Finding suitable student accommodation can be a daunting task, and sharing it with others can be equally challenging. Living in shared student accommodation can be a unique experience, and it comes with its own set of rules and etiquette. Some of these rules are often unwritten, but they are crucial in maintaining a healthy and harmonious living environment.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the unwritten rules for sharing student accommodation. We will explore the dos and don’ts of living with your peers, including how to communicate effectively, divide chores, and respect each other’s personal space. We will also discuss the importance of setting boundaries, being mindful of noise levels, and being considerate of each other’s schedules.
Whether you’re a first-time student or an experienced flatmate, these unwritten rules will help you navigate the challenges of living with others and ensure that you have a positive and enjoyable experience. So, let’s dive in and discover the essential guidelines for sharing student accommodation.
Why are they unwritten?
Unwritten as in not formally agreed, it’s just something you would expect from others when living together, it’s just something to bear in mind on how not being considerate to others can impact the social dynamic of sharing accommodation. It doesn’t really matter if it’s 2 or 8 people together. It just helps to not be “that person” in the household whose behaviour and lack of consideration affect others.
The Unwritten Rules for Sharing Student Accommodation
Keep your shared spaces clean and tidy.
Keeping a clean and hygienic living space is super important for our overall well-being. One key way to do this is by not leaving dirty dishes lying around for too long. If we leave pots and pans unwashed for too long, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria that can make us sick.
So, it’s really important to be proactive when it comes to cleaning up after ourselves in our living space. Instead of letting dishes pile up, we should aim to clean them right after we use them. This not only keeps our living space clean and tidy but also promotes good hygiene habits.
It’s worth keeping in mind that living in a clean environment is more than just making things look nice. It can also help us stay healthier, both physically and mentally, by reducing our exposure to germs and bacteria. That’s why it’s important to avoid living in a messy or dirty space and to do our part in keeping our shared living spaces clean and hygienic.
Make sure you are comfortable living with them
When sharing student accommodation, it’s important to take some essential steps to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable living environment for everyone. Firstly, it’s important to have a clear understanding of each other’s habits, preferences, and lifestyle. Communication is key, and discussing expectations and ground rules can prevent conflicts and misunderstandings down the line.
Pay your way when sharing student accommodation
Sharing student accommodation can be an excellent way to save money and create a sense of community, but it’s important to remember that you’re living with other people who have their own needs and expectations. One of the most critical aspects of shared living is financial responsibility.
When living with roommates, it’s essential to be fair and responsible when it comes to paying bills. Everyone should contribute their fair share of the rent, utilities, and other household expenses. It’s important to discuss these expenses upfront and establish a system for paying them, such as creating a shared bank account or splitting the bills equally.
However, it’s also important, to be honest and transparent when it comes to finances. Stealing from your roommates or failing to pay your share of the bills is not only unfair, but it can also damage your relationship and create tension in the household.
In addition to being financially responsible, it’s also important to respect your roommates’ personal belongings and space. Stealing or borrowing without permission from your roommates, whether it’s food, clothing, or personal items, is a serious violation of trust and can damage your relationship with them.
Respect each other’s privacy and don’t get too involved in each other’s personal affairs.
Living with roommates in shared student accommodation can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it’s important to respect each other’s privacy and boundaries to create a positive and harmonious living environment.
One essential aspect of respecting each other’s privacy is to treat the walls as paper-thin. This means being mindful of noise levels and avoiding loud music or conversations that may disturb your roommates. It’s also important to respect each other’s sleeping schedules and try to minimize disruptions during quiet hours.
In addition to being mindful of noise levels, it’s also important to respect each other’s personal space and avoid getting too involved in each other’s personal affairs. While it’s natural to want to connect and socialize with your roommates, it’s important to recognize and respect their need for privacy and personal time.
It’s also essential to establish clear boundaries and expectations regarding visitors and guests. Make sure to discuss who can come over, how often, and for how long. It’s important to respect each other’s comfort levels and avoid inviting over people who may make your roommates uncomfortable.
Lastly, it’s crucial to communicate openly and honestly with your roommates. If you’re feeling uncomfortable or have concerns about privacy or personal boundaries, don’t be afraid to speak up and discuss the issue with your roommates in a calm and respectful manner.
Be courteous and considerate, and avoid hogging the shower or other shared spaces.
it’s essential to be courteous and considerate towards your roommates. One of the most important ways to demonstrate consideration is by avoiding hogging the shower or other shared spaces.
When sharing a bathroom with other people, it’s crucial to be mindful of your time in the shower. Try to keep your showers short and avoid monopolizing the bathroom during peak hours. It’s also essential to keep the bathroom clean and tidy after use, so it’s ready for the next person.
Similarly, when sharing other common areas like the kitchen, living room, or study area, be considerate of your roommates’ needs and schedules. Avoid leaving your belongings scattered around or occupying shared spaces for extended periods. Keep these areas clean and tidy, and respect the rules and agreements made with your roommates.
Be respectful of other household members’ needs.
One of the most important unwritten rules of sharing student accommodation. Respecting your roommates and avoiding excessive noise that may disturb them. This is especially important during quiet hours, which are typically designated times during the day when noise levels should be kept to a minimum. Avoid playing loud music, shouting, or having raucous conversations that may disturb your roommates. This is particularly important if you have visitors over, as they may not be aware of the rules in your shared accommodation.
It’s also important to be respectful of your roommates’ personal space and comfort levels when inviting visitors over. Avoid inviting large groups of strangers without giving your roommates a heads-up first. This will allow your roommates to prepare themselves and make any necessary arrangements before the visitors arrive.
Additionally, it’s crucial to be mindful of the impact of visitors on shared spaces. Ensure that your visitors don’t monopolize the shared areas like the bathroom, kitchen, or living room, and don’t leave any mess behind. It’s also essential to be aware of any rules regarding visitors set by the accommodation management and abide by them accordingly.
About Thornsett Properties
Thornsett Properties have been providing bills included student accommodation in Sheffield since 1985. We supply accommodation to over 650 undergraduates and postgraduate students studying at Sheffield University and Sheffield Hallam University every year. Designed to fit with your budget whilst looking for student accommodation. Thornsett Properties are property owners and not agents. This means all our properties are managed by ourselves and not reliant on third parties. Our aim is to help you succeed in our student accommodation in Sheffield
