Roommates
Adding a Roommate? Get Approval First
Most leases require landlord approval before anyone new moves in, and new roommates usually have to qualify like any applicant. Moving someone in early can put everyone's lease at risk. Apply first, wait for approval, and get a signed lease update with their name on it.
Why this helps
Moving someone in early can put the whole lease at risk, and that's a rough way to start with a new roommate. Waiting for a yes keeps everyone already on the lease on steady ground.
Do this
- Check the lease for landlord approval before anyone new moves in. Reading it first tells you exactly what's required.
- Have the new roommate qualify like any applicant. It's the same path everyone else walked.
- Apply first, and wait for approval. A little patience now saves a lot of stress later.
- Get a signed lease update with their name on it. Then it's official, and everyone knows where they stand.
Next step
Ask the landlord first, and hold onto that spare key until you hear a yes. It's okay to tell your friend you're waiting on an answer.