Roommates and co-tenants
On most shared leases, co-tenants are “jointly and severally” liable — each can be held responsible for the full rent. Put money and move-out plans in writing, and know how your lease treats one roommate leaving.
Educational — information, not legal advice, and not attorney-reviewed. Rules depend on your state, city, and lease; the app shows the verified rule for where you live.
What this means
When several people sign one lease, they're usually co-tenants, and most leases make them jointly and severally liable — meaning the landlord can pursue any one of them for the whole rent, not just their share. That makes clear agreements between roommates important.
If one roommate wants to leave, whether that ends their obligation depends on the lease and your state. A written roommate agreement covering rent, deposits, and move-out helps prevent disputes even though it's between you, not the landlord.
What to do
- Get every roommate on the same written understanding about rent and deposits.
- Understand that you may be liable for the full rent, not just your share.
- If someone moves out, get any change in writing with the landlord.
- Track who paid what, in case the deposit or rent is disputed later.
Your rights vary by state
The specific deadlines and limits are set where you live. Start with your state:
Common questions
Turn this into action.
Renter Shield shows your state's verified rule, drafts calm letters, tracks deadlines, and keeps your evidence private on your device — free to start.