Making our own contract for roomates, help needed on how to?

Question

My hubby and i are rooming with 2 of our friends. My friend and I thought it be a great idea to make a contract saying tht we cant back out and that we all have to follow rules that we are establishing. Is there like any site we could use as an example?

Answer 1

I've done this.

Initially if you're in an apartment with your friends there should be a contract signed by the landlord and ALL tenants occupying the place.

If not, Just get a piece of paper (or type it) with the amount each person is expected to pay individually every month for rent, and then a seperate one with utilities. The rent one for example:

I, John Doe, Mary Jane, Jane Doe and Blah Blah, agree to the following rental terms on the following address (add address here) for the months of August 1st, 2008 thru August 1st 2009:

1). Each tenant will pay (amount here) on the (date here) of every month.

(It's always best to make everyone pay with a check too-that way if needed for future court reasons or reference anyone can get a copy of their old check as proof).

2) Each tenant will recive a reciept of all payments

3) Each tenant understands that failure to pay in full each month will result in moving out of the premise and result in court action for the remaining balance due on their part.

(If anyone plans on having pets...make a note of who has what and if a deposit was needed).

Then everyone sign it, preferably have everyone sign it in front of a public notary who also will sign it as a legal document and a witness too!

Other contracts you can make for like utilities...and whatever else

Good Luck

Answer 2

Not really, each person should write down in their own words what the believe should be every one’s responsibility etc, then come together and discuss all the issue then agree to what ever then place that in writing and have every one signed

That said, what is the recourse is a person violates the agreement? Kick them out? Nope the lease agreement supersedes, what if one leaves early? Sure it allows you to sue them but that is a given under the lease but you are still liable for full amount in the mean time

It is a tool to try and keep harmony within the rental but the lease and landlord will always be the final authority