Roommate Agreements
During your first weeks of school, you will be asked to complete a Roommate Agreement, which assists you and your roommate(s) with communication and expectations related to study time, sleep time, cleanliness, guests, shared use of personal belongings, shared expenses, etc. For example, utilizing closet space when there is not a specified closet for every student within the room.
As you and your roommate(s) prepare to review and formalize your agreement, we encourage you to review our tips on effective communication and on conflict resolution. Reviewing these resources will ensure that everyone communicates effectively and will reduce the likelihood of conflict arising.
In the event conflict arises, Housing and Residence Life offers a number of resources to students facing roommate conflicts.
- We encourage you to address issues or concerns as they arise. Do not wait until this becomes a heated moment. (We recommend within the first 48-72 hours that an issue arises).
- When addressing issues or concerns, rely on the tips on effective communication and on the conflict resolution resources available to you below.
- Our Student Staff Members are trained as mediators, with experience helping roommates find solutions to conflicts. If you and your roommate(s) can't resolve your issues, seek out your Resident Assistant or Community Assistant for mediation and revisit your Roommate Agreement.
All Roommate Agreements can be found by logging into the StarRez Portal.
Resources
Conflict Resolution Strategies
Don’t try to resolve the conflict when you or the other person is angry. It’s okay to take a time out or agree to meet again in 24 hours. Understand your biases and triggers Identify a Safe Place for negotiation Find a mutual time and place to talk. Finding a private and neutral location is always a good idea to ensure everyone feels equality during the discussion.
- Define the problem Each person should describe the conflict and what causes it in their own words.
- Identify issues clearly and concisely. Use “I” terms (i.e., “I feel…”, “I want…”, “I need…”) as tools for clarification.
- Speak only for yourself. Listen carefully and respectfully while the other person is talking.
- Try to understand the other person’s point of view. Remember there are two sides to every story.
- Don’t interrupt and be patient. Use active listening skills Clarify to get more information.
- Restate what you heard the other person say, including their feeling.
- Assert your needs clearly Respect each other’s differences.
- Everyone has different values, lifestyles, expectations, and communication styles.
- Build an agreement that works Brainstorm solutions to the conflict. Be open to new ideas.
- Be willing to negotiate and compromise.
- Remember that a solution will probably involve each person giving something and getting something.
- Trust the other person to do their part.