50 Questions to Ask Potential Roommates | Homeowner's Guide

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The perfect roommate is someone you can trust, pays rent on time, and keeps your property in great shape. However, finding that ideal match isn't as easy as it seems. Once they move into your space, you realize you're not compatible, and it's definitely not working out how you imagined.

Don't fret yet! You can absolutely avoid this by asking the right questions. Knowing what to ask makes all the difference, and it's a great way to get to know your potential roomie. If you've already posted an ad (on SpareRoom, naturally), or you're thinking of doing it, we've put together a list of questions to ask potential roommates. In case you're still looking for that perfect roommate, check out SpareRoom's roommate finder. You can find roommates in NYC and in any other city or location of your choice.

To keep the conversation from sounding so formal, the trick is to approach it as a chat, not a job interview. Simple, straightforward questions are the best way to gauge what a possible roommate's habits, preferences, and overall compatibility are.

Here are categories of questions to ask a potential roommate. Feel free to run through or ask only what's most important to you.

• Daily Schedule, Noise, and Sleeping Patterns
• Cleaning Habits and Chores Expectations
• Social Habits and Guest Policy
• Money Matters and Bill Payment
• Personal Quirks and Deal Breakers
• Communication and Conflict Resolution Styles
• Shared Belongings and Space Use
• Lifestyle Preferences (Diet, Noise, Smoking, Pets)
• Frequently Asked Questions

Daily Schedule, Noise, and Sleeping Patterns

1. Are you an early bird or a night owl type?

If you're a landlord or homeowner, understanding if your potential roommate is an evening or morning person will help you determine whether your sleeping hours are compatible. In case you're an early bird and they're late-nighters, it can be disruptive if you both use the common space. When you find that the answer is not ideal for you, work out how to manage noise so that both of you get quality sleep.

2. What time do you typically need to be asleep and awake throughout the week?

This is something you would want to know so you can understand your potential roommate's schedule, including their alone time and any personal rituals early in the day. If you're more of a night owl and they go to bed early and need to get up at 6 AM, it's best to set ground rules and communicate how to respect each other's sleep routines.

3. Do you work (or study) from home often, and how do you feel about noise?

If your potential roommate works or studies from home, you need to discuss expectations of noise. Will they need quiet hours while working, or are they able to work with background noise? For instance, if you're looking to find a roommate in a specific city like Los Angeles, Miami, or San Francisco, SpareRoom offers tailored listings to help you find someone with similar work habits. This prevents conflicts later when either of you is attempting to concentrate.

4. Do you like to have background noise (TV, music) or silence when relaxing in common areas?

This one sets the tone for the common areas, specifically the living room and kitchen. If they prefer silence and you like background music, you'll need to reach some sort of agreement on when and where certain activities are allowed.

5. When you come home late at night, how do you keep it down to avoid distracting others?

It's vital to ask a potential roommate about their noise expectations and to communicate yours as well. Knowing how prospective roommates manage noise will help you both set expectations. Do they listen to TV or anything else with headphones, or do they practice other techniques to limit disturbance? Discuss this and see what they think.

6. How do you feel about noise during the day? Do you mind noisy neighbours? Is occasional loud music alright, or do you require quiet all day?

These questions are about setting expectations for daytime noise and even noisy neighbors. Some potential roommates don't have an issue with the occasional DIY or playing music loudly, but others may prefer silence. Clarify where you both stand to avoid conflict.

7. How often do you have to travel for work or pleasure?

Understanding how often your potential roommate travels can be a plus. Less time together can sometimes mean fewer issues. It's a good question to ask if you're hoping for a relatively independent roommate who won't be around all the time.

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Cleaning Habits and Chores Expectations

The number one reason roommates fall out is often the dreaded dish pile! Let's set clear, friendly expectations now.

8. Be honest: What's your idea of a "clean kitchen"?

Everyone's idea of “clean” is different. In shared apartments, some people are okay with having a couple of dirty dishes in the sink overnight, whereas others prefer to clean the kitchen as soon as they're done using it. It's crucial to talk about what, for each of you, a "clean" kitchen is, so that you avoid frustration later.

9. Have you ever used a chore or cleaning schedule before?

Is your potential roomie someone who needs structure, or do they prefer a free system where anyone cleans whenever they feel like it? Understanding their cleaning habits will help everyone stay on the same page when it comes to keeping the house sparkly.

10. How frequently would you prefer to clean the bathroom/common spaces?

Knowing how often your future roommate expects cleaning of shared spaces, like the bathroom or living room, prevents arguments over cleanliness levels. Set a routine. It could be weekly, bi-weekly, or whenever the need arises.

