1.Establish some basic rules. The first thing you should do with your new roommate is to sit down and establish a short list of rules. This is a give-and-take conversation, so first list the most important things that each of you expects. Include how to divide the bills, who pays for what, policies regarding guests, cleaning schedule, and anything else you can think of.
2.Don't borrow without asking. Your roommate might have the cutest top that hasn't been worn in ages, but that doesn't give you the right to wear it without asking. She might be saving it for a special occasion. Ask permission first, and always honor her wishes. If she gives you permission, and you spill something on it, pay to have it professionally cleaned. If that doesn't work, replace the item
3.spect the other person's space. Everyone has a need for some personal space, regardless of how outgoing she is, so avoid intruding on the other person's.
4.Follow the Golden Rule. Before you take any questionable action regarding your roommate, stop and think about how you feel if the tables were turned. Following the Golden Rule can save your relationship.
5.Be respectful when inviting guests. Whether you are having someone over for a dinner party or an overnight stay, it's always a good idea to discuss this with your roommate. Unless you are co-hosting a party or other event, never expect your roommate to share in the entertainment or expenses.
6.Clean up your own messes. If you make a mess, clean it up. Don't expect your roommate to help clean up after a party, unless the two of you cohosted it. You also shouldn't leave the mess for the next day because the other person shouldn't have to face dirty dishes and crumbs when she gets up in the morning. If you share a bathroom, keep your personal belongings neat and in order
7.Keep your hands off the other person's food. When a carton of your favorite ice cream suddenly appears in the freezer, don't assume that it's half yours. Don't eat even one bite of it until you have permission from your roommate. She might be saving it for a special occasion, or she may have purchased it with the last of what was left in her food budget.
8.Respect need for quiet time. If you see your roommate reading a book, don't constantly interrupt her with conversation. If you know that she has to be at work early the next morning, keep the noise level low. One way for roommates to let each other know when they're sleeping is to have a small "sleeping" sign made that can hang from their bedroom doorknob
9.Take care of your own pets. If you and your roommate have agreed that pets are allowed, don't expect the other person to care for yours. Feed your own cat, walk your own dog, scoop your cat's litter pan, and vacuum the birdseed from beneath the cage. If your roommate feels extra generous and does it for you, show gratitude and consider doing something for her in return.
10.Don't gossip about your roommate. Living in close quarters, you're bound to discover something that would make excellent fodder for gossip. Don't do it. Remember that she has the goods on you as well, and think about how you'd feel if she broadcast your bad habits to the world.
11.Don't get your feelings hurt. Being roommates doesn't mean you have to be best friends. If your roommate makes plans without including you, accept that she has other pals she enjoys hanging out with. Besides, if you have a positive attitude about her other friends, you are likely to be included more often. Most people resent someone who clings and smothers.
12.Deal with problems quickly. As soon as you notice a problem, let your roommate know that it's time to have a talk. Go into the discussion with your point in a matter-of-fact way and avoid flinging accusations or constantly trying to correct her. Never try to deal with the situation with the silent treatment, passive-aggressive behavior, or yelling. Most problems can be worked through, but if it's something you can't agree on, you might want to consider going your separate ways.