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Using a "Household Expectations Agreement" with Your Adult Child Living at Home

household expectations

If you’re a frustrated parent looking for a “printable household expectations agreement” then we think we have you covered!

 

We have just such an agreement available for download – but we refer to it as our “Contract for an Adult Child Living at Home.”

 

Are you in the unenviable position of having to deal with…

 

  • A freeloading adult child?

  • A boomerang kid?

  • A mooching family member?

  • A “visiting” relative that just won’t leave?

 

If so, then a printable household expectations agreement might be just the tool you need to help alleviate some of the headaches caused by such a circumstance.

 

What is the purpose of a printable household expectations agreement?

 

A well-written household expectations agreement identifies the rules, expectations, and obligations that are expected of an individual that is living in another individual’s home (usually the homeowner or leaser).

 

Contents of a Household Expectations Agreement

 

A detailed “household expectations agreement” typically covers as many issues related to “living together” as possible or necessary.  Most agreements will cover such topics as…

 

  1. Financial obligations (if applicable)

  2. Tasks/chores

  3. Rules regarding visitors/guests

  4. Expectations regarding shared living spaces

  5. Rules regarding substances

  6. Expectations regarding noise-level

  7. Use of shared resources (food, supplies, etc.)

  8. Anything else of relevance

 

Benefits of using a household expectations agreement (or “contract for an adult child living at home”)

 

Obviously, the main goal of the agreement/contract is to create a living situation that does not inconvenience the homeowner any more than should be expected.  Another goal is to help avoid disagreements and misunderstandings.  If expectations are clearly stated (and followed) then the hope is that it will lead to a more peaceful co-existence between the two parties.

What if the agreement isn’t followed?

 

There should be a formal understanding as to how things will transpire should the terms of the agreement not be followed.  For instance, 1st infraction might just be verbal warning, 2nd infraction might lead to a written warning – and the 3rd infraction might lead to a 30-day notice to move out.  Either way, these details should be included in the agreement and should be followed as stated. 

 

…and finally,

 

There are a few more details to consider with regards to putting a household expectations agreement in place.

 

  1. The agreement should be fair to both parties

  2. The agreement should be well-understood by both parties.

  3. The agreement should be signed by both parties.

  4. The agreement should be as detailed as possible.

  5. The agreement should include a “move out date” goal.

  6. Both parties should have a copy of the agreement.

 

If you are interested in the “Contract for an Adult Child” that we offer on this site, then please click the link below (or click on the “Home” button in the menu) and you will learn more about this wonderful tool.

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