R
R
UVA
R
A
S
EADY
OOMMATES! :
’S
OOMMATE
GREEMENT
ERVICE
Moving off grounds with your own roommate can be an amazing experience! Yet, because conflict
is a natural part of the human experience, even the best roommates can encounter trouble getting along.
Having a roommate means more than promised late nights and good conversation. It is a long-term
commitment to your landlord and to each other.
While there is no way to completely prevent conflict, you can prepare for it! Preparation means
establishing the expectations you have of yourself and each other. Remember, the roommate relationship
is actually a complex one with issues of money, accountability, and respect at the core.
The roommate agreement (1) creates a clear understanding of each roommate’s responsibilities
and (2) protects your rights in potential conflict, especially important for issues concerning money.
Enclosed is a roommate agreement which you and your roommates can modify and sign. This
important document provides a basic agreement standardized for most living situations while possessing
room for special provisions. It was created out of great care for you, taking into account virtually all aspects
of the roommate experience.
We congratulate you on deciding to work openly and honestly with your roommate(s) in
constructing your very own roommate agreement. This step is sure to help you have a great year!
The Roommate Agreement Service is brought to you by:
Housing & Residence Life
Student Legal Services
Countess Hughes
Lester Wilson
Gibbons House, Alderman Road
Newcomb Hall 460
Residence Area
(434) 924-7524
(434) 924-3736
housing@virginia.edu
I
R
A
NSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE
OOMMATE
GREEMENT
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Roommates should sit down preferably prior to or at least within one week of move-in to read, discuss, and complete
the agreement. The roommates should meet to discuss their opinions and work out any differences so that a single
agreement is completed and signed.
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Highlighted portions of this agreement may be modified/filled in as desired. Additional changes may affect your legal
rights as a tenant and would be best served through consultation with Student Legal Services. Such portions should be
agreed upon by all roommates and worded in consensual language.
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Each roommate should get a copy of the signed agreement. If students consult with Student Legal Services, the original
copy will be maintained and kept by those offices.
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Every person living in the rental unit should be included in the agreement.
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Prior to signing this Roommate Agreement, roommates may consult with Student Legal Services. Contact Lester
Wilson, Director of SLS at (434) 924-7524.