How to Sublet an Apartment

You’ve finally settled into apartment living. But now you’re leaving town — and not just for a long weekend. Maybe you landed a summer internship, or you’re studying abroad. If you won’t be living in your apartment for over a month, you might consider subletting — renting out the apartment you rent.

Subletting your apartment could help you save money. It also lets you keep your apartment for when you return. However, it involves planning, coordination, and some risk. Keep reading to learn the steps of subletting your apartment and tips for finding the right tenant.

Sometimes, subletting means adding someone new to the lease. In this case, your name is still on the lease for the remainder of its term. If your subtenant doesn’t pay rent, you need to cover the cost. If they cause damage or break the rules, you may be subject to fees.

However, subletting could also refer to “reletting.” When you relet an apartment, your landlord ends your lease and immediately starts one with the new tenant.

“The second option is always preferable for a tenant looking to leave a lease early, as it absolves the former tenant of any responsibility for the actions of the new tenant,” real estate broker Peter LoPresti Paniagua said.

It’s important to find out how your local laws define real estate terms. LoPresti Paniagua advises students to consult with their landlord or a trusted realtor to understand their options.

If you’re thinking about subletting your apartment, start communicating with your roommates and landlord sooner rather than later. Find the steps for subletting your apartment below. Remember, everyone’s situation is different. Make sure you know your local laws and the details of your lease.

Some states have laws about subletting. These laws dictate how much notice you need to give the property owner and if you need their written permission.

Some state tenant laws say you’re allowed to sublet if your lease allows it. So, re-read your lease. Find out:

Additionally, state laws may allow you to break your lease without fees if you experience uninhabitable conditions, such as serious plumbing or electricity problems, safety threats, or invasions of privacy.

If you don’t plan on returning to your apartment, and your landlord agrees to it, a relet might be your best option.

Let’s say you and your landlord cannot come to a relet agreement. In that case, you could sublet your apartment or break your lease. Breaking your lease comes with consequences.

“At a minimum, a tenant breaking a lease should expect to forfeit any security deposit the landlord holds,” LoPresti Paniagua said. “Where I practice … the landlord is legally allowed to sue for any remaining months on the lease that the tenant does not pay for.”

However, LoPresti Paniagua said that disagreements rarely escalate to that level if you practice clear, earnest communication with your landlord.

“If you form a plan together with your landlord, you will maximize your chances of having a smooth transition process,” LoPresti Paniagua said.

LoPresti Paniagua said to remember your landlord’s goals, too. They’re trying to minimize the time they spend on the process, decrease risk by finding a responsible tenant, and fill their rental unit quickly.

Approach your landlord with details about when you need to move and how you plan to find a new tenant.

You can find someone to sublet your apartment by posting on major websites like Sublet.com. You can also start local. Search for classmates who are looking for a short-term rental. Start by asking your friends and roommates if they know anyone who can fill your spot.

Some schools have online marketplaces (like Craigslist for your school), where students can advertise used books or furniture for sale along with apartments and sublets for rent. You may find online marketplaces local to your city or neighborhood on Facebook. It’s free to post your listing on these sites.

Once you have someone interested in subletting your apartment, it’s time to confirm their interest and the terms of the sublet agreement. You might show them around the apartment or introduce them to your roommates.

Come to a verbal agreement on how much rent the subtenant will owe and whom they pay — you or the land manager. You should also discuss how and how much you expect the subtenant to pay for utilities.

Get your agreement in writing. This is crucial, even if you’re subletting to a friend. A written, signed agreement helps protect you if your subtenant fails to follow the lease terms.

You can find templated sublet agreements for your state online. These will include the basics, like the rent, due date, and commitment length.

Also include:

When you’re seeking a subtenant, think like a landlord.

LoPresti Paniagua says that landlords look for these qualities in potential tenants:

“I recommend vetting them with an online criminal background check as well as a credit check. It should cost between $35 and $55,” LoPresti Paniagua said. “Zillow, as well as dozens of other websites, offer this service.”

To verify someone’s income, ask to see their recent pay stubs. Some college students may have a parent co-sign their lease. If this is the case for your potential tenant, ask for their parent’s pay stubs.

Finally, make some calls. Call the phone number on the tenant’s pay stub to ensure they’re employed. Ask for phone numbers from former landlords and roommates to confirm that your subtenant has a history of making rent and respecting others’ property.

Remember, communicate, communicate, communicate. Just as you have with your landlord, you want clear and open lines of communication with your subtenant. Tell them your expectations for communication and how to get in touch with you. That way, you can hand over your keys with confidence.