Damage Fee Appeal

Damage fees are assessed when there’s physical damage to a residence hall room or community space that goes beyond normal wear and tear. This includes both room damages (specific to your assigned space) and community damages (shared responsibility charges applied to a floor or hall). 

Why You Might Be Charged 

If a charge appears for a damage, it’s usually because the issue wasn’t reported within the first week of move-in using a maintenance request. UHRE assumes no responsibility for unreported damages rests with the residents of that space. 

How to Appeal 

  1. Log in to Cards Nest → Dispute Fees and choose “Damages” within ten (10) days of the fee being posted.
  2. Upload any supporting documentation (photos, maintenance requests, move-in inspection records, etc.).
  3. The external committee will review your case and email a decision within 21 business days. 

What Might Be Approved 

Appeals may be approved in cases when you can show that the charge was applied in error or that circumstances outside of your control contributed to the damage. Examples could include: 

  • The damage was pre-existing or previously reported through a maintenance request.
  • The damage resulted from a building or maintenance issue (for example, a leak that caused water damage).
  • The fee was charged to the wrong room or resident. 

What Might Not Be Approved 

Appeals are generally not approved when the damage could have been prevented, reported, or verified at the time of move-in or during occupancy. Examples include: 

  • Damage not reported during the first-week inspection or maintenance request period.
  • Normal wear and tear (paint scuffs, small nail holes, etc.).
  • Community damages where the responsible individual can’t be identified.
  • Claims submitted without verifiable documentation or evidence.