Roommates
Deciding if someone is the right fit before moving in can be tough. However, there are tools available to help you make an informed decision.
Explore the resources below for tips on finding and living with roommates.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
How to Use the Duke Off-Campus Roommate Finder
Duke's Roommate Finder allows you to filter by social and cleanliness habits, graduation year, gender identity, pets, and more. Start by signing in or creating an account.
Once you've signed up for a student account, you can create a roommate profile. Only those who have already completed their own profiles will be able to view yours. Now you can share a bit about yourself and start connecting with others in search of a roommate (or roommates)!
Already have a place?
In addition to creating a roommate profile, you can create a listing to share in the Housing search to reach more potential roommates. This way, your property listing will be visible to anyone searching the Housing section of the site, versus only those with active roommate profiles.
First, select Roommate Profile in the dropdown under your name in the top-right corner of the page, and then select Housing from the options on the left. Select Add a Listing and share some information about your place.
Your listing will be tagged as "Shared Housing" on the Housing Search page:
Lease Options When Renting with Roommates
The rental process can be overwhelming for many. Common questions like "How will bills be divided?", "Who’s bringing what?", and "What kind of lease am I signing?" are completely normal. These concerns should be openly discussed with your roommates to avoid confusion later.
Once you’ve decided that living with roommates is the right move and have narrowed down your housing options, it’s a good idea to check with the property manager about the types of leases they offer for shared apartments. Choosing the right lease is key to making sure it works for your living situation.
Joint Leasing
A joint lease is like a partnership—you’re in it together until the lease ends.
Trust is super important here, as all roommates are responsible for rent, utilities, and taking care of the apartment. If one person doesn’t pay their share, the landlord may ask the others to cover it, which can create some tension. But, on the plus side, joint leases are often cheaper since everyone chips in equally. This type of lease is more common in smaller apartments. Just be aware that if one roommate causes damage or gets evicted, you might be asked to leave too, so make sure to choose reliable roommates!
Browse joint lease (entire unit) rentals >
Individual Leasing (By-the-Bedroom)
If you're wary of flaky roommates or would simply like more independence within your lease agreement, individual leases might be a better option.
With a by-the-bedroom lease, you get your own room (and sometimes bathroom), but still share the common spaces. This type of lease is especially popular with students, since if a roommate doesn’t pay their rent, other leaseholders are not liable. Also, you won't be responsible if another roommate causes damage and ends their lease early. Some landlords might even choose your roommates for you—so be sure to confirm the roommate selection process before signing your lease.
Browse individual lease (by-the-bedroom) rentals >
Taking Over a Sublease
If a friend has a vacant room because a roommate recently moved out, this might be your chance to take it over! Subleases can offer more flexibility, since you usually don’t have to commit for as long. But, before you sign anything, it’s always a good idea to talk to the landlord or property manager to make sure you understand the terms and check for any potential issues.
Before signing on the dotted line, always talk with your landlord or property manager about any terms of your lease agreement or red flags.
Things to Consider
Who you live with can be just as important as where you live. While your best friend might seem like an obvious choice, be sure that you have considered the challenges that living in close quarters will bring. Living together can sometimes strain friendships, especially if you disagree about cleanliness, parties, guests, paying bills, or expectations of each other.
Roommate Considerations Worksheet
Download the guide below for some questions to ask yourself and potential roommates as you begin your search:
(Click to enlarge/download)
Creating a Roommate Agreement
Living with roommates can offer companionship and a sense of community that you can't experience living by yourself. However, without clear communication and boundaries, tensions can arise. That's where a well-written roommate agreement becomes useful.
Whether living with friends, acquaintances, or strangers, a roommate agreement can provide a roadmap for resolving conflicts and maintaining a positive living environment.
For more insight, visit this step-by-step guide to drafting a roommate agreement.
Sample Roommate Agreement
Feel free to use the guide below as a template and complete it with your roommates:
(Click to enlarge/download)
