Student Life 2013/14 January 2014 | Page 15

7 TIPS TO HELP YOU LIVE HARMONIOUSLY Once the paperwork and bureaucracy is out of the way, there’s little left to do except live happily ever after. To maintain a harmonious house atmosphere, it is a very good idea to establish some house rules from day one Deliberately overestimate the cost of the bills It is miles better to have money left over at the end of the year than to frantically fall short. Also, remember bills will be higher in winter than summer. Consider these things: Set up individual standing orders to your landlord for your rent This means that no one else is held accountable if one housemate fails to pay their share of the rent. Make sure the bills are in joint names or sign up with Glide This will ensure that the bills are not the responsibility of one housemate. If a few people don’t pay their bills, it’s not fair for one person to get a poor credit score. Discuss whether you will all live independently or cook together. Even if everyone is busy it could be nice to commit to getting together at least once a week. Be considerate of others If one housemate likes to play their music or TV at full blast, agree on a set period of ‘down time’ each day so other housemates can work or sleep. Form a kitty to pay for the essentials These include tea, milk, toilet paper, cleaning products and any other goodies you choose to share. www.accommodationforstudents.com 15 STUDENT GUIDE Ensure everyone is clear on the terms of the tenancy Make sure everyone knows when the rent is due, how much the bills are and the length of stay. Decide what kind of household you are going to be