5 Signs It's Time To Break Up With Your Roommate

By Ashley Paskill

Roommate disputes are normal, but sometimes things can escalate to the point where you need to end things with your roommate. It can be challenging, especially if you are friends, but in the end, breaking ties will save you in the long run.

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Communication issues

Communication is crucial in any relationship, even the one you have with your roommate. Having a conversation with your roommate about any of the issues you are facing should be the first line of defense. However, if you find yourself having to keep reminding them and they keep disrespecting your wishes or they are not willing to compromise, it may be time to find a new roommate. The first conversation should be just the two of you. If that does not work, consider having a neutral third-party person step in to help mediate. From there, if things still have not improved, consider moving on.

Your roommate may repeatedly fail to tell you if they are having visitors, especially those who may be spending the night. This is a major thing as you need to plan accordingly, so repeated offenses of not being told about visitors can be problematic. A simple text letting you know they are expecting a visitor is all it takes, so if they are unable to do even that, it may be time to break up with your roommate.

Your sleep is being disturbed

As a college student, you likely get very little sleep as it is, especially if you are busy with homework, studying, work, and student organizations. You need any amount of sleep you can get. However, your roommate may do things like play loud music or turn the lights on when you are trying to sleep. This may be okay occasionally, but if it is becoming a hassle and your grades and work performance are suffering, things need to change.

Property is disrespected

You and your roommate may have some things that you share such as certain décor items and you also have your own personal items that are all your own. If you are finding the things that are either yours are shared are being damaged or even taken, this can be grounds for finding a new roommate, especially if your roommate is not being honest about what is happening with your things. Your personal property is that- yours. You deserve to know that it is going to be respected.

Likewise, your roommate may intentionally be damaging the property you are living at. They are aware of the rules as they also signed the lease and you probably have a roommate agreement, so they know how to properly take care of the property you are renting. Damaging the rental space can negatively reflect on both roommates, even if only one roommate is to blame. It can lead to a negative reference on your next rental application and you may not get your security deposit back. If your roommate is causing property damage, it is time to cut ties.

They are not contributing to chores

Living in your own space means that you are responsible for things such as cleaning, doing the dishes, and other chores to help keep your space clean and tidy. If your roommate is not contributing to these tasks and you have talked to them about pitching in, they are disrespecting you and your time. Cleaning and doing chores in general is tiring and time-consuming. Life is busy and you may opt to take over their chores for a day or a week if you know they have been extra busy. However, if they make a habit of not pitching in, they are not taking your time and other priorities into consideration.

They do not pay their share

Life happens sometimes. Your roommate may have had a bad financial month and may be unable to pay their share of rent this month. You may also have to help them cover their food and utilities occasionally. However, if they are consistently not paying their share of the rent or they are not paying you back when you covered them, it is not fair to you. You have a limited budget as well and you need money for things such as tuition, books, and food. If this is a common issue, let your landlord know immediately and proceed to try to find a new roommate. Letting your landlord know what is happening will allow them to know that you are trying to pay your share but your roommate is not paying their share. They may be lenient and understand that you are doing your best. They will be less likely to hold this against you if your roommate is the one who is unable to pay.

Breaking up with a roommate is hard, but in the end, it can save you time, money, and hassle. If you are friends, it can also save your relationship, especially if you are constantly fighting about roommate issues.