We all know the roommates GCSˡ rules: keep it tidy, do your dishes, do not be noisy and do not abuse of the bathroom. In general, this is A-Okay!But once said how can you push the idea a little further and make sure your roommate experience goes really well? The following are the five ground rules that should help you prevent any major conflicts with your roommates.
ˡGood Common Sense
Talk to each other
Let’s make it clear and simple: no one will ever be aware of your expectations and frustrations unless you talk about them. Staying grumpy and mumbling in your corner thinking that the others will understand the message you are trying to send is a communication tactic that has not shown any success so far.
In the same vein, when you live with roommates, you start to realize that they do not really share the same ‘tolerance level for dirtiness’ as you. What may seem completely normal for one, such as leaving the dishes to air dry, is not necessarily accepted by the rest. Before the situation turns bad, talk about it…
Listen to each other
We have been granted two ears and one mouth for a reason… It is great to learn to express what we think, but it is greater to learn to honestly listen to what the others are trying to communicate to us.
Pay close attention also to the body language of your roommates: there will be days when they won’t be the best company in the world. Stay tolerant and let them have their personal space and things will get back to normal in no-time.
Managing the hungry roommates
Unless you solve the problem by keeping an extra fridge in your and your roommates designated rooms, the space in the refrigerator is often the reason tempers escalate on the regular. Here are the most popular solutions to solve the challenge:
- Each one has their own shelf and no one borrows from the other without asking first
- Similar to point #1, but this time adding a shared shelf for condiments in order to lighten the load on the other shelves
- Going with it without any specific rules but always keeping a Sharpie to be used next to the fridge
- Having a self-service fridge for everyone, but that includes one shared expanse and bills and a lot of good will from each tenant
Managing the budget
The common jar is often the most suitable solution for all the group expanses (cable, internet, dish soap, etc.). Make a habit with your roommates out of putting the same amount of money monthly and keeping the invoices when you use from the fund to make payments. At the end of the year, you can reimburse each other in case of overpayment.
Time management
It might seem a bit intense but making a roommate schedule or calendar can often fix a lot of problems. Cleaning schedules have ended a lot of disputes (when they are followed obviously).
Same thing with evening get-togethers and parties in the apartment: write them down on the calendar. This way, your roommates can go out if they do not want to be in your way or join you and your company for a drink if they are feeling a bit more social.
FAQs
It's not just about stuff; it's about respecting boundaries and building a harmonious living space. Follow the golden rule of flatmate etiquette – communication is key.
What is good roommate etiquette? ›
Respect each other's privacy by establishing boundaries and discussing rules for entering each other's rooms. Ask permission before entering someone's room, even if the door is open. Respect each other's belongings and privacy by avoiding touching or moving anything in the room without asking first.
What are boundaries for roommates? ›
This could range from paying rent and utility bills to cleaning and maintaining common areas. Setting clear boundaries and expectations around these shared responsibilities is crucial from the beginning. Start by having an open discussion about which responsibilities each roommate is willing and able to take on.
What is the 48 hour rule for roommates? ›
The Uncomfortable Rule: if there is anything that happens in your room that makes you uncomfortable, mention it to your roommate within 24-48 hours.
Should roommates split rent equally? ›
Splitting the rent evenly: This is the simplest option, and it ensures that all roommates contribute equally to the apartment's cost. Splitting the rent based on income: This option would involve determining each person's income and then calculating a percentage of the rent each person should pay based on their income.
How often should a roommate have a guest? ›
There's no hard and fast rule about how often a roommate should have a guest. It's really dependent on what your needs are, and how often you're willing to put up with an extra human in your space. Perhaps weekends are fine, but you prefer not to have a disturbance on work or school nights.
How do you say no to your roommate? ›
Try to “show” vs. “tell.” You don't need to make a declaration to them. Politely say no thank you to their invitations to hang out. Go in your room and close the door if they are hanging out at your home.
Are people with roommates happier? ›
Based on a recent survey, students are generally happier when they live with roommates in comparison to students that live alone.
Do roommates have to be best friends? ›
“Ideally, you should pick someone to live with that you enjoy talking to and have things in common with, that way even if you don't become friends you still have that level of compatibility that will make it easier to talk to them about otherwise uncomfortable living conditions,” says another university student.
Is it OK to not be friends with roommates? ›
If you're not enjoying being around your housemates then that is absolutely fine and completely normal, stay in your room and have some alone time or, go on solo adventures around the city.
If furniture isn't going to settle the debate, consider taking into account each roommate's social life. A person who prefers peace and quiet would likely want the master bedroom because it offers more privacy.
How often should roommates have guests over? ›
There's no hard and fast rule about how often a roommate should have a guest. It's really dependent on what your needs are, and how often you're willing to put up with an extra human in your space. Perhaps weekends are fine, but you prefer not to have a disturbance on work or school nights.
What is the ideal number of roommates? ›
Three roommates
According to many people, this is the best arrangement because there is always middle ground.
