Basic Roommate Etiquette: Tips for Smooth Living

Living with a roommate can be great, but it does come with its challenges. On the plus side, sharing a place means splitting rent and utilities, and often sharing the cost of larger purchases like a couch or TV. You also gain a live-in buddy for movie nights, trying new recipes, exploring the city, or simply talking about your day. Another is that you won’t be stuck with all the housework. Whether you rotate chores or divide tasks differently, sharing these responsibilities can be a big relief.

But it’s important to understand that adjusting to living with a roommate, whether you know each other or not, takes some effort, which is why following some basic roommate etiquette is essential.

First things first: Being a great roommate starts with respect and kindness. Sure, living with someone new can feel a bit awkward at first, but if you stay calm and friendly, it’ll make the whole adjustment process smoother. For example, if you’re not sure where to put your stuff, ask your roommate how they feel about it instead of just assuming.

Communication is a big deal, too. Whether you’re chatting about how you’re feeling or setting up house rules, talking it out is important. For instance, if you’re planning a movie night with friends, let your roommate know. This way, everyone understands each other’s needs and can live together more peacefully.

If you’re thinking about changing something in the shared space or borrowing something of theirs, always ask first. Don’t just assume your roommate will be okay with it. If you want to borrow their snack, ask if it’s okay before digging in.

When it comes to inviting guests over, don’t surprise your roommate. A heads-up is a good idea because guests can disrupt things and make the shared space feel cramped. Just asking, “Hey, is it alright if my friend comes over for a bit?” can prevent any potential issues.

If something’s bothering you, speak up. It’s better to address problems right away rather than letting them build up. If your roommate is being really loud while you’re working or studying, let them know politely. Focus on the issue and how it affects you, without blaming them directly.

Respect each other’s personal space. Set some basic rules about bedrooms, kitchen shelves, and bathroom toiletries. This helps everyone feel a bit more private and comfortable.

Remember no snooping. Keep your curiosity in check and avoid going through your roommate’s personal stuff. And, of course, do your part to keep the place clean and pay your bills on time.

Roommate etiquette might look a bit different depending on whether you're in a college dorm, a fraternity or sorority house, or sharing a house or an apartment with a friend or stranger. But no matter where you are, the basics are the same: be respectful, communicate clearly, and keep things tidy. Following these simple rules will make shared living a lot more enjoyable for everyone involved