Split Lease $550 ea., Landlord asking $1100 since roommate left

[Eiregrl73]

xxx

[Eiregrl73]

On more thing, I cannot find my lease at all. Do I ask them for a copy of it?
I'm 99% sure that it was signed for $550, and 100% sure it's a month to month. They've even acknowledged that.

[OHlandlord]

You need to see your actual lease to see what it says about the rent before I can answer this question. Ask the LL to give you a new copy (you might say it is to change cable providers or some other simple fib to get it from them). Look specifically to see if it states $550 for rent and/or if it has a clause that states that the two tenants are "jointly and separately liable" for the rent of the unit or a like clause. If that clause is there, you can be held liable for the whole amount. Being separately and jointly liable means that both parties are responsible for everything in the lease, and that either one can be pursued for the terms (and rent). Get a copy of the lease ASAP, then post the clauses about rent here so we can see how they are worded.

Another question, did each of you sign a separate lease, or did you sign on the same one? To help you to find another roommate, you could post on craigslist (what for scam artists), a local bulletin board, the university or college board near you, put up a flier at a nearby convenience store, laundromat, or bank, etc. You could also put an ad in the paper, but screen the applicants very well. If you want more info about screening, please ask for this.