Room Rental Agreement
A room rental agreement is a written contract between a property owner or primary tenant and an individual who will rent a single room within a residential property. This legally binding document establishes the terms and conditions for renting a room in a house or apartment where common areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, and living room are shared with others.
By State
Key Components of a Room Rental Agreement
-
Primary Landlord or Tenant: Person responsible for the property or lease.
-
Room Renter (Subtenant): The person renting the room.
-
Property Address: Full location of the shared property.
-
Room Description: The specific room being rented (e.g., upstairs bedroom).
-
Shared Areas: Details about access to kitchen, bathroom, living room, laundry, etc.
-
Monthly Rent: Payment amount, due date, and how it should be paid.
-
Security Deposit: If applicable, to cover damage or unpaid rent.
-
Utilities and Expenses: Who pays for water, electricity, internet, etc.
-
House Rules: Quiet hours, guest policy, smoking, pets, and chores.
-
Lease Term: Start date, end date (if any), or month-to-month status.
-
Termination Notice: Notice requirements for early move-out.
Common Uses of a Room Rental Agreement
-
Renting a room in a house or apartment
-
College or university housing arrangements
-
Subletting a room under an existing lease
-
Co-living spaces with shared common areas
-
Temporary housing solutions
-
Roommate situations with individual rent agreements
How to Create a Room Rental Agreement
Step 1: List Landlord and Roommate Information. Include full names and contact details of both parties.
Step 2: Describe the Room and Shared Property. Mention the exact room rented and the amenities included.
Step 3: Define the Lease Term. Specify whether it’s a fixed-term or month-to-month agreement.
Step 4: Set the Rent Amount. Include the monthly cost, payment method, and due date.
Step 5: Clarify Utilities and Expenses. Break down who pays for what (gas, internet, garbage, etc.).
Step 6: Add Rules for Shared Areas. Note expectations for cleanliness, usage, and chores.
Step 7: Include Guest and Quiet Hours Policies. Limit overnight guests, party rules, and quiet times.
Step 8: Define Entry and Access Rights. State when the primary tenant or landlord can enter the room.
Step 9: Note Security Deposit Info. Include refund conditions and timeline after move-out.
Step 10: Address Conflict Resolution. Explain how disputes will be handled (e.g., mediation, roommate meetings).
How to Finalize and Send a Room Rental Agreement
- Review terms with both parties.
- Save as a PDF or send through an e-signature platform.
- Ensure both parties sign and keep a copy.
- Attach any property rules, floor plans, or addendums if needed.
