Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey

Can My Ex-Roomates Sue Me

Can my ex-roomates sue me if I have left the apartment and no longer reside there and will no longer pay rent. My name is on the lease with theirs however, there is no contract between the 3 of us.


Asked on 4/04/03, 1:32 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Walter LeVine Walter D. LeVine, Esq.

Re: Can My Ex-Roomates Sue Me

Being named in the Lease makes you responsible. The extent to which depends upon the language in the Lease, which you do not provide. It can be from full responsibility to a proportionate share, depending upon the language. Just because you are no longer living there does not releive you from responsibility unless both the landlord and your co-tenants agreed in writing to relieve you from your responsibility. I suggest retaining a local real estate attorney to represent you in this matter before any claims are made against you. Start with the landlord, then the roommates.

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Answered on 4/06/03, 3:56 pm
Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Re: Can My Ex-Roomates Sue Me

If you signed the lease, the landlord can sue you and your roommates (if their names are also on the lease and they signed it).

If the landlord is suing only your roommates, if they have stopped paying the full amount of rent that is due, they may try to sue you to force you to perform your obligations on the lease.

You should consult a lawyer in the county where the apartment is located to determine what your rights and obligations are.

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Answered on 4/04/03, 2:53 pm


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