How to be a Good Roommate
Communication
Direct and honest communication is essential between roommates. Most problems can be solved with communication. Do not let problems build up. Talk openly and honestly about concerns with your roommate. Just remember that timing is also important: if you know your roommate is having a bad day, hold off until a better chance arises.
Discuss your personal preferences and characteristics, and learn about your prospective roommates' preferences and characteristics
Identify all the household chores and responsibilities and determine who is to do what and when.
Clearly communicate your feelings and provide constructive and positive suggestions to your roommates about their feelings
 
Financial responsibilities
Budget and plan for your respective share of monthly expenses like utilities, telephone, groceries etc. and determine who will be responsible for each of theses bills and how and when the other will be repaid.
Share the responsibility of bills by taking some of them under you name.
Pay your share of bills on time
Schedule
Let each other know in advance when important events (projects, tests) are coming up. With advanced notice, your roommate may be able to make other plans in order to give you some quite time.
Apprise your roommate(s) of your work and/or school schedules, and how and when they might reach you
Identify any special requirements you or your roommates might have from your schedules: (i.e. evening quite hours for study)
Develop a schedule for cleaning the common and public areas of the house and other household chores on a regular basis
Socializing
Discuss your socializing habits - likes and dislikes specifically
Discuss with your roommate(s) and get their approval before hosting social activities at home
Discuss with your roommate(s) plans for overnight guests or visitors. If possible inform them ahead of time.
Personal habits and hobbies
Discuss with you roommate(s) your habits and hobbies, and understand their personal habits and hobbies
Be prepared to alter your personal habits if needed (like listening to music with earphones)
If you have to share a television, Internet connection, stereo, discuss when and how these resources will be shared
And Finally, live by the golden rule... "Do unto others, as you would have done unto you."
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