What if one roommate stops paying rent?

If a roommate stops paying their share, the other roommates are still responsible for the full rent under the master lease (joint and several liability). The roommate agreement gives you a written record that the non-paying roommate agreed to pay a specific amount, which you can use as evidence in small claims court to recover the money. Document all missed payments in writing and send formal notices.

Can I add a third roommate later?

Yes, but you will need to: (1) get landlord approval if the lease requires it, (2) have all existing roommates agree, and (3) create an amended roommate agreement that all parties sign. The new roommate should also be added to the master lease if possible. Never allow someone to move in without updating the agreement — verbal arrangements often lead to disputes.

What happens if a roommate wants to move out early?

The agreement requires the departing roommate to give advance written notice (30, 60, or 90 days as selected). The departing roommate remains responsible for their share of rent until a replacement is found or the notice period ends. They should help find a replacement roommate who is acceptable to the remaining roommates and the landlord. The master lease may also have provisions about early termination.

Do all roommates need to be on the master lease?

Not necessarily, but it is strongly recommended. If only one person is on the lease, they bear all legal responsibility to the landlord and essentially become a sub-landlord to the others. Roommates who are not on the lease have fewer legal protections and could be asked to leave with shorter notice. Having everyone on the lease ensures equal rights and responsibilities.

How should we handle disagreements about house rules?

Start with a calm, direct conversation. If that does not resolve the issue, refer to the dispute resolution method you selected in this agreement. For ongoing issues, consider scheduling regular house meetings (weekly or monthly) to address concerns before they escalate. Document any changes to rules in writing as amendments to this agreement, signed by all roommates.

Free Roommate Agreement Template — Fill Out & Download Instantly

Free — No Sign-Up RequiredPDF & WordUpdated April 7, 2026

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer: This template is attorney-reviewed and built to US legal standards. It does not substitute for professional legal advice. For complex situations, we recommend consulting a licensed attorney.

Document Completeness24%

Governing State*

The state where the rental property is located

Property Address*

Full address of the shared rental property, including unit number

Lease Start Date*

MM/DD/YYYY

Lease End Date*

MM/DD/YYYY

Full legal names of everyone sharing the space

Roommate 1 — Full Name*

Full legal name of the first roommate

Roommate 2 — Full Name*

Full legal name of the second roommate

Roommate 3 — Full Name (if applicable)

Leave blank if there are only two roommates

Financial responsibilities and how costs are split

Total Monthly Rent ($)*

Total monthly rent for the entire property

Rent Split Details*

Describe how rent is divided among roommates — include room assignments if applicable

Total Security Deposit ($)*

Total security deposit paid to the landlord

Deposit Split Details*

Describe how the deposit is divided and how refunds will be handled

Utilities and Shared Expenses*

List each utility and shared expense, how it is split, and who manages the account

Common area rules, guests, quiet hours, and cleaning

Common Area Rules*

Rules for shared spaces including kitchen, bathroom, and living areas

Guest Policy*

Rules for having guests over, especially overnight

Quiet Hours*

Hours during which roommates agree to keep noise to a minimum

Cleaning Responsibilities*

Describe the cleaning schedule, rotation, and individual responsibilities

Parking, pets, termination, and dispute resolution

Parking Arrangements

Describe parking assignments if applicable

Pets Allowed

Move-Out Notice Period*

How much advance written notice a roommate must give before moving out

Dispute Resolution*

How disagreements between roommates will be resolved

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ROOMMATE AGREEMENT

This Roommate Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into as of [Lease Start Date], by and between the following individuals (collectively, the "Roommates"):

Roommate 1: [Roommate 1 — Full Name]

Roommate 2: [Roommate 2 — Full Name]

The Roommates agree to share the rental property located at:

[Property Address]

(the "Property")

This Agreement establishes the rights, responsibilities, and house rules for all Roommates during the period of shared occupancy. All Roommates agree to abide by the terms set forth below.

1. TERM

1.1 Lease Period. This Agreement shall be effective from [Lease Start Date] through [Lease End Date], unless terminated earlier in accordance with Section 9 of this Agreement.

1.2 Relation to Master Lease. This Agreement is supplementary to the master lease between the Roommates (or the primary tenant) and the landlord. In the event of a conflict between this Agreement and the master lease, the master lease shall control. All Roommates agree to comply with the terms of the master lease.

2. RENT

2.1 Total Monthly Rent. The total monthly rent for the Property is $[Total Monthly Rent ($)].

2.2 Rent Split. The rent shall be divided among the Roommates as follows:

[Rent Split Details]

2.3 Due Date. Each Roommate's share of rent is due on or before the first (1st) day of each month. If the landlord charges a late fee due to any Roommate's failure to pay on time, the late-paying Roommate shall be solely responsible for the late fee.

2.4 Payment Method. Roommates shall pay their share directly to the designated rent collector or landlord as mutually agreed.

