Collocation is an opportunity for students

Roommate agreement help sharing people entering into a comfortable communal living situation not only involves finding someone who is compatible, but who is also willing to respect the legal implications of splitting a shared space. In other words, living with a roommate is much more than agreeing on wall color.

Agreement when living with a roommate

Most people looking to live with a roommate will usually enter into an agreement that has been imposed by either the landlord, a lease or the person living in the space. It is important to know that roommate agreement exist and can be signed by both parties to create a legal outline for the responsibilities of living in a shared space. More than just general guidelines, a roommate agreement specifies the present and future expectations of each party, regarding, for example, how to manage chores, noise or potential pets. Knowing where each party stands is a good way to ensure a successful house-sharing situation. 

Roommate agreement must be shared

Living with a roommate can be a rewarding experience but also one fraught with complications. By protecting one’s rights, unnecessary headaches can be avoided down the line. The roommate agreement will stipulate how the security deposit, rent or utilities are paid, as well as how unexpected expenses might be handled. It can also serve as a reminder that certain boundaries should be respected, such as personal space, quiet hours or even leftovers.

No one wants an uncomfortable living situation. The idea of the roommate agreement is to lay all cards on the table and let the other party know what one expects so that there are no surprises. Although proposing certain provisions might be initially awkward, it will undoubtedly avoid any future confrontations or embarrassment.