Questions to ask before moving in with a flatmate
A good conversation about routines, shared spaces, and money can make everyday life together easier.
Start with everyday routines
Talk about work hours, sleep schedules, and how often each person works from home. Discuss the kind of atmosphere you both want: quiet evenings, regular visitors, or a mix. The aim is to understand whether your expectations fit.
- When do you need quiet time?
- How do you feel about overnight guests?
- Are there preferences around cooking, smoking, or pets?
Agree on shared responsibilities
Discuss cleaning, groceries, kitchen storage, and the use of common areas. Decide whether you will share supplies, hire cleaning help, or divide tasks. Specific examples are easier to agree on than a general promise to keep things tidy.
Make money conversations explicit
Agree on each person’s rent share, how utilities are divided, who pays each bill, and when everyone settles up. Also discuss deposits and what happens if someone wants to move out. Keep a shared written record of what you decide.
- Which expenses are shared and which are personal?
- Who tracks bills and payment confirmations?
- How will you discuss a late payment or unexpected cost?