How to Add a Roommate to a Rental Property Lease

If you want to take on a roommate to lower your rent obligation each month, you should try to have the roommate's name added to the lease agreement. By taking this action, the new roommate becomes legally liable for a portion of the monthly rent. Typically, adding a name to a rental agreement is not a difficult process. However, it can result in some unexpected fees, because your current lease is voided and a new agreement is created. Usually, this action also extends your lease period, since you are essentially starting over.

Instructions

1. Read through your lease agreement to see if there is a provision for the maximum occupancy of your rental. For example, if you have a two-bedroom apartment, you may be limited to only four people in the apartment.

2. Consult with your landlord to see if you can add a roommate to your lease. Ultimately, the landlord must grant approval for the name to be added to the lease.

3. Ask the potential roommate to submit to a credit application with the landlord, if the landlord grants it. Usually the standard application fee applies for this roommate. If approved, you will likely need to sign a whole new lease agreement so the new roommate can be added. In some instances, the landlord may raise the rent or the security deposit due to the addition of another renter. You may even have to pay a fee to break the current lease so a new one can be created.

References

• Nolo: Adding a Roommate to the Lease or Rental Agreement