Submitted by lutheaa on Thu, 01/19/2012 - 02:16
Ok, my girlfriend and I relocated to the Boston area in April 2011. We signed a lease for a 1 BD/1 BA apartment. Both of our names are on the lease. She decides she wants to break up and is planning on moving out ASAP. We have 3 months left on our lease. Am I correct that she's still responsible for 1/2 the rent and utilities? If she doesn't pay, do I just pay everything and take her to court in April when the lease is complete? Thanks in advance!
Responsibility of all tenants for entire amount of rent
Yes, under the law in Massachusetts, the landlord can pursue all tenants for the entire amount of rent owned. Accordingly, as you suggest, you should keep your "record" clean by paying the rent and then attempt to collect the amount from your former roommate. Good luck.