Roomate Do's and Don'ts

Do’s

1. Do find roommates you know you can communicate with. Be willing to listen and speak openly.
2. Do be receptive to different ways of life and different values.
3. Do be courteous and respect the privacy of your roommates.
4. Do clean up after yourself in shared areas.
5. Do keep your noise at a level that does not interfere with your roommates. They may not want to hear the television going 24/7.
6. Do discuss how the rent, utility bills, cable bills, etc. will be divided.
7. Do establish ground rules on sharing of things – i.e. game systems, food, laundry detergent, dishes, etc.
8. Do share in the decorating of the common areas of your new place.
   Everyone does not care for the color purple or wants pink throw pillows in the living room.
9. Do be courteous on the frequency of guests. Establish guidelines for overnight guest stays so no one gets caught in their underwear or other embarrassing situations.
10. Do learn to compromise on issues that arise.
11. Do discuss and purchase renters insurance. It’s inexpensive and can save you a bundle in the event of a problem.
12. Do ask your roommates what you can do to be a better roommate.

Don’ts

1. Don't borrow your roommate’s personal belongings without asking.
2. Don't ask your roommates to keep unwanted secrets, i.e. something that is illegal or could be harmful to them.
3. Don't hit on or sleep with your roommate’s girlfriend/boyfriend.
4. Don't promote gossip and cliquish arguments.
5. Don't forget to use the air freshener in the bathroom when needed.