To sublet is to rent your apartment to someone during your own lease term. If you choose to sublease your apartment, you remain on the original lease and continue to be responsible for all lease provisions. You are still responsible for the actions of the sub-lessee, so make sure everyone signs a sublease agreement. The sublease agreement does not replace the original lease, however it will provide details of what the sublessor and sublessee are agreeing to during the term.
Some leases prohibit subletting. Check with your landlord first about their requirements or procedures and get your landlord’s permission in writing before subletting!
Subletting FAQs
When do students usually sublet?
Most often, students seek to sublet when they move away for co-op, study abroad, or take a summer vacation. At Northeastern, many global opportunities make subletting a common practice. Additionally, if you are seeking a off-campus housing for only one semester, subletting may be a good option.
How do I know if subletting is allowed at my apartment?
Your lease will outline the terms of subletting. A standard lease requires the owner’s permission in advance. Check your addendum for specific rules or required fees.
What is the best way to locate a room to sublet?
The Northeastern Housing Database allows student to post sublets for free. You can also find open rooms across universities near Northeastern by using the roommate finder on the Database to see who may have an open room. We provide more details on this process below.
Will subletting remove me from the lease and my responsibilities?
No, as the original tenant listed on the lease contract, you are still jointly and severally liable for the rent and for maintaining the unit. The only way to relieve this responsibility is to terminate the lease or request a formal change of tenants listed on the contract. These processes and costs vary greatly by landlord or property management company.
How can I protect myself, and my security deposit, when subletting?
We always recommend creating a roommate agreement between yourself, and the subleasee that will move into your place. This allows you to communicate rent payments, utilities, keys, shared furniture, etc. View our subletting guide for more details.
steps to subletting
How do I post my sublet?
- Post your sublet on the NU Housing Database as listing. Now NU students can find your room!
- On the Database, create a roommate profile stating you have an open room in our place. Roommate profiles are visible by students at nearby colleges, in addition to Northeastern students.
- Be proactive! Search roommate profiles by those that “need a room” to see students that are in need of housing. Message students directly that you think would be a good fit.
How do I find a room to sublet?
- Use the NU Housing Database to find a sublet (under the Housing tab, you can advance filter using the ‘Sublet’ option).
- Create a roommate profile so students know you are seeking a room. Roommate profiles are visible by students at nearby colleges, in addition to Northeastern students.
- Search for students that “have a room” open in the roommates section, and message them directly to learn more.