Starting this fall, University students will have a new vehicle to work out roommate conflicts.
University Mediation Services, the Off-Grounds Housing Office and Student Legal Services have joined forces to create "Ready Roommates," a service dedicated to help roommates avoid miscommunication and minimize future conflicts, according to UMS Coordinator Faith Alejandro.
Alejandro said the service utilizes a roommate agreement contract between roommates to set clear expectations between them as well as specifics concerning issues such as rent payment, noise and cleanliness.
She said the service is primarily targeted at students living in off-Grounds housing, but the newly drafted agreement form is available for all students. First-year students sign similar agreements upon moving into University housing.
"When roommates decide to room together they are making a commitment to each other," Alejandro said. "Being a roommate is a very special relationship and we are trying to maximize that experience."
She added that she was approached by upper-class students last year requesting that such a service be made available.
Director of Student Legal Services Lester Wilson said the agreement contains language that emphasizes roommates' dependence on each other. He added that he often receives complaints from students departing housing, leaving the other roommates a heavier rent burden.
"There are financial responsibilities that need to be honored," Wilson said. "This agreement emphasizes that. We're able to review [the agreement contract] after it's prepared by University Mediation Services. We're trying to work together for students' benefit."
Wilson added that SLS can ensure that the agreement is legally enforceable.
Alejandro encouraged students to use UMS to work through problems regarding roommate-related issues. The agreement specifies a "preferred mediator" for students to consult should conflicts arise.
Alejandro said UMS will hold special office hours to review agreements starting Sept. 13. She added that the agreement form also will be available in the UMS, OGHO or SLS offices and will soon be available for download from the OGHO Web site.
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