Roommate Bill of Rights

     It is important to note that a room is a private space that should be shared equally by both roommates. As a responsible roommate, it is not appropriate to engage in any activity which would deny your roommate access to the room, or make them feel uncomfortable while in the room. When one roommate has a friend or friends visiting, it should always be with the consent of the other roommate.

     When this isn’t happening and roommates cannot figure out how to confront the problem, we suggest involving one of the Residence Life staff (RAs, RDs).  Please be aware that, should roommates not be able to come to a resolution, or should one roommate continue to exhibit behavior that is inconsiderate or inappropriate, the Residence Life staff may take further action to resolve the conflict.  This may include disciplinary action or a room change.

     For some, living with a roommate may be a new experience.  You will find that sharing a room with another person(s) requires open and honest communication, cooperation, and compromise.  Relationships of any kind involve a bit of work, some give and take, and an understanding of each other.

     The rights listed below are a suggested basis for agreements between roommates.  Time discussing these rights would be well spent and hopefully form the basis for communication between you and your roommate(s).

     To a large extent, your relationship with a roommate is dependent on mutual consideration of the feelings and needs of the other person.  Please remember that with every right goes the responsibility to respect that same right when it is exercised by another person(s).

  • The right to read and study, free from undue interference in your room.
  • The right to sleep without undue disturbance from noise, guests, roommates, etc.
  • The right to expect that roommates will respect each other’s personal belongings.
  • The right to a clean environment in which to live.
  • The right to free access to one’s room and facilities without pressure from a roommate.
  • The right to personal privacy.
  • The right to host guests at agreed upon times, and with the expectation that guests are to respect the rights of the host’s roommate and other hall residents.
  • The right to be free from fear of intimidation, physical and/or emotional harm.
  • The right to refuse requests without having to feel guilty or selfish.
  • The right to feel or express anger.
  • The right to make mistakes.
  • The right to have one’s opinions given the same respect and consideration that other people’s opinions are given.
  • The right to be independent. The right to have one’s needs be as important as those of other people.
  • The right to expect reasonable cooperation in the use of the room telephone and a commitment to honor agreed upon payment procedures.
  • The right to expect that any and all disagreements will be discussed in an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect, and that it is acceptable when any roommate feels it necessary, to involve a residence hall staff member in such discussion.

NOTE:  This Bill of Rights is adapted from the Residence Hall Handbook of Ithaca College.