Many part-time residents and students escape the Arizona
summer heat for another home. Those who share a rental home or apartment may
opt to rent out a room to another summer visitor. It’s important to lay out
expectations and ground rules to have a successful stay.
Although it may not seem easy or fun to have some of these
tough conversations about living together, it’s always easier to talk about
your home at the start of a good situation, rather than wait for a problem.
Ask them to sign a
short-term lease. Get a simple lease and modify it to a month-to-month or
90-day lease so you both are protected. Outline what termination clauses will
be on the lease. Decide how many days notice you must give and put it in
writing.
Ask for a security
deposit. It may seem like a big request for a short amount of time but we
all know accidents take only a minute. Damage can be done at any time.
Read your lease to
see if you must notify your management company/owner about the new roommate.
Your lease may cover only you living in your unit; if you add another person,
it’s best to let your manager know.
Create a set of
roommate rules. Starting the conversation about expectations for household
duties and behaviors can save lots of headaches and hurt feelings in the end. Also
talk about issues like noise, parties and guests.
Discuss issues like
expenses, due dates for utilities and rent payments. If your lease and
utilities are in your name, you are responsible for payments. Set due dates for
expenses you share.
Sharing an apartment with a short term roommate can be fun
and help manage expenses, with simple precautions.