A Roommate Agreement is beneficial for several reasons:
- It establishes living arrangements and expectations
- It makes clear house rules and restrictions
- It supports roommates who wish to reinforce rules amicably
- It lessens any anxieties or doubts about a living arrangement
It's best to communicate terms and conditions with your roommate at the beginning of your relationship to avoid potential arguments down the road, and reviewing a Roommate Agreement together encourages a constructive dialogue early on. Once you've discussed the agreement, all parties should understand house rules regarding things like quiet hours, guests, rent, utilities, chores, and more.
A Roommate Agreement also helps roommates reinforce house rules. For instance, if one roommate stops performing a certain chore, the other roommate might politely point to the agreement to remind them of their agreed-upon responsibilities.
It's easier to reinforce rules, avoid conflict, and maintain a healthy relationship with your roommate when you discuss things in advance. Many couples find a Roommate Agreement helpful when they first move in with their girlfriend or boyfriend. Such agreements help to lessen anxieties or doubts about a new living arrangement.