About Sylvia Bergthold Expertise I can answer questions dealing with roommate situations including compatability, leases, placing roommate wanted ads, what you have to offer to a roommate, sharing of utilities and other services, interviewing techniques and questions, some legal aspects of housesharing, clearance information, etc.
Experience I have had roommates in my home for over 32 years and am the author of:
"SORRY, THE BOA HAS GOTTA GO!" A Roommate Survival Guide
Publications The Los Angeles Times, The HB-FV Independent, The Arizona Tribune, Lansing Michigan Rental Guide, Roommate Locator Newsletter, The Plain Dealer,, Las Vegas Sun, Apartment Lifestyles Magazine, Instyle Magazine, The Whiz.com, Cosmopolitan, Under 25, The Portsmouth Herald
Question hello there,ok after many weeks of childish behavoir and angry shouting matches,ive come to the end of my rope! i've signed a lease untill july 07,its a joint one in which we all signed,our next rent is due next month and then in apirl! however i do not want to continue leaving here,what do i have to do to get of my contract?will my flatmates have to pay my share of rent if i move out,my landlord mentioned that they would have to replace me within 30 days of the next rent is due,however my room is smaller the the rest!? im a uk student studying in sunderland,and am lucky to have a family home nearby!
Answer Hi David
Usually the outgoing roommate (that's you) helps your roommates find a replacement for you. That is what the landlord is talking about, otherwise your roommates will have to pick up your share of the rent. Not good!
So I suggest you quietly sit down with your "flatmates" and discuss this whole situation rationally and calmly. You will give the landlord a WRITTEN 30 day notice you are leaving. It might be a good idea to give a copy to your roommates also so they know you are serious.
As far as your room being smaller, I haven't a clue how that fits into the equation.....work it out with your landlord and flatmates.
