Question about having a roommate (lease agreement)?

Question

I'm trying to move out of my parents house and thinking of getting a roommate but my parents are saying it's not a good idea because if they decide to bell out I will be responsible for their portion of the rent, is this true? I've heard of leases were roomates are on a seperate lease each, know anything about this (is there anything to be aware of with these kind of leases)?

Answer 1

Your parents are right if you are both on the lease.  There are group homes I've seen where essentially the landlord rented each room seperately (and even set a different rent for each room) and had a seperate lease for each individual tenant, but I've only seen this once.  I think even in group situations one lease with everyone on it is the norm.

Anyhow, this is a major problem, but if you can find a really trustworthy roommate then it should be fine.

Answer 2

If both are on the lease, both are jointly and separately liable for the rent.  That means if one bails, the other holds the bag.  No landlord will provide separate leases each for a portion of the apartment.

Your parents are correct.

Answer 3

There is some true to what your parents are telling you.  It has to do with the agreement you have in writing with the landlords and/or the agency who handles the property.  If the landlords agrees not to hold you liable for any unpaid rent from a roommate then you are free and clear of being held responsible.  However if it isn't in the agreement then who ever is living in the rental unit is held responsible,  of course you can sue your roommate in small claims for any unpaid rent.  Just remember to get everything in writing no matter who the roommate is friend or not and make sure it is also in the rental agreement.