Sublet Your Room
Subletting a Room in Boston

Lease and Other Legal Considerations when Subletting

The first thing you need to do is carefully read your lease. Every lease should contain rules concerning subletting a room. If the lease does not state anything about subletting a room or does not prohibit it directly, then you are most likely able to sublet. Double check this by emailing or calling your property manager/landlord. Many leases do not allow subletting a room without the approval of the property manager/landlord. Before you proceed, make sure you understand the subletting terms in your lease; if you do not, remember that Boston Pads is here to help.

The next step is to write an email to your property manager/landlord asking permission to sublet. Your landlord should respond in a timely manner and tell you what they need in order to complete the subletting process. Many landlords require tenant approval before completing a subletting agreement. Once your sublet is approved by the landlord or property manager a subletting agreement is drafted by Boston Pads and can be finished via DocuSign or an e-signature program.

The knowledgeable people at Boston Pads can help you maneuver through any obstacles that might arise. The legal ins and outs of real estate might seem complicated to the average person but at Boston Pads, it is second nature.

Personal Arrangements Before Subletting a Room

While you are looking for a subtenant, it would be a good idea to get your personal life organized. You might need to move as quickly as possible and your subtenant might need to move in as quickly as possible. Do not be left standing in the middle of a mess; that will only make the move much more difficult than it has to be.

Everything that you do not need for personal maintenance should be packed. Make sure you have all the boxes and packing materials that you need. Notify the post office of your new address. Make sure you notify significant people – teachers, employers, family, etc. of your new address. If you are taking any maintenance medications, notify the pharmacy. You may need to transfer those prescriptions depending on how far you are moving. If you need transportation to your next home, make sure that is secured in advance. As always, know that the professionals at Boston Pads are there if you need guidance.

Financial Considerations When Subletting a Room

Boston Pads will guide you through the process of subletting a room to make sure your potential subtenant is fiscally responsible. During uncertain times, the last problem you need is being financially insecure. If the lease is in your name, you will have to pay rent even if you are living elsewhere. You want to make sure you can meet all of the terms of your lease.

When you are deciding on a rent for your subtenant, do not forget to add utilities. Utilities might vary from month to month so you need an estimate that will cover your costs. One way to get a good estimate is to take an average of utility costs for your three most expensive months.

A security deposit is a prudent idea also. The lease is still in your name and you want to be reimbursed if your subtenant damages property. This may not be necessary if your landlord is willing transfer the lease to the new tenant.