Housemate Disputes

This is part of our information on Renting Off Campus and Moving in and living in the property.

However much you plan, things may still go wrong. These pages provide general guidance on how to avoid disputes, and how to resolve them, should a dispute arise.

Sharing with housemates who may have different lifestyles, habits, customs and cultures is normally a positive experience, but problems can arise where there is a clash of lifestyles or differing standards.

What may begin as a small issue about hygiene, noise or cleaning can develop into a serious problem. It’s important to think about how to avoid issues arising in the first place and where they do arise, how to stop them escalating.

Here are some suggestions to minimise conflict:

  • Consider pre-agreed house rules as soon as possible, for example: don’t leave dishes in the sink, clean the bathroom after you’ve finished, what food will be shared etc. This way you will each have an agreed expectation that you can hold your housemates to.
  • Draw up a rota for housework such as washing up or loading and emptying the dishwasher
  • Be considerate - respect your housemates’ space, food, and property.
  • Agree to share any bills or other liabilities such as rent. We produce a ‘deed of indemnity’ form available on request that can be used by tenants to agree to an equal share of rent.
  • Deal with any issues early rather than allowing things to build up.
  • Talk face to face rather than via text message or group chat, as this can help to avoid misunderstanding or miscommunication.

If things cannot be resolved there are various support services available on and off-campus. The Student Advice and Support Service can advise on the rights and responsibilities of tenants, including where you or one of your housemates feel there is no alternative but to move out.

Other sources of guidance and support include the .

If a dispute between housemates escalates into violence or intimidation this is most likely to be in breach of the University’s code of discipline and the Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é Student Charter. Our Disciplinary pages have more information about this.

If you have been the victim of assault or harassment or are fearful you will be, speak to the Police as soon as possible. In an emergency call 999 and in a non-emergency call 101. You may need emergency accommodation in which case you can contact Student Services for advice and support.

Last Updated: 29th April 2026