Does Military Housing Come Furnished?
The answer is a resounding Yes and No. It depends on several factors, including the military branch, location, and type of housing. As a military personnel, understanding what to expect from military housing can help alleviate the stress of a new posting. In this article, we’ll explore the complexities of military housing and provide guidance on what’s included and what’s not.
What Is Military Housing?
Military housing, also known as privatized military housing or on-base housing, refers to the dwellings provided by the military for their personnel and their families. These homes are typically built and maintained by private contractors or developers, with some funding provided by the Department of Defense (DoD). Military housing can include single-family homes, townhouses, apartments, and dormitories.
Do Military Housing Units Come Furnished?
The answer depends on the military branch, location, and type of housing. Here are some general guidelines:
| Military Branch | Furnished Housing Units |
|---|---|
| Army | Typically, no. Most Army housing units come unfurnished, with a few exceptions for senior ranking officers or special cases. |
| Navy | Often, yes. The Navy typically provides fully furnished housing units, including furniture, appliances, and white goods. |
| Air Force | It depends. Air Force housing varies, with some units fully furnished and others unfurnished. It’s best to check with the base Housing Office. |
| Marine Corps | Yes and no. The Marine Corps provides fully furnished housing units, but exceptions may apply for senior ranking officers or special cases. |
What’s Included in Furnished Military Housing Units?
If your military housing unit comes furnished, here are some common items you can expect to find:
• Furniture: Bed frames, nightstands, dressers, couches, chairs, tables, and desks.
• Appliances: Refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, dishwashers, and washing machines.
• White Goods: Dishes, pots, pans, utensils, bedding, towels, and other essential household items.
• Lighting and Fixtures: Ceiling fans, lamps, and light switches.
• Window Treatments: Curtains or blinds.
• Utility Hookups: Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) hookups.
What’s Not Included in Furnished Military Housing Units?
While some items are provided, you may still need to bring your own:
• Personal Items: Clothing, jewelry, accessories, and other personal effects.
• Electronics: TVs, computers, phones, and other electronic devices.
• Kitchenware: Pots, pans, utensils, and dishes beyond what’s provided.
• Decorations: Artwork, rugs, and decorative items.
Unfurnished Military Housing Units: What to Expect
If your military housing unit doesn’t come furnished, here’s what you can expect:
• Blank Canvas: An empty space for you to furnish and make your own.
• Basic Infrastructure: Electrical outlets, lighting, and basic plumbing fixtures.
• HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Tips and Tricks for Furnishing Unfurnished Military Housing
• Start Early: Order furniture and appliances before arrival to ensure timely delivery.
• Check Your Lease: Review your lease agreement to understand what’s included and what’s not.
• Prioritize: Focus on essential items, like bedding and appliances, before decorative items.
• Second-Hand Options: Consider buying used furniture or appliances to reduce costs.
• Storage: Make sure to bring storage bins and containers for items not yet unpacked.
In conclusion, does military housing come furnished? The answer is a mixed bag. While some housing units come fully furnished, others don’t. Knowing what to expect can help alleviate stress and make your transition to military life smoother. By understanding what’s included and what’s not, you can plan and prepare for your new posting with confidence.
