Free Roommate Agreement Template

A roommate agreement is generally enforceable as a contract between the parties who sign it, but it does not replace your lease with the landlord. Courts will usually honor reasonable terms about rent splits, deposits, and notice periods. For specific legal questions, consult an attorney in your state.

Not necessarily. One roommate may be the primary leaseholder while the other is a sublessee or co-occupant. The roommate agreement can document the financial arrangement between you regardless of whose name is on the lease. Just be aware that the leaseholder is ultimately responsible to the landlord.

Common methods include splitting equally, splitting by bedroom size or quality, or splitting by income proportion. Whatever you choose, document it explicitly in the agreement so there are no disputes later.

A typical agreement requires 30 days written notice and obligates the departing roommate to help find a replacement. The remaining roommate is usually responsible for their own portion of rent until a new roommate moves in or the lease ends.

No. A simple written agreement signed by both parties is generally enough. This template covers the most common scenarios. For complex situations (high rent, unusual arrangements, or expected disputes) consult a local attorney.

The deposit goes to the landlord per the lease, regardless of who paid which portion. The roommate agreement should document who paid what so the deposit can be returned proportionally when you move out.

Yes. Roommate agreements often address pets, including which pets are allowed, who is responsible for care, who pays for pet-related damage, and any restrictions on guest pets. Make sure your lease also allows pets before agreeing to keep one.