One of my roommates has tested positive for COVID-19. What should I do now?

First steps we suggest:

  1. Taking this self-assessment by Google —> https://landing.google.com/screener/covid19?source=google

  2. Reviewing and adhering to the CDC’s guidelines for those in shared housing —> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/shared-housing/

Should I get tested and/or self-quarantine?

This is a personal decision that you can and should discuss with your doctor. We recommend self-quarantining yourself to protect your roommates and others you may come into contact with until you have a confirmed negative test for COVID-19.

Here’s an excerpt from the CDC regarding that question - “To prevent the further spread of disease, COVID-19 contacts are encouraged to stay home and maintain social distance (at least 6 feet) from others until 14 days after their last exposure to a person with COVID-19. Contacts should monitor themselves by checking their temperature twice daily and watching for symptoms of COVID-19.”

Where can I get tested?

CVS is offering free testing to those that qualify. Check the CVS website for full details. If you are ineligible for a free test from CVS, and depending on your personal health situation/history and symptoms, you may need a prescription from your primary care doctor in order to receive a test. We suggest you start with a call to your doctor for more information.

Is it safe to use the common areas?

We recommend reviewing the “Shared kitchens, dining rooms, laundry rooms, bathrooms,” section of the CDC guide on the shared homes page —> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/shared-housing/

When using the common area it is important to practice social distancing (avoid using the kitchen at the same time if possible), disinfect all shared items after use and be extra diligent about keeping the sink empty.

When do things go back to normal?

HomeRoom will be tracking the case at your house and use the CDC’s guidelines to issue and “all clear” to the house and our vendors. This will happen after the follow check points have been achieved:

In your sick roommate:

  • 3 days with no fever and

  • Respiratory symptoms have improved (e.g. cough, shortness of breath) and

  • 10 days since symptoms first appeared

In everyone else:

  • No one else has developed symptoms and

  • Those that have been tested have received a negative test result

For additional information from HomeRoom about COVID-19 please reference our FAQ here —> https://livehomeroom.com/covid-19-general-faq or reach out to us directly below.


HomeRoom Roommate Living. Perfected.