Party Smart - Responsible Social Hosting
Before the Party:
Clear it with your roommates—establish “ground rules” about your party, such as
bedrooms are off-limits to party guests.
Talk to your neighbors prior to having a party. Introduce yourself and exchange
numbers if possible. This relationship will allow your neighbor to contact you first if any
problems arise. Let them know the date of the party, when it should end, and how
many guests you expect to show up.
Set music volume. Noise complaints are the No. 1 reason police are called to break
up a gathering. Go outside the house or apartment to hear how loud the music is
and make a determination whether it is reasonable. Keep guests inside the house to
reduce the noise.
Set size of gathering. Avoid advertising on social media; unwanted guests could
cause major problems.
Register your party with the ODU police. They will talk to you beforehand about good
strategies to reduce your liability as party host and keep your gathering safe.
Control the alcohol. As party host, you have the responsibility to make sure only
those over 21 are drinking alcohol. Implement strategies to easily identify those under
21, such as using wristbands for those over 21.
Let your guests know the appropriate place to park. Saving parking spaces for your
neighbors is always a nice gesture.
Lock doors to private areas, such as bedrooms, and hide valuables because thefts
can occur during parties.
Have plenty of trashcans, non-salty food, and non-alcoholic beverages available
for your guests.
24 | Off-Campus Living Guide