Whether you’re in halls or renting with friends, student life usually involves sharing your living space with other people. Follow these simple etiquette tips to avoid becoming the annoying one that everyone secretly dislikes...

Do

…respect other people’s property.

And that includes their biscuits (however tempting that opened pack of chocolate hobnobs in the cupboard may appear).

…be considerate about noise.

Everyone is allowed to turn the volume up to 11 now and again. Just not at 3am. When your housemates are sleeping. On the eve of their last finals exam.

…your dishes!

Mess can be a major battleground in communal living spaces. To avoid arguments, it’s best to tidy up after yourself as you go.

Don’t

…hog the TV remote.

Or the bathroom. Or the Playstation. Or anything else that’s supposed to be for everyone.

…avoid communal chores.

A cleaning rota is a good idea. Being the housemate who doesn’t stick to the cleaning rota is not a good idea. There are a bunch of free apps available online for you and your housemates to keep track of household tasks.

…always fight your corner.

People can have very different ideas about where to position the sofa, how to stack a dishwasher and whether toilet paper should hang “under” or “over”. Of course, everybody thinks their right way is the right way. Trouble is, everybody else thinks their way is the right way too. Being willing to compromise could save you a lot of hassle and upset.

Just remember, your current living situation isn't forever. There will be some up and downs along the way, but if you follow these rules and be your friendly, kind and positive self, you shouldn't have too many problems rubbing along with your housemates in your new digs.

Still haven't sorted your university accommodation? Check out our friends Student Roost. They have a presence in most of the big student cities and have a great reputation for providing top quality, safe, secure accommodation!

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