Inconsiderate housemates are costing renters hundreds of pounds a year, new research by Barclays has revealed. An overwhelming majority of renters deal with common house-sharing gripes – from dirty dishes to indoor vaping – though few are willing to admit they could be responsible. These ‘housemate horrors’ are also prompting renters to consider their options and take the first steps towards getting on the property ladder.

Almost two thirds (64 per cent) of house-sharers say they’ve been left out of pocket because fellow tenants didn’t pay their share of bills, communal costs or damage, with the average renter forking out an extra £553.20 each year due to living with a horror housemate.

The research also revealed the key frustrations that are causing renters to fall out. Dirty dishes (29 per cent) and playing loud music or watching TV at antisocial hours (30 per cent) remain Gen Z and Millennials’ biggest bugbears, but modern irritations are emerging. One in five young house-sharers (19 per cent) have lived with a Nocturnal Gamer, whose late-night sessions disturb others, while 17 per cent say they have shared with a Persistent Puffer, who regularly vapes or smokes indoors.

Meanwhile, 18 per cent of Millennials and Gen Z have had to endure WhatsApp Micromanagers, who bombard the house group chat with endless reminders or passive-aggressive messages, and 12 per cent have navigated the awkwardness of Serial Snappers, who constantly film social media content in communal areas.

Dr Becky Spelman, Psychologist and Founder of Private Therapy Clinic, said: “Even the best friendships are tested when you live together. Sharing a home can be both comforting and challenging, because our different routines, habits and emotional needs inevitably collide. Small things can start to feel personal, when really, they’re often about people protecting their own comfort or managing stress. The healthiest way to navigate these moments is through open, respectful communication rather than silence or resentment.

"Modern house-sharing can be intense, but it also helps us learn patience, empathy and boundaries. It’s completely normal to crave independence or dream of your own space; that’s not a rejection of your friendships, it’s a natural step in adult life and personal growth."

Jatin Patel, Head of Mortgages, Savings and Insurance at Barclays, said: “House-sharing is a rite of passage for many young adults, but the reality of splitting bills, chasing rent payments and covering extra costs due to housemate issues is making young renters think more seriously about their own financial future.

“It’s no surprise so many renters want to explore how they could buy a place of their own, but saving for a deposit is the main barrier they face. While families often want to help, they can’t always afford to gift money.”