Sublets
Can I sublet my room without asking my roommates?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
You should not. Even if your landlord approves, your roommates will be sharing a kitchen and bathroom with the subtenant, and if everyone is on one lease, they may share responsibility for what that person does. Tell them early, involve them in choosing, and give them the chance to meet the person first.
Legally, it depends on the lease. If you all signed one lease, the landlord may need to approve the subtenant and may hold all tenants responsible for them. Some roommate agreements also say roommates must approve anyone new. Practically, a subtenant your roommates did not agree to often leads to a miserable few months for everyone.
A process that tends to work:
- Tell your roommates your dates as soon as you know them.
- Agree on basics you will ask for: gender preference if any, quiet hours, guests, pets, smoking.
- Share applicants with them and let them join a video call or meeting with your top choice.
- Explain the house rules and bill splits to the subtenant before they sign.
- Stay reachable during the sublet in case problems come up.
Make sure bill splits are clear. Your subtenant should pay your share of utilities, and your roommates should know whether that money comes through you or directly to them.
More on living arrangements with others is in roommates.
Want the whole picture? Read How to Find a Sublet or Roommate on Facebook Safely.