What you need
- Notebook or shared digital document
- List of household topics to cover
- Calendar or scheduling app
Every step
- 1
Make a list of key topics to include
Include chores, payment timing, guest policies, quiet hours, kitchen usage, and how to handle shared purchases. For example, decide to address cleaning the bathroom, splitting electric bills, and agreements about overnight guests.
CHECKPOINT · Topics prioritized and listed - 2
Draft clear rules or expectations for each topic
For example, specify: 'Each roommate cleans the bathroom every other Saturday,' 'No guests after 10 pm Sunday–Thursday,' and 'Grocery bills for shared basics split 50/50.' Be specific to avoid misunderstandings.
CHECKPOINT · Drafted rules for each item - 3
Discuss the draft together and make compromises
Meet with your roommates to review the draft. For instance, one wants no guests, the other allows occasional friends. Agree on a compromise: up to two overnight guests per month with advance notice.
CHECKPOINT · All roommates have provided input - 4
Write the final agreement and set a revision plan
Combine everyone’s input into a final document, such as: 'Quiet hours from 11 pm–7 am.' Decide to review the agreement monthly to address new issues—use a shared calendar reminder.
CHECKPOINT · Final agreement drafted and shared - 5
Sign and store copies of the agreement
Have each person sign the document or acknowledge electronically. For example, everyone emails back an 'I agree' to a shared Google Doc. Store the agreement in a shared digital folder or a folder by the fridge.
CHECKPOINT · All roommates have a copy with signatures
Common mistakes
- Check that the plan fits your lease, housing rules, and applicable requirements. It is not a substitute for tenancy or legal advice.
- Record what everyone has actually agreed; do not assign obligations to an absent roommate.
Finished when
Written, signed, and shared agreement, with a plan for regular updates.
Questions about this task
What if a roommate won’t agree to certain rules?
List their concerns and look for middle ground. If compromise isn’t possible, note dissent in the agreement and document choices to revisit later or seek mediation if serious.
Can a roommate agreement be changed after signing?
Yes, schedule reviews (monthly or as needed) to change or add rules. Note the revision date and have all roommates agree to amendments, in writing or digitally.
Make these steps fit your situation.
Ask a question about this task or prepare a draft you can review.
Work through it with meHelp me make it