- You are now sharing your home, in many ways the final decision will be yours, but, you will still need to talk things through with your Flatmate. No one will want to live as a guest and you must consider your home is now also the home of your Flatmate. Initially you will need to encourage your Flatmate to feel at home and allow compromises and changes to occur.
- Be clear about what is communal property and what is not, You may be happy to share your T.V, Washing machine, Stereo, Pots and Pans, Furniture etc, but you may not wish to share your Computer, Clothes, Cosmetics and Gym equipment, be clear up front, rather that annoyed because your Flatmate didn't realize.
- Be discreet and don't offer personal infomation about your Flatmate unless you are sure it's O.K.

- Be friendly not intrusive, Respect space / privacy. Call, if not home as expected.

- Do an inventory prior to Flatmate moving in, Name labels on CDs or other items which may become mixed up like kitchen utensils.
- Walk around your home and photograph as much of your belongings as you can, keep a record of serial numbers and makes of expensive items.
- Keep a record and receipts for any item bought as co-purchase.
- Don't invite your parents or friend to stay without your Flatmate agreeing. Your new flatmate is now at home, they are not visitors and homeowners need to consider their rights.