunPass
Pages 16 – 19
Buying Your Own Wheels …
The Car -- the Driver’s License – the Car Insurance
Pages 19 - 21
Off Campus housing
Setting up utilities -- Lights -- Cable/phone/internet
Pages 21 - 33
Getting used to the weather
Pages 33 - 35
Safety in the City
Pages 36 - 44
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International Student and Scholar Services
Check it out @: www.isss.fiu.edu
Immediately upon your arrival on either the FIU Biscayne Bay Campus (BBC) or
the FIU Modesto Maidique Campus (MMC) please take the time to surf the
important website listed in red just above.
All students attending FIU in F-1 or J-1 student status are REQUIRED to attend
an Immigration orientation conducted by International Student and Scholar
Services (ISSS.) This is a separate orientation from other academic, departmental
or other university-wide orientations. The orientation covers information specific
to international students that the individual MUST be aware of such as,
information pertaining to your visa or what you need to do if there is a change in
your status or other changes while attending school here at FIU.
If you are looking for ways to get involved in activities both on and off campus,
ISSS also has a student club that participates in many events on and off campus.
The Club provides an opportunity for you to meet others from all across the globe
who also attend FIU.
ISSS also provides information about scholarships available to international
students as well as other financial aid opportunities.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Official FIU Calendar
There will be many times throughout the school year when you need to check the
official University calendar. The links below allow you to see everything from
official University holiday, financial aid deadlines, housing deadlines, semester
breaks and even the dreaded exam schedules. This is a handy link to add to your
favorites on your computer just so it will be available at your finger tips when you
need the information.
Check it out @
http://calendar.fiu.edu/events/index/calendar:academic/start:2011-1108/end:2011-12-08
Many campus organizations post their major events on the University calendar.
Flyers are also posted throughout campus to advise you about when events are held
during the semester. Check it out @
http://registrar.fiu.edu/fileadmin/templates/Registration/images/Forms/Recor
ds/2011-2012_Academic_Calendar.pdf
This pdf file is available through the registrar’s office with the link provided.
Holidays observed in the US can be found here:
Check it out @ http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/us/2012
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Official U. S. National holidays
Check it out @ : http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/us/2012#!hol=9
Official University Holidays/campus closures for 2012 are:
Fall Semester:
Labor Day … September 03, 2012
Veterans Day … November 11, 2012 (observed November 12, 2012)
Thanksgiving … November 22 & 23, 2012
Christmas … December 24 & 25, 2012
Spring Semester :
Martin Luther King Day … January 16, 2012
Spring Break … March 12 – 17, 2012
Summer Semester:
Memorial Day … May 28, 2012
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What is Daylight Savings Time and what you need to know about it!
Hard to explain but we can’t live without it!
March 11, 2012 … set clocks ahead one hour … or Spring Forward
November 04, 2012 … set clocks back one hour … or Fall Back
Get to know your campus
Check it out @ : www.bbc.fiu.edu
Even though the BBC campus may not seem to be that big it is important to take a
meaningful walk around campus upon arrival just to familiarize yourself with all
that is offered. Many students are surprised by the simple things like learning that
the classrooms in the library have entrance doors on the outside of the building not
from inside of the library, or that there is a free student computer lab on the second
floor of WUC. These are things that you do not always remember from orientation
but are still important things to know. Just a small bit of information … there is a
new Game Room for students in the WUC where you can hang out and have fun
with some old and new friends. Also the REC center at BBC (Check it out @:
www.bbcrec.fiu.edu ) offers many group classes as well as access to the tennis
court, basketball court, soccer field, volleyball court, the Olympic sized swimming
pool on campus and a variety of special events and activities of interest to all.
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On-Campus Healthcare
University health services are available to you providing free or low cost services.
They perform routine medical exams for illness and injury, physical examinations,
individual medical consultations, family planning consultations, health educations,
and screening for high blood pressure and other conditions.
There are also specialized services available for women through the Women’s
Health Center. These types of services include pap smears, breast exams, pelvic
exams, pregnancy tests, STD tests, diagnosis of minor gynecological disorders and
referral services. There is fee of $35 for exams and consultations with the
gynecologist.
