June 27, 2026 · 4 min read

Roommate Moving Out? What You Need to Know

A roommate moving out creates a cascade of questions: Who pays the rest of the rent? What happens to the security deposit? Who finds the replacement? Here's your checklist.

1. Check Your Lease First

If you're on a joint lease, the departing roommate is still legally responsible unless the landlord agrees to release them. Most landlords require all tenants to sign off on any changes. Read your lease carefully.

2. Give Proper Notice

Most leases require 30 days written notice. Even if your lease doesn't specify, giving 30 days is the standard. A written notice protects everyone.

3. Figure Out the Security Deposit

Does the departing roommate get their share back now, or when the lease ends? If there's damage, who pays? A roommate agreement should spell this out. If you don't have one, negotiate and put it in writing now.

4. Finding a Replacement

The departing roommate should help find a replacement. Have the new person fill out an application with the landlord. And most importantly — create a new roommate agreement with the new person. Different people, different rules.

5. Update Everything

Utilities, internet, renter's insurance — switch everything to the remaining tenants. The departing roommate should be removed from all accounts to avoid future liability.