11. What's your attitude toward the fridge? Are you a "wipe up spills immediately" person, or a "sort it out once a month" type?

On shared equipment such as the fridge, it's a good thing to know whether your potential roommate is a cleanliness maniac or not so much. A quick conversation about how to keep the fridge spick and span can save you a great deal of grief. And, it's not just the fridge; other equipment too.

12. Where do you stand on laundry clutter?

Some people don't mind having laundry out in common spaces, while others prefer to put it all away in their room. Clarifying your approach to laundry and common spaces, from the beginning, will keep things harmonious.

13. If the apartment needs a professional deep cleaning every now and then, how would you feel about splitting that charge?

It's often easier to simply pay for deep cleaning, but how do you split the cost? Discussing this upfront will keep you both aligned on the financial aspect of getting the space spotless.

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Social Habits and Guest Policy

Socializing in shared spaces comes down to respecting each other's comfort and privacy when there are other guests in the house.

14. Are you a social butterfly? If friends come over to hang out, how much notice would you give me?

If your would-be roommate is a social butterfly and enjoys having friends over, then ask how much notice they would give. Guest notices are important in order to maintain harmony and avoid being caught off guard.

15. Do you have a significant other, and how often would they normally sleep over?

This one helps to set parameters around overnight guests. In case your roommate's boyfriend is a regular overnight visitor, it's healthy to discuss expectations for use of the space.

If you're looking for roommates in Austin or any other city, SpareRoom offers great listings where you can filter by preferences to make sure you find a good match.

16. What's your guest policy for spur-of-the-moment, late-night visitors? Is the rule always to ask first?

It's a good idea to talk about impromptu late-night guests and what your roommate prefers to do. Discuss if they should ask permission to have visitors over or want a bit of autonomy, and vice versa. These guest rules will prevent possible misunderstandings when family friends and significant others show up at 1 AM.

17. How do you feel about using the shared living room when one of us has company?

Clarify whether the common living space is available for visitors or if a person should stay in their room when they have a guest over. Frequent communication about using shared spaces makes everyone comfortable.

18. Are you okay with me having relatives stay on my sofa for a few nights each year, as long as I ask you well ahead of time?

Some people are more relaxed regarding family members sleeping over than others. It's important to discuss any special circumstances or exceptions so that both of you agree on the guests.

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Money Matters and Bill Payment

Let's be mature about cash. Honesty and responsibility here build massive trust.

19. Have you ever had any bumps with paying monthly rent or bills on time in the past?

Inquiring about your prospective roommate's past experience with paying rent or bills could reduce the risk of surprises in the future. If you have had problems with former roommates, this is when to bring up any concerns to ensure your roommate experience is fulfilling.

20. How do you handle bill splitting (e.g. an app like Splitwise, paying on rotation, or bank transfers)?

It's important to define your future plans on bill splitting to avoid confusion and resentment. Whether you use apps like Splitwise, pay on rotation, or transfer funds to each other, you can make your financial obligations clear from the start. This will create clear expectations for both of you.

21. Are you okay with signing the lease for at least a year, or would you prefer something shorter?

This question will help you understand if your prospective roommate is looking for a temporary setup. When you're looking for a long-term lease, but they want something temporary, this can bring problems down the line.

22. What is your maximum budget for rent plus utilities?

Knowing your roommate's budget ensures that they can easily pay rent and bills. Bring this up beforehand to prevent future financial hardship or confusion and to ensure that you both agree on rent and utility bills.

23. How and when will you cover the security deposit?

Some roommates will want to pay the security deposit straight away, while others will pay in installments or at a later date. Ensure that you agree on how this will be done to avoid any confusion.

24. Do you have any preferences on utility usage (keeping the lights off, short showers, thermostat settings) to keep costs down?

Communicating about utility consumption in the first place will help you avoid frustration down the line. Some people are more energy-conscious than others. As such, there must be a compromise about things like turning off lights, taking short showers, or adjusting the thermostat in an effort to save money.

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Personal Quirks and Deal Breakers

There are some small things that can make or break a living arrangement. Listen, gauge, and respond with empathy!

25. Do you have any goofy habits or pet peeves that ex-roommates loved or detested?

Learning about any small, goofy habits that might have driven a former roommate crazy can give you an idea about your future roomie's lifestyle. This question will tell you if their habits might be pet peeves for you.

26. Which thermostat setting do you prefer?

Temperature is a hot-button issue in common living arrangements. Some people may like it cool, while others prefer a warm, toasty space. Being aware of your potential roommate's preferred thermostat setting can prevent conflict and make everyone feel comfortable.

