Whether you are going off to college for the first time, or you are saving money on an apartment by sharing with a friend, being a roommate for the first time is scary. With a few simple rules to live by, however, you can take the stress out of sharing a small space with another person, and almost guarantee a successful living arrangement!
 
•No matter how comfortable or close you are with your roommate, never borrow anything of hers without asking permission first: No matter how small the living space, privacy is privacy – respect it.
 
•Don't eat your roommate's food unless she offers it to you: Food is expensive if she is willing to share when she is around that's fine, but don't assume what's in the fridge is community property.
 
•Don't be messy and don't clutter the bathroom: If you have long hair and shed a lot, clean your hair out of the shower and keep your living area tidy – it's only fair.
 
•Don't have friends over unannounced: She might need to study or go to bed early, so be sure to ask if it's OK before having people over.
 
•Pay bills promptly: Make sure your half of the rent and all the other bills is paid on time.