Living with roommates, whether they’re your best friends or complete strangers, can be hit or miss. Regardless of your relationship, you share a mutual space (sometimes very close quarters) and problems can easily arise.

It’s important to work through any issues you might have as you can’t completely avoid them or walk away at a moment’s notice. Here are some problems you might be having and how you can fix them.

They’re Never (or Always) Home
If you never see your roommate and it’s not because you don’t get along, make it a point to plan activities together. Whether it’s as simple as binge-watching The Bachelor or going on a walk after work, it’ll be a great way to bond after a long work day. But if you’re facing an opposite situation and your roomie is always home, encourage them to get involved with a new hobby in your city or take a workout class with you.

Their S.O. or Best Friend Has Practically Moved In
Company is always fun, but when you being to see them a little too much, it turns into a problem. Let your roomie know that this is your space just as much as it’s theirs and that you would prefer times when no guests are over. If their guest is disrespectful to you or your items, tell your roomie you’re uncomfortable with this person and you would prefer for them to hang out elsewhere.

They’re Messy
Let your roommate know that keeping your place tidy will benefit both of you. Encourage them to pick up any of their belongings that are in common areas and split the cleaning amongst the apartment or house with a weekly schedule.

There Are No Boundaries
Whether it’s a privacy thing or your roommate likes to browse your closet without asking, letting this issue slide will only make it worse in the long run. Discuss your comfort level in regards to sharing with your roomie and ask them to respect it. Every person is different so try to remain open minded and positive as you talk it out.

Your Schedules Clash
Does your roommate like to go to SoulCycle at the crack of dawn or sleep throughout the day? Figure out the best solution for you both by comparing schedules and down times. She might not even realize that she’s impairing your sleep or study time.

Do you have any tips on how to mend roommate issues? Let us know in the comments below!

xx, The FabFitFun Team