Subletting

Subletting is when a renter who already has a lease agreement rents out their home, or a portion of it, to another person called a subletter or subtenant.

This arrangement typically comes up when the original renter, sometimes called the primary tenant, needs to leave temporarily but does not want to break their lease. The primary tenant usually stays legally responsible for the rent and any damages, even when someone else is living in the unit. In most cases, the landlord must give written permission before a sublet is allowed, and skipping that step can put the original tenant at risk of eviction.

For example, a renter paying $1,500 per month gets a four-month job assignment in another city. Rather than paying rent on an empty apartment, they find a subtenant to cover the $1,500 each month. If the landlord approves the arrangement in writing, the original renter can avoid both breaking the lease and paying double housing costs.

Rules around subletting vary widely. Some cities, particularly those with rent stabilization laws, place strict limits on subletting, while other areas leave it mostly up to the lease contract. According to state and local law, some leases ban subletting entirely. If your lease is unclear or you are facing a dispute, consult a local tenant rights organization or attorney.

Understanding subletting matters because doing it without permission can result in eviction, financial penalties, or damage to your rental history, all of which can make it harder to rent a home in the future.