How to Decide Who to Live With in Lancaster: The Ultimate Guide

How Should I Decide Who to Live With Whilst Studying at Lancaster? The Ultimate Guide

Choosing your housemates is, without a doubt, one of the most significant decisions you’ll make during your time at Lancaster University. It’s a choice that shapes your daily life, your ability to study effectively, and your overall happiness. The right group of people can transform a simple student house into a supportive, fun, and memorable home. Conversely, a poor match can introduce unnecessary stress and conflict into an already demanding university schedule.

Making this decision can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to decide who to live with whilst studying at Lancaster. We’ll cover self-assessment, where to find potential housemates, the crucial questions to ask, and the red flags to watch out for.

The First Step: Know Thyself

Before you can find the right people, you need to have an honest conversation with yourself about your own habits, expectations, and lifestyle. Compatibility is a two-way street. Being self-aware will help you articulate what you need from a living situation.

The Cleanliness Spectrum

This is the classic source of household conflict. Where do you fall on the scale?

The Spotless Surgeon: You need surfaces to be wiped down immediately, dishes washed and put away, and clutter to be non-existent.
The Tidy Organiser: You don’t mind a bit of life happening, but you expect a weekly deep clean and for common areas to be kept generally tidy and clutter-free.
The Casual Co-exister: You’re relaxed about mess. A few dishes in the sink don’t bother you, and cleaning is more of a ‘when it gets really bad’ activity. There’s no right or wrong answer, but finding someone on a completely different end of the spectrum is a recipe for tension.

The Social Dynamic: Party Pad or Study Sanctuary?

Consider the atmosphere you want in your home. Are you looking for a social hub where friends are always welcome and weekends are for parties? Or do you need a quiet, calm environment to focus on your studies, especially during exam season? Many students want a balance, but it’s vital to discuss expectations around noise levels, guests, and parties.

H3: Financial Compatibility

Money conversations can be awkward, but they are essential. What is your realistic budget not just for rent, but for bills, council tax (if applicable), and shared items like cleaning supplies? Mismatched financial situations or attitudes towards paying bills on time can quickly sour a living arrangement.

Where to Find Your Future Housemates in Lancaster

Now that you know what you’re looking for, where do you find these people? Don’t just default to your current friendship group.

University & Students’ Union Resources: Lancaster University and the Lancaster University Students’ Union (LUSU) often have resources to help. Check their official housing services and noticeboards, as they sometimes have ‘housemate finder’ events or online forums.
Student Societies: This is a fantastic way to meet people with shared interests. If you’re a member of a society, from debating to sports to subject-specific groups, you already have common ground. These are people you are more likely to be compatible with.
Course Mates: You’ll be spending a lot of time with people on your course. You’ll likely have similar schedules and academic pressures, which can make for a considerate and understanding household.
Trusted Social Media Groups: Look for dedicated Facebook groups for Lancaster students seeking housing. Be cautious and always arrange to meet in person in a public place before making any commitments.
Your Accommodation Provider: Here at Bayt, we often have individuals looking to join a group or fill a spare room in one of our properties. Don’t hesitate to contact us to see if we can help connect you.

The Crucial Questions: The Housemate Interview

Once you have some potential candidates, it’s time to have an open and honest chat. Think of it as a friendly interview. Here are some key questions to ask:

The Deal-Breaker Questions

What’s your budget for rent and bills?
How do you honestly describe your level of cleanliness?
What are your thoughts on having a cleaning rota?
Are you an early bird or a night owl? What’s your typical weekly schedule like?
How do you feel about overnight guests or partners staying over?
Are you a smoker?

The Lifestyle and Personality Questions

What do you study, and what are your study habits like? Do you prefer studying at home or in the library?
What do you enjoy doing in your free time in Lancaster?
Are you looking for a house where everyone does their own thing, or one where you hang out together?
How would you approach resolving a disagreement with a housemate?

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Trust your intuition. If something feels off, it probably is. Be wary of:

Vagueness about finances: Hesitation or unclear answers about their budget or ability to pay bills on time.
Dismissiveness: If they scoff at the idea of a cleaning rota or seem unconcerned about noise levels.
Pressure to decide: Anyone rushing you into signing a contract without giving you time to think.
Lack of rental history: While not always a deal-breaker, a history of disputes with previous landlords or housemates is a major red flag.

Considering Living Alone?

If the search for the perfect housemates seems too daunting, living alone is a valid and popular choice. Many students thrive in their own space.

The Pros: You have complete control over your environment—cleanliness, noise, and decor are all up to you. It’s a peaceful, private sanctuary perfect for focused study.
The Cons: It can be more expensive, and you are solely responsible for all bills and upkeep. Some students may also find it isolating.

At Bayt, we offer a range of modern studio apartments that provide the perfect solution for independent students who want their own space without compromising on quality or location.

Finalising the Decision: The Legal Bit

Once you’ve found your people, ensure you handle the tenancy agreement professionally.

Everyone Reads and Signs: Every single person living in the property must read, understand, and sign the tenancy agreement.
Joint and Several Liability: Understand this term. It means all tenants are responsible, both individually and as a group, for the entire rent. If one person leaves, the others are legally responsible for covering their share.
Discuss Guarantors: Most students will need a guarantor. Ensure everyone has this arranged in advance. For impartial advice on tenancy agreements, you can consult resources like Citizens Advice.

Conclusion: Building Your Lancaster Home

Choosing who to live with is a foundational part of your university journey in Lancaster. By taking the time to understand your own needs, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts, you can find a group of people who will enhance your student experience. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant shared house to create lasting memories or a private studio for focused study, the right living situation is out there.

Ready to find your perfect student home in Lancaster? Explore Bayt’s wide range of high-quality shared houses and private studios and let us help you find the perfect base for your university life.