Subletting Basics

Steps for a smooth sublet

From the guide’s own checklist. Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this device. These are examples; your home may need others.

• Lease read for what it says about subletting, assignments and guests
• Owner asked for permission in writing, with the dates and the person’s information
• Roommates told early and included
• Possible subtenants met, references checked, choices fair and consistent
• Simple sublease written: dates, rent, utilities, house rules and how keys are returned
• Utilities decided and written down
• Renters insurance agent asked, and the subtenant asked to get their own policy
• Home walked together with a condition report and photos before keys
• Rent paid on time and the home cared for, all through the sublet

All done. Your sublet is set up to go smoothly for everyone.

If a sublet runs into trouble

1. Take a breath. Most sublet problems can be worked out with a calm conversation.
2. Talk with the subtenant kindly about the issue, whether it is late rent, noise or damage.
3. Look at the written sublease and the original lease to see what each person agreed to.
4. Keep the owner or manager informed, especially if rent is late or the home is at risk.
5. Write down what happened, with dates and photos, and keep copies of every message.
6. If you can’t resolve it, a local tenant association, mediation service or attorney can help.

You did exactly the right thing.

Sublet or assignment?

In a sublet, the original tenant usually keeps the lease and rents to someone else for a time, staying responsible to the owner.

In an assignment, the original tenant usually transfers the lease to someone new, who takes over the lease going forward, if the owner agrees.

Roommates come first. They will live with your subtenant every day.

For owners: when a sublet request comes in

1. Respond promptly and in writing, with clear reasons if you say no.
2. Follow the lease and local rules, which in some places limit when consent can be refused.
3. Use the same fair screening standards you use for any applicant.
4. Confirm in writing who is responsible for rent, damage and the deposit during the sublet.
5. Write down what was requested, what was decided and when.

A simple, written sublet request form makes the process fair for everyone.

Guides that go well with this one

• Ending a Lease Early
• Reading Your Lease
• Roommate Agreements
• Move-In and Move-Out Inspections
• Renter's Insurance Basics