What happens if one roommate moves out before the lease ends?

Quick answer

The exact lease controls. Two roommates may both remain responsible for the lease even if one moves out or stops paying. Before signing, ask whether the property allows a qualified replacement roommate or an internal transfer that could move the remaining resident into a one-bedroom or studio. Fees, notice, screening, and availability vary by community. Roommates can also make a private agreement about how they intend to handle an early departure, but that agreement does not replace the apartment lease. Grant’s advice is to understand the exit options before a problem occurs.

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