How to be a good housemate: the unwritten rules of house shares
13 October 2026
A good house share can be one of the best parts of living away from home, and a bad one can be miserable. Most problems come down to a few everyday things. Here are the unwritten rules that keep a house share running smoothly.
Agree the money early
Decide on day one how bills are split, who pays each one and when. A shared spreadsheet or a bill-splitting app avoids awkward conversations later. If bills are included in your rent, ask what's covered.
Keep shared spaces usable
Wash up after yourself, take the bins out when it's your turn and don't leave things in the shared bathroom. A simple cleaning rota on the fridge or in the house group chat works better than hoping everyone notices.
Guests and noise
Let housemates know when someone is staying over, and agree how often that's fine. Keep noise down late at night and early in the morning, especially if someone works shifts or studies.
Food and the fridge
Agree what's shared and what isn't. Ask before you use someone else's food, and replace it if you do.
Talk early, not angrily
Small annoyances grow if nobody mentions them. Raise things calmly and early, in person if you can. Most housemates are happy to fix something once they know it bothers you.
Leaving well
Give the notice you agreed, leave your room clean and settle any bills before you go. It keeps your deposit safe and your reference good.
If you are looking for a house share, StayLister's housemate profiles let you see whether you would get on before you move in.