It takes work to achieve the status of being an acceptable roommate, particularly if you aren’t that close with the people you live with. In theory, it is simple enough—don’t be too dirty or loud, and don’t make a habit of stealing food from the kitchen. However, there is a stunning number of individuals who seem incapable of understanding these basic courtesies.

Things get even more complicated when outside influences like romantic partners join the equation. Many a manageable roommate situation has soured because of an annoying significant other. 

It seems mean to demand a ban on somebody that a roommate is close to, but sometimes, it is the only way to get the problems to stop. Unless they are a part of the tenancy agreement, they are a guest in the house. It is important that they don’t overstep the boundaries of this, no matter how convenient they may find it.