Can I remove an occupant from my lease?

You cannot force a roommate out of your apartment or remove their name from the lease simply because you want them to leave. You have to consult with your landlord or property manager and be sure that everything is done the right way.

Can a tenant change their mind before signing a lease?

While it is frustrating, a tenant is allowed to change their mind at any time before signing a lease. Until the contract is signed, there is nothing binding them to rent the property, and they cannot be forced to do so.

When does the owner of a property sign the lease?

The owner/manager receives the signed rental contract and also signs the contract. At this time, when both parties have signed the lease, the contract is considered binding to terms outlined in the agreement. Both parties get a copy of the signed lease agreement.

Is it legal to evict someone who has not signed a lease?

If you’ve had a friend stay over for a few nights, there’s no need to evict the person — he’s not legally a tenant. In California and most other states, however, if someone has lived in your apartment for 30 days or more, he’s considered a tenant even if he never signed a lease.

What happens if a tenant backs out of a lease?

If a tenant backs out and does not pay rent after signing a lease agreement, they are still responsible for any unpaid rent. The landlord can file a suit to get that rent back. If they win the suit, they may then pass the debt to a collections agency.

Can you get out of an apartment lease early?

No Clause – If there is no clause describing how to get out of your lease early, this could be very good or very bad. Since you signed a lease agreement with no escape clause, you may have to pay for your apartment rental for the entire lease, at least on paper.

What happens if your name is still on an apartment lease?

If your name remains on the lease, and your ex doesn’t pay the rent or damages the apartment, you could be held responsible. The landlord could choose to evict both of you when notified that one of you is moving out, especially if both incomes and credit reports were used to qualify you for the apartment. You can search for a replacement roommate.

Can a relationship end after you sign an apartment lease?

If your relationship has ended and both of you signed the apartment lease, you may need to negotiate which one of you will keep living in the residence — and keep paying the rent — while the other one moves.