California · Guides

Roommates, lodgers and subtenants: identify the agreement

Work out who contracted with whom, who holds the deposit and which notice or deposit process applies.

Short answer

Roommates, subtenants and occupants not named on the lease can have different rights and risks. Identify the contracting parties and local rules before acting.

What to do next

  1. List every occupant and identify whose name appears on each agreement.
  2. Record who received rent and deposit payments.
  3. Check permission, notice and deposit rules for the actual arrangement.

Evidence to collect

0 / 4

Scope and limits

This is a self-service information page for California renters. It does not review your documents, decide a dispute or replace qualified help for urgent, high-value or complex matters.

Official sources

These official pages are the starting point for this California summary. City rules, property type and dates can change the route.

California Department of Justice

Landlord-tenant issues

Statewide renter protections and official help routes.

Common questions

Common questions

Why does the rental arrangement matter in shared housing?

Roommates, subtenants and occupants not named on the lease can have different rights and risks. Identify the contracting parties and local rules before acting.

Which records should I collect for “Roommates, lodgers and subtenants: identify the agreement”?

Start with: Lease or tenancy agreement and amendments, Proof of deposit, rent and other payments, Move-in inventory or condition report, Emails, messages and letters with the landlord or agent. Do not share names, addresses or account details publicly.

Private in your browser

Organize my deposit deductions

Free browser-only organizer. No document upload and no payment.

Organize my deposit deductions