roommate agreement template california

Residential Co-Tenancy Agreement

Instructions for Use

• Fill in all bracketed fields with the appropriate legal names, dates, and currency amounts before signing.
• Both (or all) roommates must sign and date the document in the presence of each other to ensure mutual understanding of the terms.
• Keep a signed copy in a secure location; this document should be treated as a binding contract that governs your living arrangement and financial obligations.

Parties and Definitions

This agreement is made on [Date] between [Full Legal Name of Roommate 1] ("Roommate 1") and [Full Legal Name of Roommate 2] ("Roommate 2"), collectively referred to as "the Parties," regarding the premises located at [Full Property Address, including Unit Number] ("the Premises").

Operative Clauses

1. Term: This agreement shall commence on [Start Date] and continue until [End Date] or until the lease agreement with the landlord is terminated, whichever occurs first.

2. Rent Obligations: The total monthly rent for the Premises is $[Amount]. The Parties agree to pay their respective shares as follows:

   • [Full Legal Name of Roommate 1] shall pay $[Amount] per month.
   • [Full Legal Name of Roommate 2] shall pay $[Amount] per month. Payments shall be made to the landlord by the [Day] of each month.

3. Security Deposit: The Parties have contributed a total security deposit of $[Amount].

   • [Full Legal Name of Roommate 1] contributed $[Amount].
   • [Full Legal Name of Roommate 2] contributed $[Amount]. Upon move-out, any portion of the deposit returned by the landlord shall be divided in proportion to these contributions.

4. Utilities and Expenses: The Parties agree to split the following costs equally [ ] or as specified:

   • Electricity: [ ] 50/50 [ ] Other: [__________]
   • Water/Trash/Sewer: [ ] 50/50 [ ] Other: [__________]
   • Internet/Cable: [ ] 50/50 [ ] Other: [__________]
   • Cleaning Supplies/Household Goods: [ ] 50/50 [ ] Other: [__________]

5. House Rules:

   • Quiet Hours: [Start Time] to [End Time].
   • Guests: Overnight guests shall not stay longer than [Number] consecutive nights without prior consent.
   • Chores: The Parties agree to a rotating cleaning schedule as follows: [Describe schedule or attach addendum].
   • Smoking/Vaping: [ ] Prohibited inside [ ] Permitted in designated areas only.

6. Dispute Resolution: In the event of a disagreement, the Parties agree to attempt mediation in good faith before pursuing legal action.

7. Termination/Replacement: If a roommate wishes to vacate the Premises before the lease ends, they must provide [Number] days' written notice and remain liable for their share of rent until a replacement is approved by the landlord and the remaining roommate.

Signature and Acknowledgment

Roommate 1 Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Full Legal Name of Roommate 1] Date: [Date]

Roommate 2 Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Full Legal Name of Roommate 2] Date: [Date]

Disclaimer: This document is a general framework and does not constitute formal legal advice. Laws regarding tenancies vary by municipality; consult with qualified counsel to ensure compliance with local ordinances and the specific terms of your master lease.