Roommates are a good way to cut costs by sharing expenses. As you start your roommate search, determine what type of person you want to live with.

Whether that person is your best friend or someone who answers an ad, you should interview the person carefully. Make sure you are compatible. It can save a lot of frustration and problems down the road.

The Roommate Interview Questionnaire is useful to get a conversation going.  Remember, just because someone is a good friend does not mean they would make a good roommate.  Make sure you are on the same page about issues such as noise, cleanliness, overnight guests, smoking etc.

Roommate Interview Questionnaire

What areas of the living space will be private and which will be shared?

What are your housekeeping standards?

How are household chores shared?

How will kitchen space be shared (pantry, refrigerator, freezer, counter space)?

Will you be bringing a pet?

Do you have a car and how will we determine parking space preferences?

What are your needs for socializing and privacy?

How often will you have people over?

How do you feel about me having people over?

What is your temperature preference during the winter and summer?

What hours do you keep? What hours will you be out vs. hours at home?

Do you smoke, drink or do drugs?

What are your expectations around noise level?

What are your TV watching habits?

How do you deal with conflict?

Do you have stable income to pay rent?

How will utility costs be split?

Will groceries be shared or not shared?

How much notice do you need if a roommate plans to move out?

What happens if a roommate moves out?

Print the Questionnaire