Free Room Rental Agreement Template

A room rental agreement is a simple contract used when someone rents a room in a home or apartment where others already live. It’s often used by landlords who live on-site or tenants who are subletting with permission.

This agreement does not rent out an entire unit but focuses on one room and the shared use of common areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. It outlines how the arrangement works, including how much rent is owed, the rules, and how utilities or chores are handled.

You might use a room rental agreement when:

• You’re offering a spare room in your house
• You’re a tenant subletting part of your apartment
• You’re renting to someone short term but still sharing space

Putting the terms in writing helps prevent misunderstandings and gives both sides clear expectations from the start.

A written agreement gives both sides something to rely on and helps keep things fair. Even if the rental feels informal, having the key terms in writing can prevent confusion later on.

• Names of the parties: List both the landlord (or primary tenant) and the room renter with full contact info.
• Property and room details: Include the full address and a short description of the room being rented.
• Rent and payment terms: List how much rent is due, how often it’s paid (e.g., monthly), and when it’s due each period.
• Security deposit: Mention how much is due, where it’s held, and the conditions for refund.
• Utilities and bills: Explain how utility costs are shared or assigned, including internet, water, and electricity.
• Household rules: Set expectations around chores, noise levels, pets, alcohol or smoking, and overnight guests.
• Rental duration: Clarify whether the rental is fixed-term or month-to-month, and how much notice is needed to end it.
• Furnishings: If the room includes furniture, list it to avoid disputes later.
• Signatures: Both parties should sign and date the agreement to make it official.

Depending on your state and property, you may be legally required to include certain disclosures in your room rental agreement. Missing a required disclosure can affect the enforceability of your agreement or expose you to liability.

Common disclosures to be aware of include:

• Lead-based paint: Federal law requires landlords to disclose known lead-based paint hazards in properties built before 1978.
• Mold: Some states require landlords to disclose known mold issues in the rental property.
• Bed bugs: Certain states and cities require disclosure of any recent bed bug infestations.
• Radon: In areas where radon is a concern, landlords may need to disclose known radon levels.
• Tenant rights: Some states require landlords to provide tenants with a written summary of their legal rights.

You don’t need a legal background to put together a solid agreement. Start with the basics, keep things clear, and make sure both parties know what to expect.

1. Start with the names and property info: List who’s involved and where the rental is happening. Include full names, contact details, and a short description of the room being rented.
2. Lay out the rent terms: Note how much the tenant will pay, when it’s due, and how you’d like to be paid. If there’s a security deposit, explain the amount and how it will be handled at move-out.
3. Include rules and responsibilities: Decide what matters most to your household—chores, guest policies, quiet hours, and smoking rules—and write them into the agreement. Be specific to avoid confusion.
4. Mention any shared costs: Include how electricity, water, and internet bills will be split. You can assign a flat monthly amount or ask the renter to take over specific accounts.
5. Review legal disclosures: Some states require disclosures like lead paint notices. Document Genius includes state-specific clauses so you don’t miss anything.
6. Sign and distribute the agreement: Both parties should sign and keep a copy. You can print it or send it digitally, especially if you’re using e-signatures.

Document Genius simplifies this process with a step-by-step form that includes all the standard clauses and space to add your own rules. It’s fast, clear, and designed to help you rent with confidence.