Co-living rules that people actually follow.
Vague rules create arguments. Specific rules with consequences create accountability. Here's the difference — and a free template.
All 6 sections · Signature blocks · Sent by email instantly
Why most house rules fail.
Most co-living house rules fail for one reason: they're too vague.
"Keep the kitchen clean" is not a rule. It's a wish.
"Kitchen cleaned by Sunday 8pm — dishes washed, counters wiped, floor swept" is a rule.
The more specific the rule, the less room for "that's not what I meant." And the easier it is to document when someone breaks it.
The 6 areas every co-living agreement needs.
Cleaning responsibilities
Who cleans what, by when, how often. Not “everyone cleans” — specific rooms, specific tasks, specific days.
Kitchen: [Name] — Mondays by 9pm Bathroom: [Name] — Fridays by 9pm Common areas: rotate weekly
Noise and quiet hours
Quiet hours: 10pm–8am on weekdays, 11pm–9am on weekends. No exceptions for guests.
Guests and visitors
Overnight guests: max 3 consecutive nights. Partners: discuss before regular stays. Parties: 48-hour notice to all roommates.
Payments and shared expenses
Rent due: 1st of each month, no grace period. Shared expenses split equally unless agreed otherwise in writing.
Shared supplies
Toilet paper, dish soap, trash bags: shared cost, restocked by rotating schedule. Personal food: clearly labeled, separate shelf.
Conflict resolution
Issues raised within 24 hours of the incident. Written record of any agreements reached. Unresolved disputes: AI arbitration through Coun5el.
Get the complete rules template.
Pre-filled with examples for all 6 areas. Signature blocks for all roommates. Sent to your inbox instantly.
- ✓All 6 sections pre-filled with examples
- ✓Signature blocks for all roommates
- ✓Coun5el account setup guide included
What happens when rules are broken.
A rule without consequence isn't a rule.
Coun5el's Strike Score system tracks every documented violation:
First violation
Warning logged with timestamp
Pattern of violations
Management automatically notified
Serious violations
Escalation process triggered
Every incident documented with timestamp. No "he said she said."