How To Solve Disputes With Roommates

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Many people save money and time spent on household responsibilities by sharing a living space with someone else. Having a roommate can have a lot of pluses: it can be fun, cost effective, and safer to live with someone else, especially when you're starting out. It's also a completely different living experience from living with parents, other family members, or a significant other. Living with someone you're not related to or in a relationship with can also mean that disagreements can (and do!) happen, and it's important to know going in that you probably won't agree about everything.

In shared housing at colleges, we rarely get to choose who we share our space with, but it can give you a taste of what living with someone else can be like. Different personalities, hygiene habits, schedules, and lifestyles can make co-habitating a challenge. One way to avoid conflict is to sit down with your roommate(s) and discuss aspects of your new living arrangement and make a written agreement. This can include division of household chores, division of bills and expenses, how food is kept (is it shared or separate; are you labeling your food containers and purchases; how long are leftovers kept in the fridge; etc), when and how many friends can come over, and much more. Writing down your expectations before choosing a roommate can also help you decide what kind of person you'd be most comfortable sharing your space with.

Leases can cover some aspects of shared living arrangements, such as the amount of rent each person is responsible for, the rules on guests and pets, and certain aspects of keeping the property clean. But most other aspects should also be addressed and put in writing outside of the lease agreement. When you're a member of our legal subscription services, you'll have access to an attorney-prepared Roommate Agreement that can help set boundaries and make your day-to-day relationship with your roommate easier. Our Roommate Agreement covers rent and utilities obligations, the use and care of each other's belongings, upkeep of the property, use of the rental unit and visitor policies, and personalized requirements for your unique situation.

Disagreements are probably unavoidable, but having house rules in order can ease tensions when problems arise. Learn more about all the benefits renters have with our legal subscription plans for individuals and families, or sign up today!