Question 1

How do you split rent fairly in a shared apartment?

Accepted Answer

The fairest method is splitting by room size: everyone pays proportionally to their room's area. Common areas (kitchen, bathroom, hallway) are split equally. Our calculator does this automatically.

Question 2

What are utility costs and how are they split in a WG?

Accepted Answer

Utility costs include heating, water, waste disposal, caretaker, and insurance. They're typically split equally since consumption in shared spaces can't be measured individually.

Question 3

Who pays the broadcasting fee in a shared apartment?

Accepted Answer

The broadcasting fee (EUR 18.36/month) is charged per household, not per person. In a shared flat, it's typically split equally. Officially, the person who registered is liable.

Question 4

How does the annual utility bill work in a WG?

Accepted Answer

The annual settlement compares advance payments with actual costs. The additional payment or credit is split among everyone who lived there during the billing period — proportionally by months.

Question 5

What happens when a flatmate moves out?

Accepted Answer

When moving out, utility costs are calculated proportionally. The departing flatmate only pays for the months they actually lived there. Outstanding expenses should be settled beforehand.

Question 6

Does rent always have to be split equally?

Accepted Answer

No! Equal splitting is only fair when all rooms are the same size and equally attractive. With different room sizes, splitting by square metres is more equitable.

Question 7

What's the easiest way to split groceries in a WG?

Accepted Answer

Best practice is to collect all expenses over a period (e.g., one month) and then settle up. Our Settle Up tab does exactly that: everyone enters what they paid, and the calculator determines the minimum number of transfers.

Question 8

What apps are good for WG expense tracking?

Accepted Answer

Popular apps include Splitwise, Tricount, and Flatastic. Our roommate calculator offers a free alternative right in the browser — no registration, no data storage.

Question 9

How do you avoid money conflicts in a shared apartment?

Accepted Answer

Clear rules from the start: rent by room size, utilities equally, regular settlement of shared expenses. Transparency and a fixed settlement system prevent 90% of conflicts.

Question 10

Can you deduct shared apartment costs from taxes?

Accepted Answer

Partially: craftsman services and household services (e.g., stairwell cleaning) can be partially deducted. Rent itself isn't deductible for private individuals, except for a home office.

Guide: Roommate Calculator

Splitting Shared Apartment Costs Fairly — The Complete 2026 Guide

How to Split the Utility Bill in a Shared Apartment

Broadcasting Fee in Shared Apartments: Who Pays?

Creating a Cleaning Schedule for Your Shared Apartment

Splitting Rent by Room Size: The Fair Method

New Roommate Moving In: Adjusting Costs and Contracts