Check it out @: http://www2.fiu.edu/~health/
For ANY Off Campus Medical or Life Threatening Emergency
… Call
911 … they will ask you for the location you are calling from and
what your emergency is. Speak clearly and concisely and they will help you.
911 dispatchers are Miami – Dade County officials and can send police, fire or
ambulance quickly and efficiently. They are there to serve and protect you!
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Hospitals with emergency rooms near the BBC campus:
Mount Sinai Aventura Emergency Room
2845 Aventura Boulevard (a block east of US1, north side Aventura Mall)
Aventura, FL 33180
ER direct phone: 305-692-1000
Mt. Sinai Main Campus
4300 Alton Rd (East end of Julia Tuttle Causeway ( aka 36th Street or SR
112) en route to the Fontainebleau Hotel
Miami Beach, FL 33140
ER direct phone: (305) 676-2200
Aventura Medical Center
2956 Aventura Blvd (195th Street & US1 (Biscayne Blvd.)
Aventura, FL 33180
ER direct phone: (305) 682-7290
Jackson North Medical Center (FIU College of Medicine facility/no
emergency services, but physician services)
160 NW 170st (East I-95 & NW 167th St)
N. Miami Beach, FL 33181
Phone (305) 651-1100
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*Note www.yellowpages.com is also a good search link to use when looking
for hospitals in the area.
What is a prescription? What is a pharmacy?
If you are in need of medication, a doctor at student health services on-campus
will most likely write a prescription for medication for you. It is your
responsibility to have the prescription filled at a pharmacy. You can find a
pharmacy at most drugstores such as Walgreens, CVS or Navarro. Most grocery
stores such as Publix and Winn Dixie now have in-store pharmacies. Target,
WalMart and Costco also have pharmacies in their Miami-Dade County stores.
The FIU MMC campus has a pharmacy on campus which is open M, W through F
from 8:30a-5:00p and T 8:30a-6:30p.
Getting involved On Campus
A great way to meet new friends is to get involved in campus life. If you are
interested in finding out which organizations and clubs exist at the BBC campus,
stop by the Campus life office on the first floor of WUC. They will gladly assist
you in getting involved in an organization that is meaningful and fun for you. If
you live in Bay Vista housing and are looking for ways to get involved within the
residence halls, the Bay Vista Hall Council is an organization designed for
residents to plan activities, as well as to work with housing authorities to make
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
campus housing more palatable!. For example this organization along with the RA
staff was responsible for getting wireless internet access in the residence halls for
all to use. Know that your voice will be heard! Remember, there is an organization
for every student, you just have to know where to look and be open to getting
involved! If you are interested in specific hospitality organizations be sure to
check here in the www.myhospitality.fiu.edu website to see information posted.
Make sure you frequently check your FIU email account and Facebook to learn
about when groups meet and when they have campus wide sign-up so you can join
in, get involved and more fully enjoy your University experience! A major way to
get involved as a hospitality and tourism student is through the South Beach Food
and Wine Festival. Check it out @: www.sobefest.fiu.edu It is an international
event and your participation is vital to its success. It is also a great resume builder!
Want to stay connected to all campus organizations … be sure to join
www.orgsync.com … get involved and stay connected!
Community Involvement
If you want to make a difference in the community and are interested in getting
involved with organizations off campus, you may want check out the following
groups … Big Brothers, Big Sisters www.bbbs.org … Hands on Miami
www.handsonmiami.org) –United Way ( www.unitedwaymiami.org)
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
There are lots of organizations on –campus that participate in activities that help
outside organizations with activities such as food and clothing drives for groups
such as Joshua’s Heart, No Kid Hungry, Share our Strength and Camillus House.
Habitat for Humanity and the annual Martin Luther King Day of Service offer an
opportunity to get into the community and make a difference. If you are an animal
lover the FIU Pre-Vet Club serves the Miami-Dade County area.
