Sharing rental housing with roommates can be a great way to make living in Newfoundland and Labrador more affordable. But to avoid disputes and ensure everyone’s rights are protected, it’s important to understand how rent and security deposits should be split according to provincial laws. This guide explains your rights, legal forms, and key issues when dividing rent and deposits with roommates.
Understanding Shared Tenancy in Newfoundland and Labrador
In Newfoundland and Labrador, tenants sharing a rental property may either:
- Be joint tenants (all names on the lease) – everyone is equally responsible to the landlord.
- Be subtenants/roommates (not all on the original lease) – a primary tenant may sublet space to others.
If you and your roommates all sign the rental agreement, you share legal responsibilities, including paying rent and covering any damages. If only one or some are on the lease, only those listed have a direct legal relationship with the landlord.
For more on your rights in this province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
How to Split Rent Fairly
The law doesn’t require a specific formula for splitting rent with roommates. However, fairness and transparency are key. Common methods include:
- Splitting rent equally among all occupants.
- Dividing rent based on room size, amenities, or whether a room has an ensuite bathroom.
All tenants on the lease are jointly responsible for the full rent. If one roommate does not pay their share, the landlord can seek the total rent from any or all tenants named in the rental agreement.
Rent Payment Process
Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador typically require rent to be paid in a single payment for the entire unit each month, rather than receiving separate payments from roommates. Make sure you agree on a rent payment method and set clear expectations in writing. For more details on rent payments and best practices, read Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
Dividing the Security Deposit
The Residential Tenancies Act (NL) limits security deposits to a maximum of three-quarters of one month's rent per rental agreement, not per person. The landlord collects and returns the deposit for the unit as a whole, not individual tenants.
When splitting a deposit:
- Work out how much each roommate will contribute up front.
- Put the deposit amount and each roommate's contribution in writing.
When moving out, the deposit is returned to all tenants named on the lease or to the tenant who paid it—make sure you keep records of your contribution to prevent disputes.
Official Forms and Deposit Return
If you need to request the return of your deposit at the end of a tenancy, use the official Security Deposit Return Form available through the Residential Tenancies Office of Newfoundland and Labrador. This form is submitted if there’s a disagreement with the landlord about the return of the deposit. For detailed information about rental deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Roommate Agreements: Reducing Conflict
While not required by law, creating a written roommate agreement can help prevent misunderstandings. This can outline:
- How rent and deposit are split
- Who pays for which utilities
- Rules for guests, smoking, cleaning, and shared spaces
- What happens if one roommate wants to move out
What Happens if a Roommate Moves Out?
If a roommate leaves before the lease ends, the remaining tenants are still responsible for the full rent. The deposit is only returned when the tenancy for the unit ends, not when a single roommate leaves. Discuss in advance how you’ll handle this situation—for example, by choosing whether the incoming roommate repays the deposit portion to the departing roommate directly.
Key Legislation and Tribunal
All rights and obligations for tenants and landlords are set by the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)[1]. Disputes over rent, deposits, or roommate issues can be resolved through the Residential Tenancies Office (the official tribunal that hears these cases).
For available rentals and to find new roommates or homes, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada quickly and easily online.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How is the security deposit split when there are multiple roommates?
All roommates usually contribute their share, but the landlord receives and returns a single deposit for the rental unit, not to each person individually. Work out the split in writing and keep records. - What if my roommate doesn't pay their share of rent?
If you’re all named on the lease, each tenant is equally responsible to the landlord. If someone doesn’t pay, the landlord can ask any or all tenants for the full amount. - Can the landlord keep my part of the deposit if a roommate damages the property?
Yes. The landlord can use the deposit to cover damages regardless of which roommate caused them. The remaining tenants need to resolve the split amongst themselves. - What happens to the deposit if a roommate moves out early?
The deposit is typically only returned at the end of the tenancy, not when a single person leaves. The outgoing roommate must arrange their share with the others. - Should I get a written roommate agreement?
While not required by law, a written agreement helps avoid disputes about rent, deposits, and responsibilities.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Office of Newfoundland and Labrador – forms, guides, and dispute resolution
- Official Forms for Tenants and Landlords – including security deposit forms.
- Tenant advocacy: Coalition of NL Housing – information and support for tenants.
- Provincial information: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador
