Subletting an apartment entails an agreement with another individual to replace you as the tenant. This is not allowed by all leases, so check with the landlord prior to initiating such an effort since subleasing an apartment illegally could result in eviction. If subleasing is permissible, it is important to make such an agreement with a responsible person you trust, as your name remains on the lease, not the new renter’s. Thus you are still responsible for all the terms of the original lease, including the rent.
Just like you signed an agreement when renting the apartment, it is important to put in writing terms of any agreement made when subletting. The new tenant must abide by all of the terms of the original lease, including length. Take a security deposit from the subtenant and make arrangements to receive payment from this person so that you can then pay the landlord.
Should you need to find a candidate to sublet your apartment, there are a variety of ways to search. A number of Web sites exist in which you can post your apartment, or advertising in a local newspaper could locate a prospect. However, it is a good idea to request references from anyone interested in taking your apartment to ensure they will abide by the terms of the lease.
About the author:
Kyle Thomas Haley of Durham North Carolina has been creating and administering Apartment Renting Sites for STANZEEKAY Inc. since 1999.