Jobs
If you are an international student you must follow ISSS directions as to when you
are eligible to work off campus and how many hours you may work. Again …
check them out @www.isss.fiu.edu before you accept employment of any kind
during your time here at FIU. If you are looking for a job in hospitality check @:
hmcareer.fiu.edu. Industry positions are posted weekly. HM career center sends
out emails each week about companies looking for students to work locally. The
career center also distributes information about companies who will visit the
campus to recruit for positions outside the South Florida area. It is important that
you check your FIU email on a regular basis so you will not miss out on any
opportunities. Career services in WUC maintains an online database of jobs as well
as resume and interview assistance available for students. Websites such as
www.careerbuilder.com , www.monster.com, and www.indeed.com post jobs
everyday as well.
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Religion
If you are interested in religious services there are a number of on-campus
organizations and ministries that are ready to help you.
Check out @:http://fiumdcwesley.wordpress.com/about/
The South FL Church of Christ holds services in WUC on Sunday at 10:30 am.
Check it out @: www.sfccnorthdade.org
The FIU Multi-Faith Council and the Catholic Campus Ministry are on-campus
student organization dealing with the spiritual needs of students as well. You may
get their contact information at the Campus Life office in WUC.
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Money Matters:
One of the most important activities you will participate in when you first arrive in
Miami will be to find a safe, secure and reliable place in which to deposit your
Parent’s or your own hard earned money! May we suggest the following:
University Credit Union
Wolfe University Center (WUC) FIU Biscayne Bay Campus
North Miami, FL 33181
Phone: 786-425-5000 or 1-800-230-4832
www.ucu/miami.org
The University Credit Union has been in existence in Miami-Dade County since
1947 and is conveniently located on BBC in the WUC. As a member of the
National Credit Union Association, they provide all the same services you might
find at a bank. Your funds at the Credit Union are federally insured. University
Credit Union has offices throughout the community at large, as well as at the
University of Miami, at St. Thomas University and the Legal
Community throughout Miami-Dade County.
Wells Fargo Bank
14731 Biscayne Boulevard
North Miami, FL 33181
Phone: 305-957-0952
Wells Fargo has been a household name in the U. S. since 1852, when their
Stage coaches travelled day and night to carry mail, passengers and money across
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the great plains and into the mountain west. Wells Fargo is one of America’s
premier banking institutions, offering the utmost safety and security in their
services. For those living on or close to BBC, there is a Wells Fargo Bank
conveniently located at the Biscayne Commons shopping area just in front of
Publix on Biscayne Boulevard (US1). For those living on or near MMC, there is a
Wells Fargo Bank in the Gold Parking Garage (PG1), Room 102 at MMC.
Where to Shop and Eat
You came to Miami because you have heard exciting, wild and crazy things about
Miami … it is HOT, HOT, HOT and It’s Different Here! See it Like a Native …
Check it out @ www.miamiandbeaches.com … the official Convention and
Visitors Bureau website. This site is the only site you will need. It lists everything
You ever wanted to know about Miami and the Beaches … and there’s a live
webcam! If it is Ft. Lauderdale and environs you long for check out their
convention and visitors bureau site at www.sunny.org. This site
contains everything you ever wanted to know about Ft. Lauderdale and Broward
County from shopping to entertainment to dining!
Transportation:
If you are in need of transportation from campus to campus no worries, the campus
shuttle runs on a regular basis during the semester when classes are in session. d.
Be sure to check the link below to find an up-to-date schedule and information
about the shuttle services between BBC and MMC.
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If you live at BBC in the dorms and need a ride to go shopping, there is a shuttle
that provides transportation between the BBC and the Aventura Mall. The shuttle
also stops at places like Wal-Mart, Target and Publix as well as the Aventura Mall.
This service runs from 7:00pm to 12:00am Wednesdays. Other days may be
available but you must check with the front desk at Bay Vista Housing for the
current schedule for each semester. Check it out @ :
http://parking.fiu.edu/bus_schedule.htm
If you need transportation throughout Miami-Dade County, Miami –Dade Transit
buses are available and stop here on campus. Bus passes for Miami-Dade County
Transit buses may be purchased with CASH ONLY at the at the WUC Information
Desk at BBC and at the Department of Parking and Transportation at MMC.
