5 Reasons A Flatshare Can Go Wrong

Flatshares can help you make new friends and pay less on your rent. However, there are some disadvantages to flatsharing. Be aware of what can go wrong so you know how to deal with it if it comes up.

Billing Issues

Living in a flatshare with two or more people means you need to split the responsibility of the bills: electricity, cable, Internet, and phone. Some flatshares have all of the bills put in one tenant’s name and they have to collect everyone’s share on their own. If someone doesn’t have the money there can be some serious problems. It is best to find a flatshare where you pay your portion of the bills with your rent payment or directly to the landlord.

Cleaning Problems

Cleaning can also become an issue. One person might have to clean up after others, or everyone will have to clean up after one person. Chores need to be split up fairly between each flatmate. Keep a rule that everyone must clean up after themselves when they do anything in any of the common living areas of the flat. A whiteboard with a cleaning schedule will help keep everyone in check and keep the house clean. You could also hire a maid to clean once a week and split the cost.

Flatmate Woes

It is very possible that you will find that you do not get along with someone in the apartment. Someone might play loud, annoying music, sleep too late, hog the tele, etc. We don’t get along with everyone so it can and does happen. You have to learn how to live alongside people you may not like because it is likely to happen elsewhere such as in your career. Try to work things out with the person you don’t get along with.

Safety

Everyone should feel safe in their own home. If you ever do not feel safe you need to let someone know (a teacher, a counselor, a police officer, etc.). In addition, everyone should lock the door when they leave and lock a window after shutting it. This is one easy way to keep everyone a little more safe.

Stealing

This includes space, not just items. Although you might be hesitant to contact the police if your hair dryer is stolen you still should. Stealing is a crime and you should send a message to your flatmates that you are not going to put up with it. Keep valuable items in a safe or in a safe deposit box at a local bank.

Avoid these potential flatshare problems by planning ahead and asking a lot of questions. Plan ahead by not rushing into a flatshare property. Make sure you have time to look at a few different places and have the convenience of choosing the best one for you.

This article was written by Gumtree.com.au. To visit Gumtree, click here to find share accommodation in New South Wales and beyond. Gumtree lists thousands of ads for houses and apartments to rent, buy and share.