Custom Roommate Agreement & House Rules Guide

What a good one includes

• A clear breakdown of financial responsibilities, including how rent, utilities, and household supplies are split and paid.
• A structured chore rotation schedule that clearly defines expectations for shared spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room.
• A comprehensive guest policy detailing overnight stay limits, party rules, and advanced notice requirements.
• Quiet hours and shared space guidelines that respect different work, study, and sleep schedules.
• A formal process for resolving roommate disputes and handling potential lease departures or subletting.
• A summary of local tenant rights specific to your city or state to ensure all rules remain legally enforceable.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Relying on vague verbal agreements instead of putting specific rules and financial promises in writing.
• Writing overly restrictive house rules that violate local tenant protection laws or are impossible to realistically enforce.
• Failing to establish a clear protocol for what happens if a roommate needs to break the lease early or find a replacement subtenant.
• Omitting a specific policy on security deposit refunds, which leads to bitter disputes when someone eventually moves out.

Frequently asked questions