Miami-Dade Metro Bus Passes prices will be changing soon. New Metro passes
will be $50.00 and Metro Parking passes will be $10.00. Additional fares for Metro
transit are:
$2 (Metrobus and Metrorail)
$2.35 (Metrobus express)
$0.25 Metrobus shuttle)
Free (Metro mover)
1 Day pass $5 … this only works for that day not 24 hours from the purchase time
If you are trying to plan a trip using the Miami- Dade Transit system use the
Google trip planner for a customized route just for you.
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*Note: Aventura Mall is the connection point between Miami-Dade Transit and
Broward County Transit *
Check it out @: http://www.miamidade.gov/transit/fares_college.asp
FIU and Hertz have also partnered together to provide a service called Hertz on
demand allowing students to rent vehicles by the hour/day at specified parking
spaces located on the MMC campus at Market Station, PG5. The vehicles are
hybrid or electric cars and gas, insurance and recharge is included in the fee. To
pay for these services a credit card/ debit card must be provided and will be
charged with a hold of up to $130. This means that there must be more than the
hold amount available on the card used or you will not be able to use the card until
the hold is removed.
Check it out @: http://www.hertzondemand.com/FloridaInternationalUniversity/
New to Florida and don’t know what a toll system is? Check out SunPass.com
This website tells you how to apply and pay for a SunPass transponder or SunPass
mini sticker. There are many toll roads in Florida, and the purchase of a SunPass
transponder or SunPass mini sticker will save you time and money. A Sun Pass is
not required but Sun Pass customers pay less than cash customers saving you big
bucks!
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A Florida SunPass mini sticker is available for about $5 plus tax and is regularly
sold at Publix or Navarro as well as the official State of Florida online site. The
Florida SunPass transponder is available at either Publix or Navarro and online and
costs $25 plus tax. Both SunPass and SunPass Mini are available only at
authorized SunPass retailers. The purchase of a SunPass allows you to set up a
prepaid account using your debit card and to authorize the State of Florida to
automatically replenish your account when needed. It is a safe, secure way to
travel throughout Florida on toll roads.
If you drive and you do not have a SunPass, as a general rule you should always
keep a small amount of cash with you in case you have to pay a toll. For example,
the toll on the Florida Turnpike between Miami and Orlando exceeds $25.00 one
way. Better to be safe than sorry!
Check it out @: https://www.sunpass.com/index
I NEED A CAR … HELP!!
If you are a student wanting to purchase a car you may want to start your search
online. Look for reliable new and used car dealerships. They will be the most help
and if something goes wrong with the car, you will be the most protected because
they back up their products. Carmax.com is reasonable and reliable source of used
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cars in this area as well. They offer a variety of guarantees when you purchase a
used vehicle. Check it out @: www.carmax.com If you are uncertain of the kinds
of things to ask when trying to buy a used car, or new car for that matter, you may
want to ask your favorite faculty member to help you with your questions.
I HAVE A CAR … HELP!!
If you have a car and have no clue what those blinking lights and funny noises
mean, no problem. There are places like TirePlus, Goodyear, and Autozone located
in the North Miami Area that can help assist you if you have any automobile
questions. Check it out @: www.yellowpages.com
If you need a tow truck take a look at the yellow pages.
SO WHAT ARE YELLOWPAGES??
Yellowpages.com is a search site that works as an online phone book. You can
search businesses by name, type, and even locations. Bookmark this site, it is
invaluable for local phone numbers.
Check it out @: http://www.yellowpages.com/north-miamifl/towing?g=north+Miami%2C+FL&order=distance
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STATE OF FLORIDA AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
It is required by Florida state law that you have insurance on your motor vehicle.
There are many companies that offer insurance such as State Farm, All State, and
Geico. You may Google or Bing these companies above for an online quote and
payment procedures.
Be sure when selecting an insurance company to ask about student discounts as
well as what other discounts you can get such as discounts for good grades. Also
make sure you learn about the benefits some insurance companies may offer such
as emergency roadside assistance. Insurance is a safety precaution. You pay a
monthly premium. If an accident were to happen the insurance would be able to
help cover the damages for you. If you don’t understand the concept of insurance
you may want to speak to your favorite faculty member!
