"How do I deal with the bar bill in a summer share?"

I’m new to the summer-share scene, and I think it’s unfair that we all have to split the cost of the house alcohol. Obviously, some people drink way more than others, and these boozers I’m staying with are really racking up the house bar bill. What do you suggest I do?

"Boozers?" Please, let’s not resort to name-calling! And let’s also remember that it’s not your job — it’s nobody’s job — to keep track of how much others are drinking. Still, your situation has long divided summer households, which is why it’s always smart to establish the house rules before the season starts. You need to set clear guidelines determining what exactly your share entitles you to, how bills will be paid, special rules (or even extra charges) for tricks or overnight guests, and policies about house alcohol or drug use on the premises.

At this point, it's a bit late to say you have a problem with an arrangement you've already agreed to or have been tacitly supporting. If you raise your hand now, your roomies are likely to think you’re just trying to get off without paying your share. But in a day and age when Tea Partiers carry signs saying, "I'll pay for my house, you pay for yours," let me remind you (and our Tea Partiers) that there is such a thing as community. While you may drink less than your housemates, you might eat more than they do, and yet you equally divide the cost of your rations. Or perhaps you frolic daily in the heated pool, while others dip a toe in from time to time; but everyone splits the cost of the heating bill and the pool boy.

It may not be entirely equitable for you to subsidize your buds’ drinking, but if you went into the summer with a good set of house rules, your situation should be fair overall.

Of course, no one says you need to rejoin this household next summer.