Living with a roommate near Arizona State University can be a great way to save money and enjoy a social, supportive environment—especially in a spacious off-campus apartment. But what happens when your roommate suddenly stops paying their share of the rent? Whether you’re in a shared lease or splitting costs informally, the financial and legal consequences can be serious. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself in this challenging situation.
Can You Be Evicted Too?
In most cases, yes. If you and your roommate are on a joint lease, you’re both legally responsible for the full rent amount—regardless of who pays what. That means if your roommate misses a payment or refuses to pay altogether, you could still be held liable for the unpaid balance. If the full rent isn’t paid on time, your landlord may initiate eviction proceedings against both tenants.
This is why it’s crucial to understand the terms of your lease before you move in. Students living in asu housing for graduate students or other shared units often sign a joint lease with one total rent amount divided between roommates. If one person defaults, the landlord won’t care who’s at fault—they’ll come after everyone listed on the lease.
So what should you do if your roommate isn’t paying their share? First, try to have a direct conversation. Sometimes it’s a misunderstanding or a temporary issue that can be resolved quickly. If that doesn’t work, be prepared to either cover their portion to avoid eviction or explore early termination options outlined in your lease.
Notify Your Landlord Early
If rent is going to be late—or short—don’t wait for your landlord to chase you down. Let them know about the situation as soon as possible. Some landlords may be willing to work with you to come up with a short-term solution, especially if you’ve previously been a reliable tenant.
Tenants living in cheap apartments near ASU Tempe often choose these properties for their flexibility and student-friendly policies. However, communication is still key. Document your efforts to resolve the issue with your roommate and keep copies of all communications with the landlord, just in case the situation escalates.
If you’re living in one of the many 2 bed 2 bath apartments Tempe offers, having separate leases or individual liability clauses can protect you in these scenarios. In those setups, each tenant is only responsible for their own rent. If your lease includes this language, you’re less likely to face consequences for your roommate’s missed payments.
Final Thoughts
Roommate issues can be stressful—especially when money is involved. Understanding your lease terms and knowing your responsibilities is the best way to protect yourself. If your roommate stops paying rent, act quickly: communicate clearly, document everything, and explore your options with your landlord. The sooner you address the problem, the easier it will be to avoid long-term consequences.
Also Read: How Roommates Can Help You Save for Major Financial Goals
