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Residence Hall Maintenance

Living on campus should feel comfortable and safe. SHSU Residence Life Facilities Maintenance is here to ensure a quick response to repair needs and health concerns for our students.

Repairs

What Should I Do?

Some maintenance issues require special attention, like pests or environmental concerns. Use the resources below to learn what to do if you encounter common problems such as bed bugs, mold, or bats in your residence hall.

What are bed bugs?
  • Bedbugs are reddish-brown, oval-shaped insects about 3/8 inch long.
  • They hide in seams of mattresses, furniture, and bedding—not on hosts.
  • While their bites can itch and cause irritation, they do not transmit diseases.

If you suspect bed bugs:

  • Do not move personal belongings to avoid spreading them.
  • Contact your RA or Residence Hall Director immediately, or submit a work order.
  • Professional pest control will inspect and treat as needed.

Prevention Tips:

  • Inspect secondhand furniture before bringing it inside.
  • Check luggage and clothing after trips.
  • Keep rooms clean, vacuum regularly, and reduce clutter.
  • Report visible mold, strong odors, or persistent moisture immediately.
  • Ventilate rooms, use exhaust fans, and avoid blocking air vents to prevent growth.

Huntsville is home to one of the most remarkable urban bat colonies in Texas. A large maternity roost of Mexican free-tailed bats has occupied an old cotton warehouse near the Walls Unit prison since the late 1990s. The colony is estimated to swell to nearly a million bats during peak season, making it nearly as large as Austin’s famous bridge colony.

The warehouse, once slated for demolition, has faced delays due to both structural concerns and the protected status of the bats. Community interest has also played a part. Residents have rallied to preserve the bats’ habitat, prompting state agencies to seek more balanced solutions. In recent years, TDCJ has worked with Texas Parks & Wildlife and Bat Conservation International to stabilize the structure and explore safe relocation options.

Potential Risks & What to Do

  • Health & Rabies Risk: Bats can carry rabies. If you’re bitten, scratched, or come into contact with a bat’s saliva, wash any wound thoroughly and seek medical care immediately.
  • Do Not Touch or Capture: Never handle a bat yourself. If you find one inside your room or in common areas, report it immediately.
  • Report Through Official Channels: Contact your RA or Facilities Maintenance (936-294-4474) as soon as possible. Let them coordinate with wildlife professionals who are trained to handle bats safely.
  • Do Not Release Suddenly: In case a bat must be captured (by professionals), don’t release it without consulting a health authority—rabies testing or observation may be necessary.
  • Avoid Contaminated Areas: Don’t touch droppings (guano) or nesting materials. Let trained personnel manage any cleanup using proper safety gear.