If you are leaving for a few days during reading weeks or the holiday break, follow these guidelines. If you are staying, here is what we have prepared.

If you're leaving

  • Please follow these rules if you leave for the break, or even just for a day or two. If you fail to follow them and damage occurs, you could be charged for the cost of repairs.
  • Close and lock all windows and doors. If you have problems with a window or door, you must submit a service request and notify reception before you leave. Turn off the lights.
  • Empty all your waste containers, including recycling and compost bins, and place them in the appropriate location. Empty your fridge of perishable items, but leave it plugged in. Put all food away so you don’t attract bugs.
  • If there’s a thermostat in your room or unit, set it no lower than 15 °C.
  • Make sure that any heat vents, radiators, baseboard heaters or convectors are clear of any obstructions.
  • Unplug all unnecessary electrical appliances. Leave your fridge plugged in.
  • Ensure that your unit is clean and tidy, and don’t forget anything you need when you leave. You might have a new roommate upon your return.
  • To avoid door unlocking fees, don’t leave your keys behind when you go, and consider setting yourself a reminder so you don’t forget them when you head back to campus.
    • Cancel all food deliveries scheduled for when you’re away.
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Important

All residents will receive an email prior to the holiday period containing additional information.

If you're staying

Please note many campus and residence administrative services will either shut down or operate on a reduced schedule during the holiday break.

Residences remain open during the holiday break identified by the University; residence administrative services, like others on campus, will either shut down or operate on a reduced schedule during the break. Students are free to leave for the duration of the break, part of it, or stay in their room until the start of the new term.

Please note that all access doors to the residences will be locked at all times during the holiday period. Residents must have their access cards with them in order to enter the buildings.

  • Inspections: The Housing Service will inspect each building for safety and prevention purposes. Room cleaning and inspections will be performed where necessary to prepare rooms for residents arriving in the winter term. Please note that the inspectors will lock your doors once they’ve finished. For that reason, make sure you have your access card or keys with you. If you forget them, you’ll be charged door unlocking fees. Keep an eye on your email for the inspection dates.
  • Security: As a reminder, access doors to the residences are locked, so ensure you have your access cards, your keys and a valid photo ID with you at all times. All security rules remain in effect: make sure you don’t let anyone in after you, don’t lend your access card to anyone, and report anything suspicious.
  • Receptions: The 90U reception will remain open. Some receptions will be temporarily closed over the holiday period, and services will be limited. If you need, you can call the reception at 613-562-5885, or email them at [email protected].
  • Guest access: The guest registration policy remains in effect. Each resident can host up to two guests, and their host must sign them in using the Residence Guest Check In form.
  • Dining Hall: The Dining Hall will remain open. If you currently have a meal plan, you’ll still be able to use it. You can also pay at the door. Check the Dining Hall hours and menu.
  • University of Ottawa Sports facilities: Check the sports facilities’ hours of operation to learn more.
  • Residence Life: The Residence Life team will be organizing some activities for you. More details will be shared with you in another email.
  • Hot water: Since water consumption will be reduced, it could take longer for your water to heat up. Let it run for a little longer than usual, but don’t leave it unattended.
  • Mail and delivery: Mail delivery may or may not continue in your building during this period. You will receive an email containing additional information.

Mental health resources: If you or someone close to you needs help or support during the holiday period, here are the medical and mental health support options available to you. Please note that the wellness lounges (90U and UCU 205) will be closed during the holiday break.

Service requests: For standard requests, please fill out the online service request form. Requests will not be reviewed on December 25, December 26 or January 1. For urgent requests (water damage, locks, heating interruptions, etc.), call Protection Services at 613-562-5411.

Emergencies: Call Protection Services at 613-562-5411.

Contact Housing Services

Residence client services

90 University Private, Room 143
Ottawa ON, K1N 1H3

613-562-5885
1-888-564-4545 (Canada/United States)      
[email protected] 

August 11, 2025 to May 7, 2026 
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

May 8, 2026 to August 7, 2026 
9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Closed on weekends and holidays

Assignment and Off-campus housing

To book an in-person appointment with an off-campus housing expert, save time and join the virtual line using the 
QLess virtual line system. You will receive a notification when it's your time to be served. 

90 University Private, Room 145
613-562-5885
[email protected] 

Summer accommodations

Group reservations:
613-562-5800 ext. 4424
[email protected]

Individual reservations:
1-888-564-4545 (Canada/United States)      
[email protected]

Book online