Living with roommates can be as exciting as it can be hectic. Though, you enjoy every freedom, but privacy is at times lost. Disputes over niggling issues like paying rent, unwanted guest, dirty dishes, and late night noise during examinations can be common. However, these things can easily be dealt with.

'Understanding' is the key: Never let small issue grow into simmering resentment. Each roommate should be allowed to use a comparable portion of utilities.

In many paying guest accommodations or rented house, one room can be better than others because of its available features and you may want to occupy it for yourself. If this is the case, you should discus it with your roommates and asked them to set rents for each room before occupancy is allotted. Going with such an option will let you all choose rooms based on personal preferences as well as finances.

Dividing Utilities among roommates: If using the utilities is not included in the rent, roommates must decide to split the cost. Paying electricity bills, water bills can be a source of conflict, but they provide a room for creating more equitable arrangement among roommates. Ethically, bills and charges for other utilities should be shared equally. The same rule applies for cable bills as well or you can divide the responsibilities as you can pay the gas bill whereas your roommate can pay for cable. Also ensure whether using or borrowing each other's property is fine.

Moving into an already occupied apartment: At times, most of us feel insecure regarding moving into an already occupied place. Also, you may find that your share of rent has already been established for you. Increase in rent and other costs are usually passed to the new tenant. If it is not equal, you must ask for the price distribution. If they hesitate to let you know about this information, you may want to search elsewhere.