subject: How To Resolve Roommate Issues In An Apartment [print this page] When living with a roommate, whether it's a complete stranger
or someone you've known for years, it's possible issues
will come about that cause frustration or arguing among the two of
you. This is especially true in a college setting or if you're
moving to a new city, as it's possible you'll get a
random roommate. When these issues occur, the answer is usually simple
- and can be easily resolved with a little communication.
Here are a few ways to get rid of the tension between roommates in
your apartment:
Make an Agreement
Make a written or verbal agreement with your roommates, also make sure they are well informed of the arrangements you have made. If you can do it before moving in, great! Otherwise, sit down and discuss the issues with your roommate and come up with solution when it occurs. Ask questions like:
1. How will you split errands?
2. How often do you plan to clean the apartment?
3. Will you have visitors over during the week? If so, it may be helpful to set a curfew on how long they'll stay.
4. How will you split apartment rent and monthly bills?
1. How will you split responsibilities?
2. How often do you plan to clean the apartment?
3. Will you have guests over during the week? If so, it may be helpful
to set a curfew on how long they'll stay.
4. How will you split apartment expenses and monthly bills?
Find a reasonable solution to the problem -This might involve both of you and your roommate. Find a solution so that you'll get what you desire without hurting each other. You also can ask your roommate for a better, reasonable solution.
Explain your side - When explaining your side of the argument, avoid pointing faults or placing blame on your roommate if possible. You will only ruin your companionship even more. Consider using statements that begins with " I fell...." it will make your roommate less defensive. You should also listen to your roommate's side of the story as well.
Find a mediator - If you can't come up with a good solution, find a non-bias friend that can help mediate the situation. It will help both of you to come up with a reasonable resolution.
The tips above will come in very handy if you're having squabbles with your roommate. Just be sure to keep it in mind next time around. They'll save you from strain, tension and time, and it will help you be a better person.
