Tips for vetting potential roommates before signing a lease?

roommateshousingadvice

Art_O

Joined:
13.07.2022
Posts: 2429

Topic Starter

22.02.2025 18:07

I'm moving to a new city next month and I'm honestly terrified about finding a roommate. I've heard so many horror stories about people who stop paying rent or turn out to be completely different from how they acted during the initial meeting. What kind of questions should I be asking during the interview process to gauge their living habits and financial stability? Also, are there any red flags I should look out for when meeting them for coffee? I really don't want to get stuck in a bad situation for a year.

10 replies in this topic

Mike_B

Joined:
30.10.2022
Posts: 1604

08.03.2025 03:16

Always ask for proof of income or a recent pay stub. If they get defensive, that is your first red flag.

sunday_guest

Joined:
29.09.2022
Posts: 209

24.07.2025 15:27

In reply to a previous post

I second this. Also, ask them directly about their cleaning habits. If they say they are 'laid back' about dishes, run.

Stacy_B

Joined:
27.01.2023
Posts: 160

31.07.2025 04:29

Try to meet in a neutral place first, but if you can, see how they treat waitstaff. It’s a small detail that says a lot about their personality.

Amelie_Z

Joined:
20.11.2022
Posts: 1471

13.09.2025 03:13

In reply to a previous post

That's solid advice. I once had a roommate who was super polite to me but incredibly rude to the barista, and sure enough, they were a nightmare to live with.

new_here

Joined:
21.12.2024
Posts: 1723

27.11.2025 21:07

Ask them about their sleep schedule and if they work from home. Nothing ruins a lease faster than a night owl when you have a 9-to-5.

MrNobody

Joined:
24.05.2022
Posts: 759

05.12.2025 15:40

In reply to a previous post

Exactly! And don't forget to ask about guests. How many nights a week is their partner or friend crashing on the couch? You need to set boundaries early.

Kate_J

Joined:
11.05.2025
Posts: 1810

20.12.2025 16:45

If you really want to be safe, ask for a reference from their previous landlord. If they can't provide one, that's a huge warning sign.

seba_eu

Joined:
26.07.2022
Posts: 926

02.01.2026 01:54

In reply to a previous post

I agree with the reference idea, but sometimes people have bad blood with landlords for weird reasons. Maybe ask for a character reference from a former roommate instead?

Alan_K

Joined:
18.10.2022
Posts: 666

06.01.2026 00:28

Honestly, trust your gut. If something feels off during the coffee meeting, it probably is. Don't let the pressure of finding a place force you into a bad deal.

Amelie_Z

Joined:
30.03.2024
Posts: 268

18.01.2026 06:30

In reply to a previous post

This is so true. I ignored my gut feeling once and ended up paying for my roommate's share of the utilities for six months. Never again.

Tips for vetting potential roommates before signing a lease?

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