Florida Roommate Agreement
Shared Housing Contract
This Roommate Agreement establishes the terms between roommates sharing a rental property. It covers rent division, utility payments, house rules, and responsibilities. This is a contract between roommates only — it does not replace the lease with the landlord. All roommates on the lease remain jointly liable to the landlord.
🏠 Property Information
📄 Lease Information
👥 Roommate Information
👤 Roommate #1
👤 Roommate #2
Joint Liability: If all roommates are on the lease, each is jointly and severally liable for the full rent. If one roommate doesn’t pay, the others must cover it or face eviction together.
💰 Rent & Deposit Split
| Roommate | Monthly Rent Share | Security Deposit Share |
|---|---|---|
| Roommate 1 | ||
| Roommate 2 |
Monthly Rent Total
💡 Utilities
| Utility | Account Holder | Split Method |
|---|---|---|
| ⚡ Electric | ||
| 💧 Water/Sewer | ||
| 🔥 Gas | ||
| 📶 Internet/Cable | ||
| 🗑️ Trash |
🛋️ Common Areas & Shared Items
🧹 Household Chores
🚪 Guests & Overnight Visitors
🔇 Quiet Hours & Noise
🚭 Smoking, Alcohol & Substances
🐾 Pets
⚖️ Conflict Resolution
📤 Move-Out & Early Termination
📝 Additional Terms
✍️ Signatures
By signing below, all roommates agree to the terms of this Roommate Agreement. This agreement is binding and may be enforced in court.
Roommate #1
Roommate #2
Florida Roommate Agreement Guide
⚠️ Legal Notice: This form is for informational purposes only. Consult a Florida attorney for specific legal guidance.
What is a Roommate Agreement?
A Roommate Agreement is a contract between people sharing a rental property. It establishes rules for living together, divides financial responsibilities, and provides a framework for resolving disputes. While not required by law, having a written agreement can prevent misunderstandings and protect all parties.
Roommate Agreement vs. Lease
| Document | Parties | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Lease Agreement | Landlord ↔ Tenant(s) | Establishes tenancy, rent, rules with property owner |
| Roommate Agreement | Roommate ↔ Roommate | Divides responsibilities among those sharing the space |
Why You Need a Roommate Agreement
- Clear Expectations: Everyone knows their responsibilities
- Financial Protection: Documents who pays what and when
- Dispute Prevention: Addresses common issues before they arise
- Legal Recourse: Provides basis for legal action if needed
- Move-Out Clarity: Establishes process for departing roommates
Joint and Several Liability
In Florida, if multiple people sign a lease, they are typically jointly and severally liable. This means:
- Each person is responsible for the FULL rent amount
- If one roommate doesn’t pay, others must cover it
- Landlord can pursue any or all tenants for unpaid rent
- Eviction affects ALL tenants on the lease
- Roommate agreement can establish reimbursement between roommates
What to Include in a Roommate Agreement
Essential Terms
- Names and contact information of all roommates
- Property address and bedroom assignments
- Lease term dates
- Rent amount and how it’s divided
- Security deposit split
- Utility responsibilities and payment
House Rules
- Quiet hours
- Guest policies
- Cleaning responsibilities
- Smoking/vaping rules
- Pet policies
- Parking assignments
Move-Out Terms
- Required notice period
- Finding replacement roommates
- Security deposit return
- Early termination consequences
Common Roommate Disputes
| Issue | Prevention Strategy |
|---|---|
| Unpaid rent/utilities | Clear payment deadlines with consequences |
| Cleanliness | Chore schedule or rotation system |
| Noise complaints | Defined quiet hours |
| Too many guests | Guest limits and notice requirements |
| Unauthorized pets | Written pet policy |
| Thermostat wars | Agreed temperature range |
| Shared items | Document ownership of items |
If a Roommate Doesn’t Pay
Options when a roommate fails to pay their share:
- Communicate directly and document in writing
- Send formal written demand for payment
- Cover their share to avoid eviction (then seek reimbursement)
- File in small claims court (up to $8,000 in Florida)
- Consider mediation before court
Adding or Removing Roommates
If roommates change during the lease:
- Check lease for subletting/assignment provisions
- Get landlord approval (usually required)
- New roommate should sign the lease if possible
- Update the roommate agreement
- Handle security deposit transfer between roommates
Florida Small Claims Court
For roommate disputes involving money:
- Maximum claim: $8,000
- Filing fee: Approximately $55-$300 depending on amount
- No attorney required
- Bring: Roommate agreement, payment records, communication records
Resources
- Florida Courts Self-Help: Small Claims Information
- Florida Bar: Find a Florida Attorney
- Legal Aid: FloridaLawHelp.org
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
This Roommate Agreement is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This agreement is between roommates only and does not modify or replace any lease agreement with the landlord. All parties on a lease remain jointly and severally liable to the landlord regardless of this agreement. Disputes between roommates may require legal action to resolve. Florida law governs the enforceability of contracts. Consult a qualified Florida attorney for specific guidance regarding your situation. Form updated .
