How to Write an Effective Roommate Agreement

Considering a roommate for your next apartment move? You're not alone. A recent study revealed that over 30% of U.S. adults have lived with roommates at some stage. While sharing your space can be fun and financially savvy, it's important to lay a strong foundation. Before you dive into the day-to-day of shared living, consider drafting a detailed roommate agreement. It acts as a playbook, clarifying duties and setting the tone for a harmonious coexistence, all while complementing your lease terms.

Below, we've outlined 13 critical elements every roommate agreement should address to keep things smooth and peaceful.

How to Write an Effective Roommate Agreement

What Is a Roommate Agreement?

Unlike a roommate lease agreement, the basic roommate rental agreement is not an official legal contract. However, the apartment roommate rules will start your roommateship on a strong foot and will help each of you figure out what makes for a good roommate in each other's eyes. Creating house rules for roommates will establish good faith that you will likely follow for at least the next year. The roommate agreement is the start of a healthy living situation.

Why Do You Need a Roommate Agreement?

Even if you’re moving in with a close friend or significant other, misunderstandings can happen. Everyone has different standards when it comes to cleanliness and quiet hours. This is especially helpful if you’re moving in with somebody you’re not exactly close with. A roommate agreement will:

• Set clear expectations for bills, chores, and shared responsibilities.
• Provides a reference point for resolving disagreements.
• Builds trust and accountability from the beginning between roommates.

Without one, you risk a lot of awkward conversations or repeated conflicts about chores, noise, or guests.

What to Include in a Roommate Agreement

When it comes to the basic roommate agreement, there are some basic questions you should cover. Check out this roommate agreement checklist for some pointers.

1. Monthly Rent

The most important thing that needs to be clarified here is how your monthly rent is split up, especially on a shared lease. Be sure to figure out these terms in the beginning to avoid any future confusion, and lay out the rent amount for each person.

It's also essential to address how other shared costs, beyond just the rent, will be managed. Think about expenses like shared groceries, household supplies, or any joint subscriptions or services you might opt for. Will you have a common fund or will everyone buy separately? Who is in charge of keeping track?

Make sure to touch on the protocol for what happens if someone is late on their share. Clear communication about these often-overlooked details can be the key to a smoother cohabitation experience.

2. Security Deposit

The terms for your security deposit are usually laid out in your lease agreement. However, you might consider splitting the security deposit by something like room size. This section is also an excellent place to detail roommate guidelines to establish what happens if one roommate has to leave the apartment early.

In addition to the split, consider how the return of the security deposit will be managed at the end of the lease. List any deductions due to damages, and how these will be divided among the roommates.

3. Utility Bills

It's pretty typical for roommates to split the utility bill evenly, but if you want to get more detailed, this is the place to do it. For instance, if one roommate works from home and uses more electricity, it might be worth adjusting the split accordingly.

Beyond the split, it's also crucial to determine how the bill will be paid. Who will be in charge of receiving the bill, reviewing it, and ensuring it's paid on time? Ironing out these responsibilities upfront helps avoid potential misunderstandings or missed payments in the future.

4. Food Sharing

If you plan on sharing everything, you might need to figure out arrangements for a grocery shopping schedule. If you only plan to share a few things, spell this out.

Setting boundaries around shared items will definitely help maintain a good relationship among roommates. For those of you thinking of fully diving into the communal lifestyle, it's beneficial to chalk out a grocery shopping routine. This ensures everyone's contributing and there's always a steady flow of essentials.

However, if you're leaning more towards a mix of shared and private items, clarity is key. List out what's up for common use and what's off-limits. It might seem trivial now, but trust me, distinguishing between 'our cereal' and 'my cereal' can save a lot of morning squabbles!

5. Cleaning Schedules

Getting clear on cleaning is a game-changer for living with roommates. No one likes the mystery of 'Whose turn is it to clean the bathroom?' or finding the kitchen in chaos after a long day. By nailing down cleaning responsibilities upfront, you're setting the stage for a clutter-free and tension-free apartment.

Think about mapping out a cleaning schedule or even designating specific chores to each person. Maybe one of you loves vacuuming while the other prefers tidying up the living room? Whatever your arrangement, the key is consistency and clarity. A proactive approach to this often overlooked detail can make co-living feel more like a breeze and less like a chore.

6. Bathroom Schedules

Managing bathroom time is crucial when you have multiple roommates and limited bathroom space. And despite what many people think, it's easier than it sounds. If everyone's vying for the shower during the morning rush, a simple bathroom schedule can be a lifesaver.

Just jot down everyone's work or school timings and carve out specific slots. This ensures everyone has their dedicated time without the morning chaos. It's all about efficiency and making sure no one's routine gets derailed.

7. Quiet Hours

Sleep is sacred, and when you've got an early alarm, it's even more crucial. So, if you're a light sleeper or those early morning shifts are calling your name, it's wise to lay down some 'quiet time' rules in the roommate agreement.

All it takes is a chat about everyone's schedules and settling on a few hours where the volume goes down and peace reigns. Setting these boundaries ensures everyone gets their rest and respects each other's needs. After all, a well-rested roommate is a happy roommate!

8. Guest Policies

While your lease might give you the basics on guest policies, there's a personal side to this too. Everyone's got different comfort levels, especially when it comes to frequent guests like a roommate's significant other.

It's essential to have an open conversation about it. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed with someone's partner becoming an unofficial third roommate, it's time to set some boundaries. Agreeing on guest frequency or specific 'heads-up' timeframes can make living together a lot more comfortable for everyone involved.

9. Pets

Other common roommate rules include those surrounding pets. Even if the lease says they're allowed, living with a furry friend (or any pet, for that matter) can be a different story for everyone involved.

Maybe you have allergies, or perhaps you're just not into the idea of an unexpected 4 a.m. wake-up call from a chatty parrot. Whatever the case, it's a good idea to sit down and chat about it. Laying out some ground rules and expectations ensures everyone feels at ease in their safe space.

10. Mealtimes

Cooking can become cramped in a smaller apartment kitchen. To avoid stepping on each other's toes it's wise to cover mealtimes in the agreement.

It's all about finding a rhythm that works for everyone. Whether it's setting up a cooking schedule or designating certain shelves in the fridge, a bit of coordination goes a long way in keeping the kitchen harmony alive.

11. Temperature Expectations

Beyond just being a matter of comfort, heating and cooling can really add up on the bills. We all have that ideal thermostat setting, but in a shared space, it's essential to find a middle ground.

So, sit down and discuss what works for everyone. Whether it's agreeing on a specific temperature for winter and summer or setting rules for when to crank up the heat or AC. There's always a way to ensure everyone feels cozy without breaking the bank.

12. Move-Out Procedures

Move-out procedures should be detailed in your lease agreement, but you should explain who is responsible for what among the roommates.

When it comes to moving out, things can get a bit tricky. Sure, your lease might have the basics down, but discussing specifics with your roommates is still necessary.

Who's handling which tasks? Maybe one of you is great with organizing, while the other's got the final cleaning handled. Having a chat about everyone's responsibilities ensures a smooth move-out process without last-minute surprises or stress.

13. Communication Styles

Sometimes things don't go as smoothly as we'd like. When issues pop up, how are you going to handle them? Communication is the backbone of any good relationship, especially with roommates.

Setting clear expectations about how to approach and resolve problems is vital. Are you all about face-to-face chats? Or maybe a regular roommate meeting? Whatever the method, it's all about ensuring open lines of communication so that small hiccups don't turn into big headaches.

Roommate Agreement Template

How Do You Resolve Conflicts with a Roommate?

Even with a strong roommate agreement, conflicts can still arise and should be handled proactively.

• Address problems early rather than letting resentment build over time
• Schedule monthly check-ins to discuss shared living arrangements and prevent small issues from escalating
• Reference your roommate agreement as a shared starting point when disagreements occur
• Involve a neutral third party (landlord, resident advisor, or mediator) if problems persist despite direct communication

Taking these steps helps maintain a healthy living environment and stronger roommate relationships.

Need a New Place?

Is a roommate agreement legally binding? While the answer is no, it is still a helpful practice to establish the basic ground rules. With a roommate agreement, you can ensure that you and your roommate have an understanding of responsibilities and how to be respectful of one another.

And if things go well and you want to fund a new place once your lease is up, turn to Apartment List and we've got your back. Take our personalized quiz to find apartments that fit both your preferences. A few clicks you'll find your perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roommate Agreements

How do I make a roommate agreement?

Write down expectations for rent, bills, chores, guests, and daily living rules, then review them together and have all roommates sign the agreement.

Is a roommate agreement legally binding?

A roommate agreement is not legally binding like a lease, but it can serve as written evidence in disputes, especially in small claims court.

What are common roommate agreement rules?

Typical rules cover rent payments, utility splits, cleaning schedules, quiet hours, guest policies, and how to share or not share food and household supplies.

What is the golden rule for roommates?

Treat your roommate the way you want to be treated—respect their space, belongings, and lifestyle just as you expect yours to be respected.

What should you not share with roommates?

Avoid sharing personal items like toiletries, electronics, or anything that could create tension if damaged or overused.

How often should roommates have guests over?

Guest frequency depends on comfort levels, but most agreements set expectations around advance notice and limiting overnight stays to avoid crowding.

How often should roommates clean?

Cleaning should be done weekly for shared spaces, though specific chores can be rotated or divided to keep responsibilities balanced.

Can roommates have overnight guests?

Yes, as long as it’s discussed in advance and agreed upon, with boundaries set to prevent overnight guests from becoming unofficial roommates.

What to do with uncooperative roommates?

Address the issue directly, refer back to the agreement, and if problems continue, involve a landlord, mediator, or consider finding a new living arrangement.