housemate

A housemate is a person who lives in the same dwelling as one or more other residents. The term emphasizes sharing a dwelling rather than a single room and typically implies that the residents share common areas such as the kitchen, living room, and bathroom while maintaining private bedrooms.

Usage varies by region. In the United States, the term roommate is more common, while in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries housemate or flatmate is frequently heard. Flatmate generally refers to sharing a flat or apartment, whereas housemate can apply to any shared house arrangement.

Housemates often participate in a shared living arrangement that includes dividing rent, utilities, and household chores. They may establish house rules, guest policies, and agreements about privacy and noise. Effective communication and clearly defined expectations help prevent conflicts.

From a legal perspective, housemates' rights and obligations depend on tenancy arrangements. If multiple people are named on a tenancy agreement, they are typically co-tenants with joint and several liability for rent. If one person is the tenant and others are subtenants or room renters, subtenant rights and responsibilities may differ.