Choosing a compatible and responsible roommate is as important as choosing the perfect place to live. Living with someone in an off-campus situation is more complicated because you will have financial and legal responsibilities to each other. Talk about your expectations and living habits, and agree to some basic ground rules about parties, visitors, overnight guests, and daily chores. Who will pay the bills? Who will clean the bathroom and how often? Is it okay to use/borrow CDs, DVDs, electronics, etc? Can you share food? Is it okay if a significant other stays overnight or several nights? Enter into a lease with someone only after you have a clear understanding of each other’s expectations, and then remember to respect those expectations after you are living together.

It is important to select a roommate whom you can trust and resolve conflict with easily. When living in an off-campus rental property that includes a written lease or other contractual agreement, it is very difficult to break the lease if you have roommate problems. Tenants can and often do co-sign a lease with a roommate(s). In this case, either or both tenants can be held responsible for the entire rent, damage, or any other breach of agreement. Therefore, if a roommate moves out or causes damage to the apartment, then the remaining roommate can be held responsible for all the damages.

With busy schedules, it is easy for roommates to fall out of touch and to avoid each other after problems arise. Some roommates find it helpful to schedule a regular informal meeting time each week. This is simply a set time for roommates to be together in one place and talk on a regular basis. Sunday morning breakfast, Thursday night pizza, or Wednesday coffee are just a few ideas for keeping roommates in contact and communicating before problems occur.

NOTE:  Please be sure to check our Resources section for much more information, including additional worksheets and checklists.