EHS partners with Fraternity & Sorority Commons (FSC) and FSC chapter leadership to conduct property reviews of FSC chapter houses each fall and spring semester.
These reviews play a vital role in supporting fire and life safety standards as well as helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for chapter residents, guests, and the surrounding community.
This page provides information about property reviews, chapter responsibilities, and helpful links to support chapters.
- Property Review Scheduling: EHS coordinates the FSC Property Review schedule each semester and communicates dates and times to chapter presidents, Housing Corporation representatives, and FSC leadership.
- Frequency: Property reviews are conducted each fall and spring semester.
For RPI-owned chapter housing, the New York State Office of Fire Prevention & Control (NYS OFPC) will conduct a state-required inspection during the fall semester. EHS and FSC will conduct an FSC Property Review during the spring semester. - Notice: Chapters receive advanced notification of scheduled property reviews.
Property reviews typically cover a range of fire and life safety checks, which may include but are not limited to:
- Reviewing fire and life safety documentation (e.g., fire alarm system inspections, boiler certifications, kitchen hood cleaning, fire extinguisher records, and fire drill reports).
- Verifying clear exit paths and unobstructed egress routes inside and outside the building.
- Random testing of emergency lighting and illuminated exit signs.
- Confirming proper functioning of smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.
- Checking the placement and use of fire extinguishers.
- Educating chapters on prohibited appliances, overloaded outlets, or daisy chaining with unapproved power strips are in use.
- Advising on the safe storage of combustible and flammable materials.
- Housekeeping checks in kitchens, restrooms, and exterior areas for cleanliness and safety.
- Assessing the condition of walls, roofs, doors, and windows for safety hazards or openings.
Chapters play a key role in maintaining safety and compliance. Responsibilities include:
- Completing all required outside vendor inspections.
- Conducting regular chapter house fire drills and self-inspections.
- Assigning a chapter house safety officer or risk manager.
- Providing training for members on fire safety and the property review process each semester.
- Having the chapter president or designee accompany staff during property reviews.
- Following up on any findings or required corrective actions.
If you have any questions about FSC Property Reviews, please contact EHS@rpi.edu.
