Joint and several liability
Page last updated: August 22, 2026 · How we source & update
A lease term making each co-tenant responsible for the full rent, not only their own share. In practice it means a landlord may pursue any one roommate for everything owed. It does not mean the debt is split by the number of roommates, and a private agreement between roommates does not change what the lease says.
Why does this matter to renters?
It means a landlord can pursue any one roommate for everything — a key risk in shared leases.
What does this look like in practice?
If a roommate stops paying, you could be billed for the whole rent.
What can I do if this comes up?
Before signing with roommates, put a written roommate agreement in place that says who pays what and what happens if someone leaves. If a roommate stops paying, keep paying your share on time with proof, tell the landlord in writing, and ask legal aid about your options, since the landlord may pursue any tenant on the lease for the full amount.