Deposits and Move-In/Move-Out
Decide Now Who Gets the Deposit Back
Before move-in, every roommate signs a deposit form that picks one of three options: one refund check made out to all roommates together, a split by shares everyone agreed to in writing, or the whole refund to one named roommate who pays the others back. It applies to every shared home, couples included, and it prevents the most common move-out fight.
Why this helps
It's not the most fun talk, but it's the one that keeps move-out friendly. Every roommate signs a deposit form that picks one of three options, couples included, so nobody is left guessing where the refund goes.
Do this
- Before you move in, have every roommate sign a deposit form. Signing early means nobody has to bring it up when feelings are high.
- Pick one refund check made out to all roommates together, a split by shares you agreed to in writing, or the whole refund to one named roommate who pays the others back. Any of the three is fine as long as everyone agrees and signs.
- Use that same form for every shared home. Couples sign too, so everyone is treated the same way.
Next step
Sit down together this week, pick your option, and sign the form before the deposit is paid. Do you mind being the one to bring it up? Everybody will thank you!