Moving In? Get It In Writing

If you are moving off campus or intend to live off campus next term here is a Planet College basic advisory.

Daily living in a rental is much different than daily living in a dorm room, residence hall or Greek house.  This difference may not be evident within the general spirit of camaraderie that pervades an initial move off campus. Much friction can be avoided through the simple act of sorting out and writing down who is supposed to do what.

Figure out among you and your room mates who is responsible for what and write that down. That is it.  Write down a simple list of the basics, share of rent and utilities, chores and other maintenance responsibilities and who or which roommate is responsible for what and when that responsibility occurs. 

If you are moving in with just one room mate this can be fairly simple.  If you are assembling a group or small crowd then defining responsibilities becomes very necessary.

The reason for this is simple. The 'carefree' aspects of college life create an atmosphere of tolerance and good natured acceptance for a wide variety of people and their behaviors, which is fine as far as it goes.  Carrying it over into a daily living situation can result in misunderstandings and lead to damaging disagreements. 

Human memory is faulty.  The purpose of writing down the 'house list' and posting it where everyone can see it is to solidify the basic ground rules of your housing situation.  A falling out among friends over who's turn it was to pay the cable bill is a high price to pay and entirely avoidable.

It may seem anal but get it in writing.  And enjoy your new place!