It’s every renter’s worst nightmare. Your roommate gives you the we-need-to-talk look, and you know that whatever they are about to say, you aren’t going to want to hear.
But you listen anyway. Listen to them tell you that they are moving out… now… before the lease is up. Of course, both parties want to try to find a solution that works for everyone, but with emotions running high and possibly thousands of dollars on the line, that may be easier said than done.
Here are a few solutions to try when your roommate wants out of the lease early.
- Find a New Roommate: Yes, it’s never easy replacing a good roommate, but finding someone to replace them could be your cheapest option. Try searching amongst your family, friends and acquaintances for anyone who may be searching for a new place to crash. Or, you could always turn to a roommate finding service or even the dreaded Craigslist.
- Buy Out of the Lease: If the thought of living with someone you don’t know gives you the heebie jeebies, check your lease for a buyout clause. Many leases contain such a clause that allows the tenant to leave the lease early when they pay a specified monetary severance.
- Roommate Pays Their Half: If you have an understanding roommate, you could suggest that they continue to pay their half of the rent until the end of the lease or at least until you can make alternative arrangements. Just be sure to get any agreements in writing to use as collateral later.
- Discuss it with Your Landlord: If you are one of the lucky tenants with a good landlord, you may want to discuss your current situation with them. Odds are that if you have been a good tenant, they may be willing to work with you to find a solution. For example, you may be able to assist in some maintenance work or show vacant units for a reduced rent - or maybe they would let you move into a smaller unit. It may not be the most glamorous option, but it may be the solution to help you avoid eviction.
- Pay the Entire Rent: If your roommate refuses to pay their portion or just can’t afford to, you may have to save up and fork out the money for the entire rent for a few months - if you can afford to that is.
Getting stuck with the entire rent bill is one situation that renters with roommates hope to never have to face, but it is one that happens often. Be sure to have an escape plan in case it happens to you.