27. Do you use strongly aromatic materials like candles, incense, or air fresheners?

This is especially important if you or someone in your household is sensitive or allergic to smells. It will allow you to avoid any embarrassment in the future. You will also know if you need to have a no-scents policy in shared spaces.

28. What are your hobbies? Will any of them take up a lot of space in common areas (e.g. musical instruments, large equipment)?

Find out what your roommate does in their free time. Some hobbies require a lot of space, like musical instruments or large equipment. It's important to know if your future roommate's hobbies might occupy shared areas, causing clutter or disrupting the flow.

29. Are you OK with sharing small chores like taking out trash/recycling bins or bringing in the mail?

A small issue like taking out the trash or bringing in the mail might seem insignificant, but it can build up over time. Knowing whether your prospective roommate is willing to help with these tasks will create a more cooperative living arrangement and prevent resentments about being taken advantage of.

30. What's one non-negotiable dealbreaker you have while renting space?

Everyone has at least one dealbreaker, and it's always something like no smoking in the house or no pets. By getting it out there, both parties can save time, and you'll be able to find a good roommate that fits your living style. Also, it's easier to meet each other's expectations.

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Communication and Conflict Resolution Styles

Now, when that inevitable issue comes up, how will you and your renter prevent it from escalating into a larger problem?

31. If an issue arises, are you a "quick text" person, or do you sit down and talk it out face-to-face?

Understanding how your prospective roommates handle conflict and their confrontation style is crucial in guaranteeing that your living situation will be peaceful. There are people who like to tackle matters immediately through a text, and others who prefer to talk face-to-face. This will help you identify the best way to address conflicts.

32. What's the best way to give you feedback or raise a concern without feeling awkward?

Knowing how to give feedback or express concerns creates an open and respectful line of communication with your potential roommate. Directness appeals to some roommates, whereas others like to have a softer tone. You should be attuned to their style to avoid communication breakdowns when problems occur.

33. What was the biggest challenge you faced with a previous roommate, and how did you resolve it?

Asking about past living situations helps you understand your potential roomie's attitude towards conflict resolution. It's comforting to know what type of issues they may have had with past roommates or negligent landlords, and how they resolved them. It'll help you gauge their level of maturity and problem-solving skills.

34. Do you expect us to spend time together, or are you looking for someone who is generally more private and independent?

This question will help you understand the extent of social interaction your new roommate is expecting. Some roommates are social and enjoy spending time together, while others prefer to be independent and have their space. Having the same point of view about socialization will prevent awkwardness in the future.

35. Do you have a habit of leaving passive-aggressive notes, or are you more up-front with problems?

Communication styles can be quite different. Some people prefer passive-aggressive memos over a direct approach. An understanding of your potential roommate's confrontation style will tell you if they do things face-to-face or not. This is important since you'll be living with a different person whose habits you're still learning.

36. How do you feel about having a brief monthly check-in (5 minutes over tea) to ensure everything is running smoothly?

Creating regular check-ins can prevent small issues from escalating. A quick, informal monthly check-in during breakfast or dinner time gives both of you a chance to talk over anything and make sure everything is going okay. It can ensure all people feel respected and heard within the shared space.

Shared Belongings and Space Use

Always define what is shared (e.g. shared Wi-Fi) and what is not shared (that cool blender from your best friend).

37. What furniture are you planning to bring?

In a case where you're sharing living rooms, you should be aware of all the furniture your potential roommate plans to bring, especially for the public areas. This will ensure adequate planning so that everyone has their own space and no one is caught by surprise when it comes to shared rooms.

38. Do you have a rule or approach on borrowing stuff (chargers, tools)?

Borrowing chargers or tools may be a source of conflict if not clarified at an early point. Having it settled whether you two should ask permission prior to borrowing something will avoid conflicts in the long run and also show respect for belongings.

39. Do you agree with splitting the cost of shared kitchen or cleaning supplies like toilet paper, paper towels, and hand soap?

Shared supplies like toilet paper, paper towels, and hand soap can be a source of frustration if you don't handle them fairly. It's important to discuss how to split the cost for these communal items. Some roommates prefer to take turns buying them, while others might want to split the cost evenly.

40. Do you have any issues with having a labeling system for food in the shared fridge / pantry, or is the "don't touch my stuff" rule enough?

The pantry and fridge are the first items that can be problematic. Discussing whether or not you should have a food labelling system makes the lines clear, so you both know what's off-limits and what you can eat. Also, talk about sharing food. Is it something you'll be doing, and if so, under what grounds? Establish clear ground rules for communal spaces.

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Lifestyle Preferences (Diet, Noise, Smoking, Pets)

These final questions touch on the potential hard stops, and they'll help you determine your fundamental compatibility.

