Sublease

A sublease is when you rent out your apartment to someone else while your name stays on the original lease — meaning you’re still on the hook if anything goes wrong. That’s the part most people don’t think about until it’s too late.

When Subleasing Comes Up

Job relocations, study abroad, moving in with a partner, or just needing to leave before your lease ends. If you’ve got 6 months left on a $1,600/month lease, that’s $9,600 in rent you owe regardless of where you live. Finding a subtenant can cover those payments instead of eating the cost or paying a lease-break fee.

Is It Even Allowed?

Check your lease first. Many leases prohibit subletting entirely. Others allow it with landlord approval, which they can’t unreasonably withhold in some states. Subletting without permission when your lease bans it is grounds for eviction — and you’ll still owe the remaining rent.

Some cities have tenant-friendly subletting laws. New York, for example, requires landlords to allow subletting in buildings with four or more units, though they can charge a small processing fee. Your local tenant rights organization can tell you what applies in your area.

The Risks You’re Taking

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: you’re the landlord’s tenant, and your subtenant is your responsibility. If they trash the place, you pay. If they skip rent, you pay. If they violate the lease terms, you face eviction. Your original lease doesn’t care about any side deal you made.

Screen your subtenant like a landlord would. Check references, verify income (3x rent minimum), and run a credit check. Put the sublease in writing with clear terms about rent amount, duration, rules, and what happens if they violate the agreement. The tenant guide covers your rights and obligations in more detail, and the rent calculator can help you figure out what to charge.