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The Off-Campus Housing
Useful Resource for Housing Search
Check it out @:
Apartments.com: http://miami.apartments.com/
Rent 1 Sale 1 Realty: http://www.rent1sale1.com/st/rental/fl.html
Craigslist: http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/apa/ (note about Craigslist: yes, it is a
popular website to find apartments listed by individuals. But let the buyer
beware! Never go to visit an apartment alone, ALWAYS take someone with you.
Even if you are going to an apartment complex with a main administrative office,
take someone with you. NEVER go alone!)
What to Look for in an Apartment
Be prepared for your search. Think about the following things as you begin
your search.
•
Application Deposits
Never put down a deposit to hold an apartment unless you have a written
agreement indicating whether it is refundable.
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•
Cost
Can I afford this apartment? Do I need to get a roommate? If I get a roommate,
can I afford the apartment even if the roommate leaves?
•
Location
Is the neighborhood safe? Even at night? Are you within easy walking or biking
distance of the campus? Are city transit buses available?
•
Model Apartments
Never sign a lease based upon a model. Insist on seeing the actual apartment you
will occupy.
•
Pest Control
Does the landlord have a regular pest spraying program?
•
Functionality
Check appliances, are they all in working order. Run water in all sinks, showers
and tubs. Flush toilets, and check to see if air conditioning and heating is working
properly.
•
Appearance
Is the apartment clean? Do the carpets look worn or smell bad? Has the apartment
been recently painted? Do the walls have nail holes?
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Make an Inventory List
•
Note all defects on the inventory list or check in sheet signed by the landlord or an
impartial witness. Photograph or videotape the apartment at move-in and moveout!
Landlord
•
Speak to the tenants of the apartment complex. Does the landlord make a habit of
unannounced entries? Are repairs made quickly?
Noise and Parking
•
Check for noise and parking problems by visiting the apartment at various times
during the day, at night and on weekends.
Safety
•
Are there deadbolts on the doors? Are hallways and parking lots well lit? If there
are sliding glass doors, are there adequate locks to deter forced entry?
What Should I do before I sign a Lease?
Do:
• Read the lease and make sure you understand it.
• Be prepared to pay full rent, not just your share. This is what "joint and
several" liability means, a term included or implied in nearly all leases.
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• Obtain a copy of any rules and regulations in addition to the lease.
• Have all promised repairs and improvements written into the lease and
signed by the landlord.
• Keep a copy of the lease and rules and regulations with your important,
permanent records.
• Insist on seeing your actual unit.
• Get clear written permission for any pets.
• Check maintenance responsibilities when renting a house or duplex.
Do NOT:
• Sign a 12-month lease unless you are willing to pay rent for 12 months.
• Sign a 12-month lease with roommates unless all roommates are willing to
pay rent for 12 months.
• Sign a lease with an automatic renewal clause.
• Sign a lease that gives the landlord unlimited access to premises without
notice or consent.
• Sign a lease based on a model apartment.
• Sign a lease before visiting the neighborhood at various times during the
day, night and weekend.
• Sign a lease until all agreements are negotiated with the landlord in writing.
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Inspecting your Lease
Be sure to read your lease carefully before signing anything or making a deposit on
a rental unit. Be sure to look for these things in a lease:
• Names -- yours and the manager's name and address
• Physical description of the rental unit
• Lease rental dates
• Lease renewal clause
• Rent amount and due date: Can rent be increased? What are the penalties for
late payment?
• Deposit: Is it required? How much is it? Is it interest sharing? Be sure to get
and keep all rent and security deposit receipts for your records.
• Pets: Are they allowed? Is a fee or deposit required?
• Termination: When, how, prior written notice?
• Tenant Responsibilities: Sublet, decorate, conduct rules.
• Owner Responsibilities: Can maintenance enter apartments without tenants
approval? Liability for injury to tenants?
• Locks: Can you add your own? Are deadbolts allowed?
• Utilities: Which ones are included in the base rent?
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Inspecting the Facilities
• Is it weather proof and watertight?
• Are the hot/cold water lines connected to the toilet, kitchen facilities and an
adequate sanity sewer system?
• What are the garbage disposal facilities?
