The document provides five tips for resolving housemate issues, emphasizing the importance of direct communication and discussing behaviors rather than personality traits. It encourages patience, respect for differences, and finding common ground to facilitate problem-solving. For additional support, it suggests reaching out to student services.

1. CRICOS QLD 00244B NSW 02225M • TEQSA PRV12081 8.2.D 11.2014
UNI V ER S I T Y O F SOUTHER N Q U E ENS L AND
Top 5 tips to help you
resolve housemate issues
Talk to your roommate in person when something is bothering you.
Don’t talk behind their backs because this can cause a breakdown in trust
between the pair of you. Confirm when there is a good time for both
of you to talk or approach them in private. Communication will be less
effective if someone feels rushed or blindsided.
Be direct and clear about what is bothering you. If you don’t tell your
roommate that there is a problem and exactly what it is, they won’t be
able to do anything about it! Discuss the issue in regards to behaviours
rather than personality traits.
Communication works in two ways: talking and listening. Neither
is effective without the other. Be patient when speaking with your
housemate, and remember that there are two sides to every story.
Respect each other’s differences. Everyone has different values, lifestyles,
expectations and communciation styles. Get to know each other and
establish common ground. It is easier to solve a problem with a friend than
a stranger.
The solution will probably involve each person giving and getting
something. This may not be your ideal scenario, but at least it will be an
improvement on the current state of things.
If you need help resolving a housemate issue,
chat to our Student Services.
www.usq.edu.au/current-students/services