Roommate Rules: Tips for a Drama-Free School Year
So, it’s time to move into your college crib. You’ve got the LED lights, a speaker the size of a suitcase blasting Drake, and now… roommates.
Living with roommates can be great. With beer pong battles, all-night Madden marathons, and everyone crowding around for Sunday night football, it’s the best kind of college experience. But real talk, if there aren’t any ground rules set early, it can stir up some beef.
Here are the unspoken rules that need to be voiced to keep the peace, protect the vibe, and avoid becoming the villain in someone’s Snapchat rant.
1. Wipe It or Get Wiped
If you make a mess while trying to be the next Iron Chef, clean it up. Don’t ghost the scene after a kitchen nightmare. It might not seem like a big deal, but remember, you’re living with other people, not NPCs.
2. Rotate the Rations
Sadly, paper towels and dish soap don’t just spawn out of thin air (we wish). If you’re sharing essentials, take turns restocking them. It’s teamwork, not freeloadership.
3. Common-Area Respect
Aka don’t let yesterday’s red solo‑cup pyramid live rent‑free between the couch cushions. A tidy lounge hits different when you’re trying to chill after a long day.
4. Set a Cleaning Plan
Split chores like you split keg costs. Assign tasks, set a schedule, and stick to it. A clean space means good vibes and less drama.
5. Make a Group Chat
Texting the group makes life easier. Whether it’s for reminders, heads-ups, or sending random memes at 2 a.m., communication saves friendships and keeps the peace.
6. Ask Before Borrowing
Don’t be sus. Whether it’s a frying pan or your roommate’s sacred protein shaker bottle, always ask before using someone’s stuff. Most people are chill about sharing, but swiping without asking? That’s how friendly vibes turn into full-on rivalry.
7. Return It, No Cap
Remember to return stuff when you borrow it. And when you do, don’t hand back the iPhone charger half-chewed or the hoodie smelling like it survived a wild tailgate. Keep it fresh and clean, it’s the bare minimum.
8. Guest Heads-Up
Pregames and hangouts are *chef’s kiss*, but if you’ve got roommates, drop a quick text in the group chat to keep everyone in the loop. And yes, that includes cleaning up the aftermath. Bringing over your “special friend”? That’s cool, just make sure it doesn’t start feeling like they secretly moved in. Set some ground rules and check in with your roomies.
9. Noise Control
Your 2 a.m. shower concert or Marvel marathon might be lit, but if the house is trying to catch some Z’s, you’ll be hearing about it real quick. Be mindful of the volume during early mornings and late nights, save the main character energy for when you’re alone.
10. Spill The Beans
Don’t let small annoyances blow up into full-on war. If something’s bothering you, just say it. No passive-aggressive texts or silent treatment, just real talk. We’re all adults here (kinda).
11. Agree on temperature settings
Set the thermostat somewhere between “Antarctic chill” and “sauna vibes.” Save money on utilities and keep everyone comfy because nobody wants to fight over the thermostat or their heating bill.
12. Laundry Etiquette
Set a timer, move your load, keep it pushing, so nobody has to catch these hands over a damp pile of gym socks. We’re promoting roommate etiquette, not turning laundry day into a WWE showdown.
13. Lock up
Always double-check the doors, especially if you’re the last one out. Locking up is an easy W for everyone’s safety and peace of mind.
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Roommate life can be one of the most memorable parts of your college journey, full of laughs, late-night hangs, and good vibes all around. Stick to these rules, and you’ll keep the peace while making amazing memories with your gang.
If things ever get tricky, don’t stress—check out our blog on Resolving Conflicts with Roommates: A Guide for College Students, for clever hacks to keep things smooth and your sanity intact.
And when you’re ready to find a place that’s more than just four walls, check out our University Center apartments and Stadium Houses, built for living the real college experience.
All images are from GIPHY.COM