• Is there adequate ventilation?
• Do all the rooms have at least two electrical outlets? Does the wiring appear
to be in good condition?
• Are the stairs, porches and railings in good repair?
• Is the unit free of insects?
• Are the door and window locks, plumbing, a/c and heating units in good
condition?
• What appliances are furnished? Is the furniture in good condition?
• Are laundry facilities provided?
• Is there enough parking?
• If a swimming pool is on the premises, is it clean?
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Get Your Security Deposit Back
Most states hold landlords to strict guidelines as to when and how to return
security deposits. Landlords who violate these laws can be held to stiff penalties.
Wear and Tear
The general rule is that you are not responsible for normal wear and tear. For
example, if the dishwasher must be replaced because it has simply worn out, that's
the landlord's responsibility. For more information, see chart: Cleaning and Repairs
a Landlord Can Deduct From a Security Deposit at http://www.nolo.com/legalencyclopedia/chart-cleaning-repairs-landlord-deduct-29017.html
If you or your guest causes damage by your unreasonable carelessness or
deliberate misuse, however, you must pay for it. The cost of replacing the dining
room carpet because your fish tank sprang a leak will properly come out of the
deposit. You must leave a rental at least as clean as it was when you moved in.
Because "normal wear and tear" can be interpreted many different ways, disputes
often arise. The bottom line is that the better you itemize and document the
condition of your unit when you move in, the better case you'll have against a
landlord who tries to gouge you on the way out. For information on documenting
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the move-in condition of your rental, see the article at http://www.nolo.com/legalencyclopedia/protect-security-deposit-move-in-30231.html
Deadlines
Landlords are required by the Florida state law to return security deposits within 15
to 60 days depending on whether tenant disputes deductions after you move out.
The landlord must send, to your last known address, either:
• Your entire deposit (plus interest, in some states and in some cities), or
• A written, itemized statement describing how the deposit was applied to
back rent, cleaning, or repairs, plus the remainder of the deposit.
Small Claims Court
If your landlord fails to return your deposit when and how required, you can sue
the landlord in small claims court. If the landlord has intentionally and flagrantly
violated the law, in some states, you can recover two or three times the amount of
the deposit, plus attorneys' fees and other damages. For information on suing in
small claims court, see http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/small-claimscourt
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Tips
• Don't assume that a super-nice landlord equals a returned security deposit.
Be wary of everyone, and don't let something slip just because you think the
landlord really likes you.
• It is very important to take the move-in and move-out inspections with your
landlord, and take a set of pictures or video for every blemish may have.
Upon moving in make sure to document any damages, unclean areas, etc.,
that may have been left by previous tenants. Report these to your Landlord
as soon as possible for repairs and cleaning.
• If you have a problem with any part of the apartment, or if something breaks
from normal wear and tear, contact the landlord as soon as possible to avoid
dispute at the end of the contract length. The landlord may be obliged to fix
it and cover the fix charges depending on clauses written on the contract.
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Setting up Utilities
Florida Power and Light (FPL) –This is the light company used in the state of
Florida and if you are moving into off campus housing you must arrange to have
you electricity turned on prior to you moving into the property.
To start an account you can contact FPL online
Check it out @: www.fpl.com
Or you can call 1-800-226-3545
To set up the account you need the following information:
• Social security number
• Passport or visa
• Deposit based on location ( this information will be given to you when
you start to set up the account)
*Note the FPL system is made to work better through the online application but
you can call the number if you want to talk to an actual person.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Cable, Internet, & phone services
Comcast offers bundle packages for cable and internet or cable, internet, and
phone. They require you to sign a contract usually for 6 months or more to lock
in a specific price. Most of their services are managed online .
Check it out @: www.comcast.com
Another company that you can consider when looking for these types of
services is AT&T. AT&T offers U-verse TV now to many areas and upon
setting up the service you can see if it is available in your area.
