Renting a house or apartment with roommates is a great way to reduce personal monthly housing costs. However, it is very important to choose your roommate(s) carefully and have discussions about a variety of topics before choosing to live together. It is common to have all roommates sign a Roommate Agreement so that everyone understands their roles and expectations before moving in together. Some topics of discussion or items to include in an agreement are:

  1. Rent/Money: Who is responsible for collecting and paying rent? Will everyone pay the same amount? Will everyone pay for other expenses and utilities or will people only pay for the things they use? Who will actually be responsible for paying those other bills and expenses?
  2. Chores and cleaning: How will household responsibilities like cleaning, taking out the garbage, buying groceries, washing the dishes, etc., be divided among roommates?
  3. Rules regarding personal possessions: What items in the apartment (in common areas like the living room or kitchen) are permitted for everyone’s use? Some examples might include video game consoles, items in the fridge, cookware, hair dryers, etc. Is there a fund for communal items such as dish washing soap, toilet paper, garbage bags, etc.?
  4. Guests and quiet hours: What is the rule surrounding guests staying overnight? Are there set hours where noise is to be kept to a minimum? Are parties allowed?
  5. Summer months: What are the financial responsibilities of those not staying for the summer? Who is responsible for renewing the lease with the landlord?

The information contained in this section of the website is for reference only and is provided as general guidelines for U of M students searching for off-campus housing and for prospective landlords. Provincial Acts governing the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants are under the jurisdiction of the Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba. Complete information on rights and responsibilities can be found on their website or by contacting their office at:

Residential Tenancies Branch
302 – 254 Edmonton Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3Y4
Telephone: 204-945-2476
Toll Free in Manitoba: 1-800-782-8403
FAX: 204-945-6273