Checklist
Questions to ask before you move into a share house
20questions to take to your inspection
An inspection is your chance to find out what living there is really like. Take this list and you'll know what you're signing up for.
Money
- What's the weekly rent and when is it due?
- Are bills included? If not, how are they split and roughly how much are they?
- How much is the bond and where will it be lodged?
- Is there a kitty for shared supplies?
- Is internet included and how fast is it?
The arrangement
- Who's on the lease, and will I be?
- Is there a minimum stay?
- What's the notice period for me and for you?
- Can I see the agreement before I commit?
- Is the room furnished?
House rules
- How is cleaning shared?
- What's the rule on guests and partners staying over?
- Are pets or smoking allowed?
- Are there quiet hours?
- How are food and fridge space shared?
The people
- Who lives here and what do they do?
- What's a normal weeknight like?
- How long have people been here?
- Why is the room free?
- How do you sort out problems?
How MateHaus helps
Freeto list a room
Freeto message, from day one
Verifiedevery member
- Free for everyone. Browse rooms, post a room-wanted profile and message anyone without paying or waiting.
- Checked listings. Every member verifies their mobile number by SMS code, and every new room listing is checked by the MateHaus team before it goes live.
- Lifestyle match. Both sides answer a few quick questions, and each room shows how well you'd likely live together.
- Inspections in the chat. Pick an open-for-inspection time or suggest one. Once you both accept, you each get a calendar invite.
- Match alerts. Save a search and get an email when a new room suits your budget.
Common questions
What should I ask before moving into a share house?
Ask about the rent and bills, the bond and where it's lodged, who's on the lease, the notice period, house rules on cleaning, guests and noise, and who you'll be living with.
Should I meet the housemates before moving in?
Yes. You're choosing a household, not just a room, so meet the people at the inspection if you can.
How do I book an inspection on MateHaus?
Pick one of the owner's open-for-inspection times or suggest your own in the chat. Once you both accept, you each get a calendar invite.
Find a room or list yours
Free to list, free to message, verified members.
More guides:
- Room for rent: how to find the right room
- Share house living: a practical guide
- Share accommodation explained
- How to rent out a spare room
Read the latest rent news. Prices are in Australian dollars and correct at the time of writing.