Parents Corner: Four Questions to Ask Before Subletting

Subletting an apartment, whether due to study abroad or summer work, is a great way for your student to get all the perks of a long-term lease without, well, the lease. It’s a process, though, and shouldn’t be entered into lightly. Even if the person subleasing the apartment is a friend that is eager to hand over the keys to her student apartment, you should plan to touch base with the property management company yourself before making anything official.

Here are some important questions to ask:

Do we have your permission?

First and foremost, you need to either call the property management group or read the lease to find out if the apartment can be legally sublet. Some property groups allow it and some don’t. It is illegal to sublet if it is not allowed, which could lead to fines and eviction (a bad way to enter the renting world!). If the lease simply doesn’t mention subletting at all, you can send a return receipt certified letter asking for permission at least 30 days before your student is scheduled to move in.

Are the specific terms acceptable to them?

Discuss with the property management company, or put in your letter, the amount of time you plan to sublet, information about your child as a prospective tenant, and any other significant details. Your child’s new roommates will need to sign to indicate consent for a tenant as well.

What are the apartment’s rules/policies?

This can get overlooked by students eager to get move-in over and done with. Remember that your student’s new roommates got the run down on apartment rules many months prior, and most likely have learned which ones are “OK to bend.” Be sure that your child is informed about what actual apartment policy is regarding guests, alcohol, noise, parking, etc, etc, before they move in.

What happens if things go south?

It’s important to know what will happen if for some reason rent goes missing one month. Ask about the names on the lease, whether or not the former tenant will be removed, and who will be held accountable for missing payments. The last thing you want is an unexpected battle with the former tenant’s parents because your check bounced and now they’re facing fines.

What else is important to check and double-check? Tell us in the comment section!