Things to consider with Share Accommodation

Share accommodation is a whole new experience for the individual. Therefore when looking to share accommodation in New Zealand or any where in the world there are a few issues to consider

Issue 1

Choosing a house mate which best fits you, is the most important issue out of them all. So here are a few helpful hints to choose a housemate;

• Decide what kind of person you would like to share with: Gender, hobbies, cleanliness, habits etc.
• Put an advert out: Get the word around that you are looking for a house mate.
• Examine your respondents: Consider meeting in a public place prior to showing them the residence.
• Find out about the person more in depth: Do they smoke? Are they religious? What kind of lifestyle do they lead? Do they often have guests over? Do they require parking? Do they prepare food?
• Show them the property: Ensure they are happy with their room, the level of cleanliness etc of the house.
• Reflect on your thoughts: Give yourself the time to reflect before agreeing for them to move in.
• Consider a trial period: You may want to have a trial period (only for a couple of weeks) to determine if you like living together before making formal arrangements.
• Make an offer: If you decide that you are happy for them to move in, let them know.

Issue 2

When sharing accommodation is can be fun and laughter but you still have to consider the legal side of it like;

Share Accommodation Agreement
A share accommodation agreement basically outlines the expectations of each of the tenants in the residence. These are a few of the issues outlined in an informal share accommodation agreement:

• Personal details of the tenants
• Details of premises
• House rules and expectations. Example:

Smoking
Responsibilities regarding cleaning, cooking, garden maintenance etc

Alcohol/drug use

Access to bedrooms etc

• Any trial periods that you have you have agreed on
• Expectations regarding the payment of rent and bills
• Dates and Signatures of all tenants in the house

Sub-letting
Sub-letting requires some formal lease papers to be developed and signed with clear conditions.

Issue 3

With share accommodation there will be disputes and disagreements, therefore you need to know before how to handle the situation. Some disputes can be solved by a formal discussion over the matter. But the other deputes that involve cases like violence, drug use etc may involve the law. Therefore if you are confronted with these issues you must immediately get formal help. This help can be found by going to the state department of consumer affairs or housing. Remember even if you aren’t directly involved with these cases they are still your responsibility.