Though East Campus Village warned residents of vandalism and property damage last semester, damage reports remain high. Burnt elevator buttons, broken doors to vacant rooms, destroyed exit signs and holes punched in the walls are only a few of the damages in Building 1512, and residents may soon have to pay up.

“We’ve had to replace about 15 signs in the past couple of weeks,” said Kathryn Hall, ECV area coordinator. “And it’s rare that we are able to identify who is responsible.”

In an e-mail sent to the 384 residents Thursday, ECV housing staff expressed concerns about damage.

“This vandalism causes a safety concern in the building,” the e-mail stated. “If signs continue to be damaged, the cost for replacements and repairs will be split among residents.”

Exit signs cost about $150 each to replace, Hall said.

The vandalism poses safety hazards because the destruction of room numbers and fire exit signs could delay the time residents have to evacuate in an emergency.

Students found damaging the building may also be subject to judicial action, according to the guide, and may have their contract under review by the Housing Department, Hall said.

Rates for the 2008-09 academic year to live in Building 1512 range from $2,758 to $3,146 per semester and Hall said wear and tear damages are included in the rate.

Hall said she also believes it is up to the community to stop the vandalism.

“If you see someone on your hall or in your building destroying property, tell them to stop – it’s as simple as that.”