41. Do you like pets? Do you currently have any? Or are you planning on getting one?

It's important to clarify if your roommate is a pet person, in case you have some yourself. If your future roommate or you have pet allergies or you don't like pets, clarifying beforehand prevents any issues when they move in. In case of any pets, don't forget to talk about things like the litter box and how your roommate plans to handle it.

42. Do you have any life-threatening food allergies (e.g. nuts, shellfish), or are you strictly vegetarian / vegan?

Food allergies and dietary restrictions may affect meal planning for shared meals and food shopping. Asking about food allergies or dietary preferences prevents accidental allergen exposure and enables you both to be on the same page regarding meals.

43. Are you comfortable with having alcohol in the house? If you do drink, how often is it at home?

It's very important to discuss drinking because it will make both roommates comfortable with the drinking culture in the shared home. Some may not be comfortable with alcohol in the house, yet others may want to be able to have some drinks sometimes. Clear personal boundaries will prevent awkwardness.

44. Do you smoke?

Now, this is definitely one of the important questions to ask potential roommates. In case you, as the Landlord, smoke, you'd want to know your roommate's opinion on this. Also, if they do, and you don't, you can discuss how to handle this, or if it's a hard line that both of you can't cross.

45. How do you feel about security and locking doors? Are you a "lock all the time" person or a "just when you leave" person?

Security and boundaries are important. In a shared apartment, for instance, some people may feel more secure if doors stay locked at all times. Others would be less fussy about it. Discuss this and come to an agreement on how you will handle security, so that everyone feels safe within the home. Also, discuss how both of you will accept deliveries securely.

46. What do you think about recycling and overall environmental practices (e.g. composting, sorting glass)?

Discussing your ecological habits, such as recycling or composting, is helpful in getting to know one another's lifestyle decisions. In case you both have conflicting views regarding going green, it's better to know in advance so that you can both make up your minds accordingly and establish some expectations regarding shared living areas.

47. What's your overall feeling about being late?

Understanding your potential roommate's reaction to tardiness will give you an indication of how reliable they are. It doesn't matter if it's being on time for in-home activities, which both of you share, or being punctual in paying the month's rent; clarity in this matter will prevent future misunderstandings.

48. Are you someone who cooks at home frequently, or do you mainly eat out?

Knowing if your potential roommate likes to cook often or would prefer dining out is vital in setting expectations for shared spaces, specifically the kitchen. If they're a keen cook, the kitchen will be in more frequent use.

49. Do you have a car? If yes, what are your expectations regarding parking or sharing a driveway?

If parking is limited, it's a good idea to know if your roommate has a car and their intention regarding parking. You'll have to establish clear rules for shared parkways or parking spaces to avoid conflicts.

50. How do you feel about knocking before entering each other's personal space? (Even if the door is slightly ajar!)

Personal space is important. Placing boundaries on when to knock before opening someone else's bedroom will help build respect for each other. Knowing whether your roommate respects privacy and personal space, even if doors are ajar, is important.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What questions are on a roommate questionnaire?

A roommate questionnaire typically includes questions about sleeping habits, morning routines, cleanliness, social life, and financial commitments. It also includes questions about dealbreakers and any other habits or preferences that can affect living with them. These questionnaires come in handy during a roommate interview.

What are icebreaker questions for prospective roommates?

Icebreaker questions to ask potential roommates should be fun and light-hearted, such as their interests, favorite shows, and travel experiences, including how they like to spend their free time. These questions help to gauge personality and to establish a good roommate relationship.

How do you evaluate a potential roommate?

You can evaluate potential roommates by analyzing compatibility in terms of schedules, cleanliness, lifestyle habits, any significant past roommate situation, and financial management. You need to have a completely honest conversation for an effective evaluation.

What are some deep questions to ask a potential roommate?

Deep questions to ask potential roommates include asking them about their habits, values, alone time, dealbreakers, if they mind a third roommate, and what they consider their worst habit. These kinds of questions allow you to better understand their lifestyle and personality.

How do I make conversation with a potential roommate?

Start by being friendly and open. Ask about their activities, study or work routines, daily lives, and old roommates. Also, enquire about their lifestyle and share your own tastes and expectations.

Conclusion

Anytime you think of questions to ask potential roommates, remember to focus on common areas, financial obligations, personal habits, schedules, past living situations, deal breakers, and anything important to you. You can find the right roommate by asking clear and informed questions.

It doesn't matter if you're looking for potential college roommates or otherwise; being upfront about your expectations will help in creating a positive and peaceful living environment. Use these questions for a detailed and effective roommate interview.

Disclaimer - This information is for general informational purposes only and should not be treated as legal advice. We recommend you consult an experienced Landlord Tenant attorney if you require legal advice.