Check it out @: http://www.att.com/shop/u-verse/index.jsp?wtSlotClick=10068N7-0-6&fbid=xmJu0V6c8vd
*Note make sure you ask questions when setting up phone, internet and cable
services. They all involve contracts. These contracts are typically based upon
promotions depending upon what and when you sign-up. Most of the time the
prices change after the promotional period has ended. Always ask for the price
after taxes and fees have been added so you can be sure that you can budget and
afford the services you are considering.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Cell phone services
There are many cell phone companies. In Miami-Dade and Broward Counties
the most common are Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Metro-PCS.
These companies are nationwide but there are some smaller companies such as
Cricket, and Boost mobile. All these companies offer international plans for
different prices and you can decide which plan better fits your needs. Check it
out @:
www.verizonwireless.com
www.t-mobile.com
www.sprint.com
www.att.com
www.metropcs.com
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Getting used to Florida Weather
Florida is known as the Sunshine state. We Floridians know that the state is prone
to Hurricanes. You must be prepared for these kinds of storms.
Check it out @: www.fiuoem.com
At the emergency management page for FIU listed above you can also sign up for
FIU alerts which will send you text messages when emergencies occur on campus
so you will be in the know about what is happening. Also it is important to know
that FIU MMC campus is a hurricane shelter and if you stay on campus there is
specific paperwork that you will fill out upon check-in letting you know the steps
that will be taken if a hurricane does occur.
Hurricane information for students in University Housing can be found at the link
below.
Check it out @ :http://www.housing.fiu.edu/Forms/HRL-HurricaneInformation.pdf
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Safety in the Big City
Quick tips and some things you should not do:
• Do NOT hitch hike or get into a car with someone you do not know … any
place, anytime, anywhere.
• If you own and drive a personal vehicle, it is best to get gasoline/petro
during daylight hours. Always lock your doors when you are filling your
gas tank, leave valuables (briefcases, hand bags, book bags, back packs etc.)
on the floor and out of sight, or locked in the trunk/boot of your vehicle.
• Do not talk or otherwise use your cell phone while you are filling your gas
tank.
• If you live off campus do not open your apartment or house door to anyone
you do not know
• Do not leave your doors unlocked both when you are in your home or when
you are away. Make sure your windows are closed and if they can be
locked, make sure they are locked when you are not at home.
Remember:A criminal looks for the opportunity to commit a crime. Awareness,
prevention, and prudent decisions lessen the chances of a crime occurring.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
At home:
•
Keep doors locked at all times, even if you are only away for a few
moments. Do not "prop open" doors in the residence halls.
•
Be assertive and demand that any unwanted person in our residence leave, or
leave yourself. Anyone who refuses to leave is a trespasser. If you live in a
residence hall call police.
•
Make sure hallways, entrances, garages, and grounds are well lit. When you
expect to return home after dark, leave an interior light on with shades
drawn. If you live on campus, report any malfunctioning light at (305)9195911.
•
Know who is at your door before you open it. Campus staff carry
identification, and no solicitors are allowed on campus. If you live off
campus, and your door does not have a peephole, ask the landlord to install
one in your front door.
•
Do not open your door for strangers! Do not let strangers into your
apartment!
•
List initials and last name only on your mailbox or door and in the telephone
book.
•
Get to know your neighbors. If you live off campus, join a neighborhood
watch system and share information on suspicious circumstances.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Away from home:
•
Walk or jog with a friend. Avoid jogging after dark. If you must, stay in
well-lit areas, walk midpoint between curbs and buildings and away from
alleys and bushes.
•
Tell someone where are you going and when you will return.
•
Don't fight back if your purse or wallet is snatched. Turn it over to the thief
rather than risk personal injury, and call the police immediately.
•
Be careful about when and where you patronize Automatic Teller Machines
(ATM). Accessing ATM cash in remote locations, particularly after
nightfall, could expose you to risk of robbery and personal injury.
•
Avoid working or studying alone in a public-access building at night.
In an elevator:
•
Press the alarm button if the elevator becomes impaired while in operation.
Police will respond as quickly as possible. Remain inside until help arrives.
Only trained elevator personnel are authorized to remove trapped occupants.
No one else should attempt to release them or try to force elevator doors
open.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Your property:
•
Use a "disk" style padlock (not the "master lock" type) on all storage units.
Checks the unit periodically to make sure nothing has been disturbed.
