Residents must meet with the house operations manager or area director to discuss proposed alterations before any changes are made to a living space. Residents are not permitted to:
- alter or add to any part of the building structure or mechanical and electrical systems
- place, affix, hang, or extend any materials on any exterior surface of an MIT residence, including rooftops.
- build any structures that impede fire suppression systems or sprinkler heads
- paint any permanent surface of their residence hall, including in their unit (with the exception if Random Hall, which is designated as a mural building in the Murals & Artwork Policy)
Each house government develops its own guidelines for materials that may be displayed within the residence in accordance with the postering policy. During undergraduate orientation (the period between first-year move-in and undergraduate registration day), communities are permitted to safely affix banners to their residence hall with the approval and assistance of the area director and house operation manager. All banners must be safely removed on or before undergraduate registration day.
Lofts
Lofts are prohibited in all MIT residence halls except Random Hall. If a student wishes to construct a loft, he/she must submit construction plans to the House Manager for review and approval of structural adequacy.
All lofts must comply with the following requirements:
- May not be attached to building components or be enclosed with drapes, curtains, or doors to ensure residents are visible in the event of a building fire search.
- The structure of a loft must have smooth surfaces with no protruding nails, bolts, or angled forms.
- No electrical wiring or lighting fixtures may be attached to a loft structure, as required by electrical code.
- Lofts cannot shield or block sprinklers.
- “Coffins” are prohibited.
Completed lofts are subject to final inspection and approval by the House Manager. House Managers may consult with the Environmental Health and Safety Office to confirm regulations covering location, height, and size.
Related policies
Residence Hall Damages
Residents are responsible for reporting any observed damage or broken items in their rooms, suites, floors, or common areas in Atlas.
Murals & Artwork in Residence Halls
Artwork (paintings, drawings, or sculptures) is an integral part of student culture in many MIT living groups.
Lofts in Residence Halls
Lofts are prohibited in all MIT residence halls except Random Hall and East Campus (residence-specific guidelines must be followed).
Postering in Residence Halls
Residence hall display spaces may only be used by house residents, other MIT students, and recognized MIT student organizations following these guidelines.