It doesn’t matter if you know your roommates prior to living together or not. Many issues arise no matter what the circumstances. Friction in your home is always stressful and difficult to deal with. So here are four tips on how to prevent problems and handle living with roommates.

 

1. Establish the Rules – Don’t wait for an issue to arise before addressing it. If you have a pet peeve or specific request from roommates, make it known early. In doing this, you avoid a potential fight in the future.

 

2. Be Respectful – The Golden Rule reigns true with roommates. Treat your roommates how you would like to be treated. Would you like being woken up late at night by loud noises or unexpected guests? Being respectful of others living in the same area goes along way when it comes to creating a peaceful living environment.

 

3. Communicate – Nothing works better than talking things out. While some people naturally want to bottle up feelings or things that are bothering them, this passive aggressive approach makes for a hostile and tense living arrangement.

 

4. Plan – Before moving in, take inventory of what pieces of furniture, decorations, appliances, or supplies will be brought in. Avoid having duplicate items by determining who will bring what for a fully furnished and equipped home.