Although I have now left university, I am still living in shared accommodation. I shared a house for my last two years at Uni too, so I’ve learned a thing or two about the dos and don’ts of house sharing.
Whether you’re a fresher just starting out or a seasoned student looking to solve an issue with a flatmate, this guide will help you navigate the sometimes tricky waters of communal living.
It’s all about doing your bit, staying respectful, and being flexible. Let’s go.
The Importance of Cleanliness
Let’s face it, nobody wants to live in a pigsty. One of the most common sources of tension in shared houses is the cleanliness (or lack thereof) of communal spaces. Here’s how to keep things spick and span without turning into a neat freak:
Tackle the Dishes
Remember those days when Mum or Dad would nag you about doing the washing up? Well, now it’s time to channel your inner parent and stay on top of those dishes.
- Wash up immediately after use: This prevents the dreaded sink mountain from forming.
- Use your own dishes: Keep a set of crockery and cutlery for personal use to avoid mix-ups.
- Create a rota: If all else fails, implement a washing-up schedule to ensure everyone pulls their weight.
Keep Communal Areas Tidy
Your bedroom might be your personal kingdom of chaos, but shared spaces should remain neutral territory.
- Wipe down surfaces after use, especially in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Put things back where you found them.
- Vacuum and mop regularly (again, a rota can work wonders here).
Bathroom Etiquette
The bathroom can be a battleground in shared houses and gets a lot of use, especially in the mornings.
- Don’t hog the shower, especially during peak times.
- Clean up any hair or toothpaste splatters after use.
- Replace the loo roll when it runs out (trust me, your flatmates will thank you).
Respecting Personal Space and Property
Living with others doesn’t mean everything is communal property. Respecting boundaries is crucial for a harmonious household.
It might seem obvious, but always ask before using someone else’s belongings. This applies to everything from kitchen utensils to clothing. A quick text can save a lot of drama later on.
Be aware of your noise levels too. We all have different schedules, so being mindful of your volume is essential.
- Use headphones when listening to music or watching videos.
- Keep voices down during late-night chats or phone calls.
- If you’re a night owl, consider investing in a pair of slippers to muffle those midnight snack runs.
Privacy matters too. Respect closed doors and personal spaces. A quick knock before entering someone’s room goes a long way in maintaining good relationships.
Keeping the Home Harmonious
Living with others requires a delicate balance of give and take. For example, do you want four different milks taking up space in the fridge, or can you share?
While it’s great to share some things, it’s important to set boundaries.
- Discuss which items are communal and which are personal.
- If you finish something shared (like milk or toilet paper), replace it promptly.
- Consider having a communal kitty for shared essentials.
Open and honest communication can prevent most flatmate conflicts like this. Don’t let small issues fester – address them calmly and directly.
Use what you know about your flatmates to influence your decisions too. For example, if you know your flatmate has an early morning exam, try to keep the noise down the night before. Heck, bring them a brew while they are cramming. A little consideration goes a long way.
Student Parties
Ah, the student party – a rite of passage for many, but potentially a source of conflict in shared houses. Here’s how to throw a bash without becoming the house pariah.
First, give notice. Always inform your flatmates well in advance if you’re planning to have people over. This gives them time to make alternative plans if they need a quiet night. It’s best to ask rather than tell too.
If you are the one being asked, don’t be inflexible. People want to enjoy time with their friends and you should let them unless there is a good reason not to, but set clear boundaries. Discuss with your flatmates:
- Which areas of the house are off-limits to guests
- What time the party should wind down
- Any house rules that guests need to follow
The morning after a party, make sure you’re up bright and early to tackle the clean-up. Your flatmates shouldn’t have to navigate a sea of empty bottles to make their morning cuppa.
Also ask yourself the question, is my house a good place for a party? If your house isn’t suitable for parties, why not consider hosting at a local pub or club instead? This can be a great compromise that keeps everyone happy, and if there are enough people going the space can sometimes be booked for free.
Financial Fairness
Money matters can be a major source of tension in shared houses. Keep things fair and square by splitting bills. Use apps like Splitwise to keep track of shared expenses and ensure everyone pays their fair share.
When it comes to rent, make sure everyone understands when rent is due and how it should be paid. Late payments can cause stress for everyone involved.
Then there are consumables. Decide early on whether you’ll share food costs or keep things separate. Most students buy their own food but share essentials via a house kitty, but if you do share food, consider a weekly shop to split costs evenly.
Significant Others
Having partners stay over can be a tricky subject in shared houses. Often flatmates have no issue so long as they aren’t hearing moans through the walls every night, but sometimes it can become an issue if a partner is constantly in the house.
It’s easiest to have an open discussion with your flatmates early on about overnight guests. Agree on how often is acceptable and any house rules that apply to visitors.
If your partner is staying over frequently, consider chipping in extra for bills or household supplies.
Keep public displays of affection to a minimum in communal areas too. Your flatmates didn’t sign up to live with a couple snogging on the sofa while they are trying to watch Netflix.