Cross posted: What do I ask/demand of a potential roomie?

[Anonymous]

I posted this in the Off Topic forum but I figure, my fellow single moms might be a good resource too

I found someone for a coabode situation. Her need for housing is ASAP, so I expect things will move pretty quickly...

It's been a long time since I had a roomie, and they were girls I was either matched with by the college or I knew them well before we moved in together.

My question: How do you evaluate a roommate? Would you go so far as to demand (and offer in return) credit reports, pay stubs, background checks? Professional and personal references? Rental history contacts?

Not sure how the dance of mutual courtship goes in this economic/platonic situation.

Thank you for any feedback!

[Anonymous]

When I had a roommate, I did a lease. She had the right to privacy in her room(s), although I could go in if I thought something was going to damage the house structurally, etc. I had the right to privacy in my room(s). We both had rights to the common areas. I spelled out the term of the lease, the amount of rent she had to pay, late fees, that her share of the utilities was included, and that she was responsible for installing and paying for her own landline if she wanted one. (I wired the house for a separate line in her room, and a jack was also available in the living room). I also specified that she was in violation of the lease if she engaged in any illegal activity, or any of her guests did. And I spelled out how much notice I had to give to break the lease under these terms. I spelled out how much notice she had to break the lease as well.

I'd at least meet with her, if you haven't already. Get a feel for whether the two of you are compatible on life issues. Do you both like to party? Or do you want it quiet in the house? All those sorts of things you think could cause conflict in a long-term living arrangement...

[Anonymous]

If you go to the Co-Abode website, there is a checklist that both parties should fill out. It was very helpful to review important items that they suggested...