Roommate Agreement Generator

Frequently asked questions

Is a roommate agreement legally binding?

Yes — a signed roommate agreement is a legally enforceable contract in most jurisdictions. While it doesn't replace the lease with your landlord, it establishes binding obligations between roommates for rent shares, duties, and move-out terms. Courts can enforce these agreements in small claims disputes.

How should roommates split rent fairly?

There are several common approaches: equal split (simplest), proportional by room size or features (private bathroom, more closet space), or income-based percentages. The agreement should document whichever method you choose and include due dates and payment methods to avoid confusion.

What happens if a roommate doesn't pay their share?

The agreement should include consequences for late or missed payments — late fees, a grace period, and at what point non-payment triggers the move-out clause. Remember that if you're all on the same lease, the landlord can hold any tenant responsible for the full rent regardless of your internal agreement.

Should a roommate agreement cover food and groceries?

It's a good idea. Common approaches include: completely separate groceries, shared staples with a rotating purchase schedule, or a shared grocery fund. Defining food boundaries upfront prevents the classic 'someone ate my leftovers' conflict.

Can I use a roommate agreement for a subletting situation?

A roommate agreement works best between co-tenants on the same lease. If you're subletting a room in your apartment, you should use a sublease agreement instead, which addresses the landlord-subtenant-tenant relationship and typically requires landlord approval.