•
Don't lend your keys. Keys can be duplicated.
•
Don't mark your key chain with your name, address or license number. Lost
keys can lead to theft.
•
Engrave or mark all valuable personal property with your name and phone
number. Keep an inventory of items.
•
Move valuable items out of easy sight of windows and doors.
•
Lock your vehicle at all times.
•
Copy all important papers and cards that you carry in your purse or wallet,
including your driver's license. Keep the copies in a safe place - the
information will be invaluable if they are stolen or lost.
•
Copy your vehicle registration and don’t leave it in your car. If your vehicle
is stolen, it cannot be entered into the nationwide law enforcement network
without this information.
•
Don't stop for stranded motorists. You are of greater help to them by calling
police.
•
Keep valuables in the trunk of your vehicle, not on the seats.
•
Park your car in well-lit areas.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Remove all keys from your vehicle. Thieves look for keys. Walk with your
•
keys in your hand.
In your car:
•
Check the back seat before entering.
•
Keep your vehicle doors locked at all times, even when driving in daylight,
so no one can jump in at a red light.
•
Keep enough gas in your tank for emergencies.
•
Don't offer rides to anyone you do not know, even if he or she claims to be a
student.
Honk your horn - a good deterrent - if someone suspicious approaches your
•
vehicle. Criminals don't like attention.
Lift the hood, put on the flashers, and wait inside for help with the doors
•
locked if your car breaks down. Ask people who stop to call the police or
AAA for you. Don't accept a ride with anyone you do not know.
Public Transportation:
•
Stay alert to your surroundings.
•
Do not fall asleep while riding public transportation.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
•
Try to maintain a schedule that ensures plenty of people are at your bus or
train stops.
•
Pickpockets are a common problem at crowded train or bus stops.
•
Carry a purse that has a secure and strong strap. Place wallets in your front
pants or inside coat pocket.
•
Be aware of loud commotions that may be staged distractions to allow
pickpockets to operate.
•
If possible sit near the driver or operator.
•
If someone bothers you, say in a loud voice, "Leave me alone" and move to
another area of the bus or train.
•
If you are followed when you exit, cross the street and head for the nearest
well-lit populated area, yell for help, or contact the Police.
If you have a disability:
• Use reflective tape on wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
•
Report any hazardous conditions to the Campus Police.
•
If you have a visual impairment, be sure to get a thorough orientation. If
unsure about hazards, please ask. Remember to use your cane properly.
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Miami Survival Guide 2011
Residence Hall Security:
•
Residence hall exterior doors are locked at all times, to gain admittance,
visitors must call a student's room or the main office using the telephone at
the main entrance of each hall. Visitors are then met at the entrance by their
student-host. At night, hall staff provide support in checking the identifies of
those entering the halls. Students are urged not to allow entrance to anyone
who is not their guest. Visitors are to be escorted at all times by their
student-host, who is responsible for their action and behavior.
•
Residence Hall staff give a high priority to the security of residents. Resident
assistants receive training in safeguarding security and monitor building
safety measures on an ongoing basis. Night staff make periodic checks of
floors and exterior doors, and report security-related matters to resident staff,
or to the police.
•
Each semester University Police and Residence Hall staff jointly present
safety programs to all residents. In addition, fire evacuation drills are
conducted in every hall each semester. Fireworks, explosives, weapons, and
flammable liquids are strictly prohibited in the residence halls, as are all
devices using an open flame or open heating element. And please remember,
falsely activating or tampering with fire safety equipment violates state law
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and creates dangers for the entire residential community in the case of real
fire or emergency.
•
Individual University Police Officers are assigned to specific residence halls.
•
This community-based policing enables students and police to become
personally acquainted. The assigned officer keeps in touch with students and
residence hall staff and informs them of physical safety and security
concerns.
•
For a review of all residence hall procedures, please refer to
www.housing.fiu.edu
•
We wish to thank Ms. Deneatta King, Hospitality Alumni for her
assistance with this Guide. .
FIU, its officers, employees and agents are not liable for any actions by recommended businesses within
this document. Recommendations are provided for convenience only and all transactions are solely that
of the business itself and the student.
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