Subletting an Apartment
By: Kyle Thomas Haley

Subletting an apartment entails an agreement with another individual to replace
you as the tenant. This is not allowed by all leases, so check with the landlord
prior to initiating such an effort since subleasing an apartment illegally could
result in eviction. Laws vary from state to state regarding apartments and renting.
It is important that you get good legal counseling in matters such as this. If subleasing
is permissible, it is important to make such an agreement with a responsible person
you trust, as your name remains on the lease, not the new renter’s. Thus you are still
responsible for all the terms of the original lease, including the rent.

Just like you signed an agreement when renting the apartment, it is important to
put in writing terms of any agreement made when subletting. The new tenant must
abide by all of the terms of the original lease, including length. Take a security
deposit from the subtenant and make arrangements to receive payment from this person
so that you can then pay the landlord.

Should you need to find a candidate to sublet your apartment, there are a variety
of ways to search. A number of Web sites exist in which you can post your apartment,
or advertising in a local newspaper could locate a prospect. However, it is a good
idea to request references from anyone interested in taking your apartment to ensure
they will abide by the terms of the lease. As mentioned above, however, laws vary
from state to state and we are not trying to offer you legal advice here. It is always
good sense to get legal representation, if possible, to find out just what your options are.

About the author:

Kyle Thomas Haley of Durham North Carolina has been creating and administering Apartment Renting Sites for STANZEEKAY Inc. since 1999.

Copyright © 2006 STANZEEKAY Inc.

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Updated 6/12/2005