What to ask before you look for a roommate
Choosing a roommate is not only about the apartment but about sharing everyday life. The right questions save you both money and nerves — ask half of them in messages, the rest in person, with your own eyes.
Ask in messages
Most of the terms become clear in the first messages — if the answers don't suit you, there is no point in meeting.
How are the rent and utilities split?
The monthly amount, electricity, gas, water and internet — who pays what and in what proportion, find out in advance.
How many people live in the apartment, and who are they?
The number of housemates, their gender, age and occupation directly shape your everyday comfort.
Is the room private or shared?
A private room or a bed in a shared one — find out in the very first message, so expectations are right.
Is there a deposit, and when is it returned?
Get the amount and the return terms in writing — an answer like "we'll see when you move out" is a warning sign.
What are the rules about guests, smoking and pets?
This is what shapes living together — if it doesn't suit you, save each other's time.
Does the landlord know the apartment is shared?
Sharing without the owner's consent can end in eviction later.
From what date can I move in, and what is the minimum stay?
Discuss the move-in date and the minimum stay in advance so your plans don't clash.
Ask in person
Meeting your housemates in person is the most important step: see both the apartment and the people with your own eyes.
What condition are the shared areas in — the kitchen, the bathroom?
See with your own eyes the places you will use every day; cleanliness shows at first glance.
Does the room have a lock and private space?
Whether your room locks and your things are safe — check on the spot.
Can I meet the housemates?
Meet the people you will live with before you move in — getting along matters more than the rent.
What are everyone's work and sleep schedules?
Night shifts, early mornings, frequent guests — make sure your daily rhythms don't get in each other's way.
How are cleaning and household chores divided?
If there is a specific system rather than "everyone for themselves", you can avoid future quarrels.
Can we agree on the terms in writing?
Put the rent, the deposit, the rules and the move-in date on paper — a verbal agreement is often forgotten.
Red flags
If any of these apply, stop and think again.
- They ask for a deposit or the first month's rent before you have seen the apartment and the housemates.
- They dodge questions about the housemates or answer vaguely.
- The rules (guests, cleaning, payment) change from one conversation to the next.
- They demand cash only, with no receipt and no written trail.
- They say the landlord doesn't know about the shared living, or hide it.
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