Roommates
How do I check out a potential roommate before moving in with them?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Meet them in person or on a video call, confirm their name matches their ID and social profiles, ask for a reference from a past landlord or roommate, and ask how they will pay their share. For more certainty, ask them to share a tenant screening report they order themselves.
You are checking two things: that the person is real, and that they can and will pay. A quick process that most honest people will not mind:
- Look at their social profiles. A long-standing account with real friends and history is a better sign than a new, empty one.
- Meet in a public place or on a live video call before any money or keys change hands.
- Ask for one landlord or previous roommate reference, and actually call.
- Ask what they do and how they will cover rent. You do not need a pay stub from a roommate, but vague answers deserve follow-up.
- If you want a credit or background check, ask them to order a tenant screening report and share it, or use a screening service that they authorize. Reputable screening services need the person's consent.
If the landlord is adding them to the lease, the landlord's screening covers much of this. If you are the leaseholder renting them a room, you are carrying the risk, so be thorough.
Walk away from anyone who pushes to skip meeting, wants to pay you far more than asked, or asks you to forward money. Our guide to finding a roommate on Facebook safely covers more red flags.
Want the whole picture? Read How to Find a Roommate You Can Actually Live With.