On-Campus Housing

Finding the Right Roommate

Take your time and don't panic. The task of choosing a roommate needs to be taken seriously. The person or persons with whom you decide to live can affect the quality and productivity of your college experience.

Make sure that potential roommates have similar needs in terms of amenities and budget. Determine how much privacy you need. Are you willing to share a bedroom? Can you afford your own room? Find out how long the roommate(s) anticipate residing in the apartment (including summer breaks, etc.). Discuss what furniture, appliances and household items each roommate will provide.

Ask about your roommates' financial situation. Most rental contracts have a "joint and several liability clause," meaning that you can be held financially responsible if your roommates fail to pay their share of rent. Find out if your roommates expect to share the costs of buying food and the responsibilities of preparing it. Discuss how bills such as utilities, household supplies, etc., will be shared and paid.

Be sure to ask personal questions of the potential roommate. Ask about their feeling about smoking, alcohol and drugs, cleanliness, partying, studying and sleeping hours, overnight guests, musical likes and dislikes, etc.

Have roommate(s) sign a roommate agreement covering rent payment, security deposits, payment for utilities, cleaning, kitchen use, personal property, guests, etc. Sample agreements are available at the Office of Housing Administration.