← Back to CollegePads

Community Guidelines

Creating a safe, respectful environment for college roommate matching

🏠 Our Mission

CollegePads exists to help college students find compatible roommates and safe housing. These guidelines ensure our community remains welcoming, respectful, and secure for everyone.

✅ What We Encourage

Authentic Profiles

  • Use recent, genuine photos of yourself
  • Write honest descriptions of your lifestyle and preferences
  • Keep your profile information current and accurate
  • Showcase your personality while being respectful

🤝Respectful Communication

  • Be polite and considerate in all messages
  • Respond thoughtfully to potential roommates
  • Ask genuine questions about living preferences
  • Be understanding if someone isn't interested

🛡️Safety First

  • Meet potential roommates in public places
  • Verify housing information independently
  • Trust your instincts about people and situations
  • Report suspicious behavior immediately

❌ What's Not Allowed

🚫Prohibited Content

  • Fake profiles or impersonating others
  • Inappropriate photos (nudity, suggestive content)
  • Hate speech or discriminatory language
  • Harassment or bullying of any kind
  • Spam or promotional content
  • Illegal activities or content

💰Commercial Activities

  • Using CollegePads for business promotion
  • Selling products or services
  • Posting rental listings as a landlord/property manager
  • Soliciting for non-roommate purposes

⚠️Harmful Behavior

  • Sharing personal information of others without consent
  • Attempting to access other users' accounts
  • Creating multiple accounts
  • Circumventing safety features or blocks

🏫 College Community Standards

🎓Student-Focused Environment

  • Age Requirement: Must be 18+ and enrolled in or recently graduated from college
  • Academic Respect: Be understanding of different study schedules and academic pressures
  • Campus Culture: Respect diverse backgrounds, majors, and college experiences
  • Housing Reality: Be honest about budget constraints and housing preferences

🛡️ Safety Guidelines

⚠️Meeting Potential Roommates

  • Public Meetings: Always meet in public places like campus cafes or libraries
  • Bring a Friend: Consider bringing a friend to initial meetings
  • Verify Identity: Confirm they attend the college they claim
  • Housing Verification: Independently verify any housing information
  • Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, trust your instincts

📱 Reporting & Enforcement

🚨How to Report Issues

  • In-App Reporting: Use the report button on profiles or messages
  • Block Feature: Block users who make you uncomfortable
  • Email Support: Contact [email protected] for serious issues
  • Emergency: Contact local authorities for immediate safety concerns

⚖️Consequences

  • Warning: First-time minor violations
  • Temporary Suspension: Repeated or moderate violations
  • Permanent Ban: Serious violations or repeated offenses
  • Legal Action: Illegal activities reported to authorities

🤝 Building a Better Community

💫Be Part of the Solution

  • Report inappropriate behavior when you see it
  • Support fellow students in their housing search
  • Share positive experiences and success stories
  • Provide constructive feedback to help improve the app

Last Updated: January 2025

These guidelines help create a safe, respectful community where college students can find great roommates and housing. Thank you for being part of the CollegePads community!