3. SECURITY DEPOSIT

3.1 Total Deposit. The total security deposit for the Property is $[Total Security Deposit ($)].

3.2 Deposit Split. The security deposit is divided as follows:

[Deposit Split Details]

3.3 Damage Responsibility. Each Roommate is responsible for damage they cause to the Property. If damage cannot be attributed to a specific Roommate, the cost of repair shall be split equally among all Roommates. Damage to a Roommate's private bedroom shall be that Roommate's sole responsibility.

4. UTILITIES AND SHARED EXPENSES

4.1 Utility Responsibilities. The Roommates agree to the following arrangement for utilities and shared household expenses:

[Utilities and Shared Expenses]

4.2 Timely Payment. Each Roommate shall pay their share of utilities within five (5) days of being notified of the amount due. Failure to pay may result in the responsible Roommate being charged any applicable late fees or reconnection fees.

5. COMMON AREA RULES

5.1 Shared Spaces. The Roommates agree to the following rules for common areas:

[Common Area Rules]

5.2 Personal Belongings. Each Roommate shall keep personal belongings in their private bedroom or designated storage area. Items left in common areas for more than 48 hours may be moved by other Roommates.

5.3 Respect for Property. All Roommates shall treat the Property, furniture, appliances, and each other's personal belongings with reasonable care.

6. GUESTS

6.1 Guest Policy. Roommates must provide at least twenty-four (24) hours' advance notice to all other Roommates before having a guest visit. The host Roommate is responsible for their guest's behavior, compliance with house rules, and any damage caused by the guest.

6.2 Extended Guests. Any guest who stays for more than seven (7) consecutive days or fourteen (14) days in any calendar month shall be considered an unauthorized occupant unless all Roommates agree in writing. An extended guest may be required to contribute to rent and utilities.

7. QUIET HOURS

7.1 Quiet Hours. Quiet hours are in effect from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM daily. During quiet hours, Roommates shall keep noise to a minimum, including music, television, phone calls, and conversations. Headphones should be used for media consumption during quiet hours.

7.2 Exceptions. Quiet hour exceptions for special occasions (parties, gatherings) require advance agreement from all Roommates at least 48 hours in advance.

8. CLEANING

8.1 Cleaning Responsibilities. The Roommates agree to the following cleaning arrangement:

[Cleaning Responsibilities]

8.2 Personal Spaces. Each Roommate is solely responsible for cleaning and maintaining their own bedroom.

8.3 Failure to Clean. If a Roommate consistently fails to fulfill their cleaning responsibilities after being notified in writing, the other Roommates may hire a cleaning service and charge the non-compliant Roommate's share to that Roommate.

11. MOVE-OUT AND TERMINATION

11.1 Notice Period. Any Roommate wishing to move out before the end of the lease term must provide 30 days' written notice to all other Roommates.

11.2 Replacement Roommate. A departing Roommate shall make reasonable efforts to help find a suitable replacement who is acceptable to the remaining Roommate(s) and the landlord. The departing Roommate remains responsible for their share of rent until a replacement moves in or the notice period expires, whichever comes first.

11.3 Move-Out Condition. The departing Roommate shall leave their bedroom and any private areas in clean, undamaged condition (normal wear and tear excepted) and remove all personal belongings by the move-out date.

11.4 Deposit Return. The departing Roommate's share of the security deposit shall be returned after: (a) the room is inspected and found in acceptable condition; (b) all outstanding rent and utility balances are settled; and (c) any damage attributable to the departing Roommate is deducted.

12. DISPUTE RESOLUTION

12.1 House Meeting. Any dispute between Roommates shall first be addressed through a house meeting where all Roommates are present. Each Roommate shall have the opportunity to state their concerns, and the Roommates shall attempt to reach a mutually acceptable resolution through respectful discussion.

12.2 Good Faith. All Roommates agree to act in good faith, communicate openly, and make reasonable efforts to resolve disagreements before escalating to formal dispute resolution.

13. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of [Governing State].

14. GENERAL PROVISIONS

14.1 Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding among the Roommates regarding their shared living arrangement and supersedes all prior discussions or agreements.

14.2 Amendments. This Agreement may be amended only by a written document signed by all Roommates.

14.3 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

14.4 No Landlord-Tenant Relationship. This Agreement does not create a landlord-tenant relationship between any of the Roommates. All Roommates' rights as tenants are governed by the master lease and applicable state law.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Roommates have signed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

_________________________________

[Roommate 1 — Full Name]

Date: _______________

_________________________________

[Roommate 2 — Full Name]

Date: _______________

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Governing State*

The state where the rental property is located

Property Address*

Full address of the shared rental property, including unit number

Lease Start Date*

MM/DD/YYYY

Lease End Date*

MM/DD/YYYY

Full legal names of everyone sharing the space

Roommate 1 — Full Name*

Full legal name of the first roommate

Roommate 2 — Full Name*

Full legal name of the second roommate

Roommate 3 — Full Name (if applicable)

