A common problem students have come to me with is that they have run into personal and financial trouble with their roommate.  Roommates who sign one lease together are “jointly and severally liable” under that agreement.

This means that any or all roommates can be held responsible when a tenant violates the lease. Very little tenant-landlord law deals with roommates, so choose them carefully and work with them if problems come up.

Do not assume that a best friend will make a good roommate. To prevent conflicts, you should sign a detailed roommate agreement that feels fair to everyone. All roommates should sign and date the agreement and get a copy.

Some items to include are:

• How rent and shared bills will be paid
• Assignment of household duties
• Rules about parties and guests
• Quiet hours and privacy
• Messages and mail
• Smoking
• Pets