Adding a Roommate to Your Lease

Communication Is Important

Leasing is a popular way for people to find suitable housing at affordable prices. A residential lease agreement generally lasts for a period of 12 months, but they can be set for any term the landlord and tenant agree upon. One of the challenges of an extended lease for the tenant is if an event occurs that requires them to take on a roommate, change a roommate, or add a person to the lease, such as a fiancé. When this occurs, it is important to communicate the intention with the landlord so as not to violate the existing lease agreement.

Rewrites May Be Needed

The Monthly Rent and Security Deposit

It is not uncommon for a landlord to increase the monthly rent when another person occupies the premises due to increased wear and tear on the property. It is also not uncommon for a landlord to request additional security deposit money if a roommate is added to the lease agreement, so be prepared for this possibility.

Generally speaking, many landlords do not have a problem adding a roommate to an existing lease agreement, especially if the potential roommate has excellent credit and references. The addition of another tenant helps to ensure that there are broader resources to pay the rent on time. However, it is also not uncommon for the landlord to take the opportunity to increase the rent, so that possibility should be considered prior to committing to adding a roommate to a lease.

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