Getting the right flatmate can make or break your living situation. You might have the most pretty and peaceful flat in the world, but if your roommate leaves dirty dishes piled up for a week or throws parties on weekdays well, that dreamy place can turn into a nightmare. So, before you both sign on that tenancy agreement, take a little time to get to know the person you will be sharing with. Here are the top 10 things you need to ask your potential flatmate.
1. What's the Daily Routine Like?
You don't have to have the same schedules, but it's nice to know whether your to be flatmate has morning or night shifts. If they're up watching the television at 2 a.m. and you must rise early, things might get strained.
2. Opinions About Having Guests Over?
Some people like entertaining, while others use their flat as a peaceful place. Ask them about how frequently they get visitors including friends, family, or romantic partners. Setting boundary from the starting can avoid trouble.
3. Are You Clean or More on the Messy Side?
This may sound rude, but it's one of the most significant questions. We all have our own concept of “clean” for some it may be dustless furniture for other it may be "as long as there are no insects.
4. How Do You Like to Divide Bills?
Money talk can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential. Decide early how you’ll handle rent, utilities, Wi-Fi, and other expenses. Some people like splitting evenly, others track usage.
5. What’s Your Work or Study Schedule?
If you and your flatmate are both students or young professionals, this enables you to work out quiet hours and routines. It's also good to know if your flatmate is a remote worker especially if you appreciate some space or quiet time during the day.
6. Do You Smoke or Have Any Allergies?
Straightforward, but most important. If you're a non-smoker, sharing a house with someone who smokes inside could be a deal breaker. Similarly, if you're pet-allergic and they're getting a pet better to know beforehand than afterwards!
7. How Do You Handle Conflicts or Disagreements?
This one can reveal a lot about someone’s communication style. Do they talk things out calmly or avoid confrontation? Living together means you’ll unknowingly disagree about somethings like dishes, bills, noise so it’s best to know how they handle those moments.
8. What’s Your Ideal Living Environment?
Ask them to tell you about their ideal home. Do they desire a peaceful, organized place or a social, vibrant flat? If you desire peace and they desire a party pad, you'll both be frustrated.
9. Do You Have Any Hobbies or Habits That Might Impact the Flat?
For instance, having guitar-playing at midnight, exercising in the living room, or conducting online meetings all day all these can influence how comfortable both of you are. This question just assists you in identifying any lifestyle conflicts ahead of time.
10. How Long Do You Plan to Stay?
If you're seeking long-term stability, but your to be roommate is going to be leaving in a few months, that's something you'll want to take into account. You want to know their plans, so you don't get caught with surprise rent or stuck having to find a new roommate shortly.
Final Thoughts
Finding a flatmate isn't by luck it's about being straightforward. The more honest and open one is at the beginning, the better their living life will turn out to be. Ask questions, explain your expectations, and go with your instincts. If someone is respectful, responsible you are half-way to a drama-free, happy home.
