Frequently Asked Questions
What size are the beds?
Standard twin. There are a limited number of XL twins beds available by request only. Submit the request to the property manager here.
Are private rooms available?
Yes, there are 18 private rooms available for the 2025-2026 school year. Returning students and subsequently, students who pay the $1,260 reservation deposit, are accepted first. The balance of the rooms are then granted on a first come, first serve basis using the date of receipt of your application, deposit and completed lease.
What items do I need to bring to the apartments?
You will need your own bed and bath linens, shower curtain, pots & pans, utensils and any other personal items. One lamp is provided per bedroom. Small kitchen appliances such as toasters and coffee makers are allowed. A microwave is provided.
Can the apartment be toured prior to renting?
Absolutely! The apartments are managed by SRI One, LP. Tours can be scheduled by calling Penn State New Kensington or via email @ nittanyhighlands@gmail.com .
How are the roommates assigned? What happens if incompatible?
You can request a roommate on your application and management will do their best to make that match. If you don't have a roommate in mind, the property manager will assign roommates based on your major and class status in terms of freshman, sophomore, junior or senior. There are NO Co-Ed rooms. If incompatible, there may be a room reassignment at the discretion of the property manager and resident assistant.
Are utilities included in the rent?
Utilities included in the rent are: Gas, electric, water, sewer, trash and Wi-Fi. Cable (serviced through Comcast) is the responsibility of the roommates.
Are pets or animals allowed?
No pets or animals are allowed in the building.
How are building maintenance and repairs handled?
There is a handyman on staff who will compete repairs when repair requests have been made. Repair requests are submitted through this website on the Maintenance page.
When will I receive my roommate name and contact information?
This information will be communicated to you in late July.
When will I be notified if I will have a private room?
Private bedrooms are confirmed in the order that we receive the full security deposit, the August/May rent payment and the completed lease. This is necessary to accommodate all of the housing requests.
What security measures are in place to make sure the building is secure?
For the safety and security of all residents, the door to the building is locked 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The entrance doors have an electronic key fob system. Individual apartments are also secured by deadbolt lock and a metal plate is installed between the door and cement door frame to prevent tampering with the lock. There are 15 security cameras throughout the building and parking lot that record 24 hours per day. A fire detection network covers the entire building in case of an emergency. Upper Burrell Police Department is less than a mile away, and the campus university police officer has jurisdiction extending from the campus to the property where the apartment building is located.
Is the building owned by Penn State University?
No, the building is owned and operated by a private company, SRI One, LP, whose management staff oversee all the aspects of the building. Any questions or issues arising from the tenants needs to be sent to the management staff to address. Penn State University does have any jurisdiction over the building.
Where can students receive their mail?
Each apartment has its own mailbox in the lobby where students can receive personal mail and packages. There are several package mailboxes to accommodate larger mail items. Mail should be addressed to:
(Student Name)
793 Myers Drive, Apartment # ____
New Kensington, PA 15068