Leave blank if there are only two roommates

Financial responsibilities and how costs are split

Total Monthly Rent ($)*

Total monthly rent for the entire property

Rent Split Details*

Describe how rent is divided among roommates — include room assignments if applicable

Total Security Deposit ($)*

Total security deposit paid to the landlord

Deposit Split Details*

Describe how the deposit is divided and how refunds will be handled

Utilities and Shared Expenses*

List each utility and shared expense, how it is split, and who manages the account

Common area rules, guests, quiet hours, and cleaning

Common Area Rules*

Rules for shared spaces including kitchen, bathroom, and living areas

Guest Policy*

Rules for having guests over, especially overnight

Quiet Hours*

Hours during which roommates agree to keep noise to a minimum

Cleaning Responsibilities*

Describe the cleaning schedule, rotation, and individual responsibilities

Parking, pets, termination, and dispute resolution

Parking Arrangements

Describe parking assignments if applicable

Pets Allowed

Move-Out Notice Period*

How much advance written notice a roommate must give before moving out

Dispute Resolution*

How disagreements between roommates will be resolved

What Is a Roommate Agreement?

A Roommate Agreement is a written contract between people sharing a rental property that establishes house rules, financial responsibilities, and expectations for communal living. This agreement covers rent and utility splits, security deposit allocation, common area rules, guest policies, quiet hours, cleaning responsibilities, parking arrangements, pet policies, and move-out procedures. While not always legally required, a Roommate Agreement prevents misunderstandings, protects each roommate's interests, and provides a clear framework for resolving disputes.

When Do You Need It?

You need a Roommate Agreement whenever you are sharing a rental property with one or more people. Common situations include: moving in with a friend or acquaintance, finding a roommate through an online listing, sharing an apartment or house with classmates in college, adding a new roommate to an existing living arrangement, renting a room in someone's home, or any situation where multiple people share a living space and split expenses..

What's Included in This Template

Property address and lease term dates
Names of all roommates (up to three)
Monthly rent total and individual split details
Security deposit allocation
Utilities responsibility breakdown
Common area rules and expectations
Guest policy and overnight guest limits
Quiet hours schedule
Cleaning responsibilities
Parking assignments
Pet policy and details
Termination notice period and move-out procedures
Dispute resolution method

How to Fill It Out

Select Your State and Property — Choose the governing state and enter the full property address. Include the unit number if applicable. Enter the lease start and end dates that match your existing lease.

List All Roommates — Enter the full legal names of all roommates. This template supports two to three roommates. The third roommate field is optional if you only have two.

Set Financial Terms — Enter the total monthly rent, describe how it will be split among roommates, and specify the security deposit total and how it is divided. Be specific about who pays what.

Define Utilities and Shared Expenses — Describe how utilities and shared expenses will be handled — who pays which bills, how costs are split, and when payments are due.

Establish House Rules — Set the common area rules, guest policy, quiet hours, cleaning responsibilities, and parking assignments. Clear rules prevent most roommate conflicts.

Set Move-Out Terms — Choose how much advance notice is required before a roommate can move out. This protects everyone from being stuck with an unexpected rent increase.

Legal Requirements & Notes

This Roommate Agreement template addresses common shared-living arrangements under U.S. rental law. Key legal considerations:

Enforceability: Roommate agreements are generally enforceable as contracts between private parties. However, they cannot override the terms of the master lease with the landlord. If the master lease prohibits subletting or additional occupants, this agreement does not override that restriction.

Joint and Several Liability: In most states, if all roommates are co-signers on the master lease, each roommate is jointly and severally liable for the full rent amount. This means the landlord can pursue any one roommate for the entire rent if others fail to pay. This agreement allocates costs between roommates but does not change liability to the landlord.

Subletting vs. Co-Tenancy: If only one roommate is on the master lease and others pay that person, the arrangement may be considered a sublease. Many leases require landlord consent for subletting (see also our Sublease Agreement template). If all roommates are on the lease, they are co-tenants with equal rights.

Security Deposit Laws: State laws govern security deposit limits, required holding accounts, and return timelines. These laws apply between the landlord and tenants, not between roommates. This agreement establishes how roommates split the deposit among themselves, but the landlord's obligations are governed by state statute (e.g., California Civ. Code § 1950.5, New York GOL § 7-108).

Tenant Rights: Each roommate who is on the lease has full tenant rights under state and local law, including the right to habitability, protection from illegal eviction, and privacy rights. One roommate cannot "evict" another — only a landlord can initiate eviction proceedings through the courts.

Local Ordinances: Some cities have occupancy limits, noise ordinances, and parking regulations that may affect shared living arrangements. Check local laws in addition to state statutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a signed roommate agreement is a legally enforceable contract between the roommates. If a roommate violates the agreement — for example, by not paying their share of rent — the other roommates can pursue remedies including mediation or small claims court. However, the agreement only governs the relationship between the roommates. It cannot override the master lease or change any roommate's obligations to the landlord.

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