How to Sublet an Apartment
Subletting your apartment is a great way to save money while you temporarily live somewhere else or travel around the world. After confirming that the state law and your landlord permit subletting, you’ll have to advertise your apartment and draw up a detailed contract between you and the subtenant.
- Find out laws regarding subletting in your state. Some states do not allow landlords to prohibit subletting. Others let landlords decide whether they want to permit it. Know your rights as the main tenant before looking over your lease and speaking with your landlord.
- Confirm that your lease allows subletting. Many leases do not accept subtenants. Even if subletting is permitted by your lease, let your landlord know that you plan to rent your apartment out while you are away. Communicating with your landlord will help you maintain an amicable relationship in the future, and avoid problems while you are gone.
- Advertise your apartment for subletting. Ask your friends if they, or anyone they know, would like to sublet your apartment. Put ads online and in your local newspapers. If you are looking for a tenant with specific qualities or job requirements, mention them in your advertisement. Describe the property thoroughly and specify when the space will become available as well as the date the tenant will have to vacate it.
- Set aside some time to show prospective subtenants your apartment. Be very clear about the terms of the agreement before you meet them to avoid wasting your time.
- Create a lease and go over the terms in detail before you and your subtenant sign it. The lease should all charges including a security deposit and all rent fees. Write down specific move-in and move-out dates. Discuss how the subtenant plans to make all payments. Remember that you are still responsible for the apartment even though someone else will be staying there for the time being. Only sublet to responsible tenants who can show proof of sufficient income before signing the lease.