Seven Golden Rules for PG Living This Summer
People travel on holiday during the summer vacation. Working professionals prepare for internships, and students prepare for academic programs. This means many people find themselves living as paying guests (PGs) in cities like Mumbai. PG facilities offer convenience and affordability, but certain house rules must be followed to sustain campus safety and maintain a harmonious living environment. Here are seven golden rules to help you be a good paying guest this summer.
1. Setting Expectations Before Arrival
Before moving into any PG, set clear expectations with your landlord or host. For example, if you are granted a parking permit for a motor vehicle, talk to your landlord in advance about any extra charges. Proper communication can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth stay.
Discussing Check-in and Check-out Times
In Mumbai, service providers operate under trade licenses issued by the concerned department of the city's civil authorities. So, complete the check-in and check-out procedures in advance to ensure a hassle-free move-in and departure. Some PGs may have processes in place to ensure smooth onboarding, so aligning with the host's schedule is crucial.
Clarifying Any Special Requests or Needs
If you have any specific needs, such as dietary preferences, medical requirements, or workspace arrangements in common areas, discuss them beforehand. This allows the landlord to make necessary accommodations or inform you about any limitations. Long-term guests may have to pay an annual fee for facilities like overnight parking and campus shuttles.
Confirming Payment Details and Arrangements
Ensure that you are clear about the rent amount, due dates, and accepted payment methods. Many PGs now use a QR code pasted in each flat for quick and seamless rent payments. This digital payment method ensures transparency and reduces the chances of miscommunication regarding financial transactions.
2. Respect the House Rules
Every PG has its own set of rules and regulations, whether it's about curfews, guest visits, noise levels, or kitchen usage. A hanging tag behind the door usually displays these rules. Make sure to read and understand them to avoid any conflicts. If there's anything unclear, ask the landlord or the host in advance. Adhering to these guidelines will show that you are considerate and responsible.
Also, get notified of any releases or updates in rules by subscribing to the official WhatsApp group initiated by the service provider. This group is the main point of contact, ranging from grievances, maintenance work requests, to notice items.
3. Keep Your Space Clean and Organized
No matter if you have a private room or share with others, your space should be kept clean. Clean up after yourself on a regular basis, do your laundry, and do not leave a mountain of dishes in the kitchen. A clean living environment not only makes for a nice place to be, but it also promotes good hygiene, particularly in shared living quarters.
The shared facilities, including the bathrooms and kitchen, must remain clean at all times. Any problems like jammed sinks and faulty appliances should be reported in the official WhatsApp group immediately to enable timely correction.
4. Be Considerate of Roommates and Neighbours
Since living in a PG involves coexistence with others, sensitivity to their needs is of paramount importance. Don't play loud music, speak loudly on the phone late at night, or hog common facilities. Resident students may have to focus on important assignments at the university campus. Small actions like keeping your voice down during the night or equally sharing common areas can make a world of difference in the atmosphere of the place.
In the summer months, most PGs permit using air conditioners (ACs) to withstand the heat. But it should be used with caution to avoid unnecessary electricity use. Switch off the AC whenever you step out of the room and do not set the AC too low. Adhere to any particular regulation provided by the landlord for AC usage and for electricity charges.
5. Pay Rent and Bills on Time
On-time rent and bill payment is a fundamental yet essential good PG rule. Late payments tend to be bothersome to the landlord and sometimes can even cost one penalties or even eviction. Payment becomes very easy with the use of the QR code, which you may find on hanging tape on the door of every flat for easy, no-hassle transactions. With this mechanism, all payment processes are effectively recorded and one need not confuse themselves about whether one has to pay or for how much.
Setting reminders or automating payments can also assist you in avoiding missed deadlines.
6. Maintain Personal and Shared Hygiene
Summer temperatures can increase sweat and smells, so good personal hygiene will be even more important. Keeping yourself clean, using deodorant, and washing personal belongings will ensure freshness and comfort and contribute to maintaining clean shared environments like bathrooms and kitchens.
In case you face any plumbing or sanitation problems, report them immediately in the official WhatsApp group to enable the repair to be facilitated.
7. Be Honest and Communicative
If you experience any roommate, facility, or house rule issues, talk to the landlord or host openly rather than allowing issues to escalate. Whether it's a maintenance problem or something personal, addressing the issue maturely can avoid unnecessary conflicts. There is CCTV surveillance in the corridors to follow up on serious issues like theft.
The WhatsApp group can also be a platform to respond to grievances. If something disturbs you, bring the point up in polite and professional tone to have your issue resolved.
8. Be Courteous and Friendly
A smile and a polite demeanour can work wonders to create a warm and cozy environment in your PG. Say hello to fellow inmates, respect their privacy, and be friendly but not intrusive. It can make your stay relaxed and enjoyable, if you have good relationships with your landlord and roommates.
Sustain a friendly attitude without overstepping boundaries. If you are a government guest in a government guest house, you respect personal space and keep noise levels in check. Follow these same rules and be willing to compromise when sharing resources.
Final Thoughts
Being a paying guest is not only about paying for a roof over your head; it's also about living with others in harmony. By being a good neighbour and adhering to these seven easy guidelines, you can make your summer pleasant while leaving a good impression on your hosts and fellow guests.
Make use of the official WhatsApp group for free communication, utilize the QR code system for quick rent payments, and be conscious of air conditioner usage to make a comfortable and responsible home environment.
Get ready for a comfortable and memorable stay at a Mumbai PG of your choice!
Are you going to be staying in a PG this summer? Post your tips and experiences below!
