What happens if my roommate doesn’t pay their share of the rent?
The landlord can hold all tenants named on the lease jointly responsible for unpaid rent.
Tip: Keep written records of all rent payments and notices. If a roommate doesn’t pay, the landlord can pursue the full amount from all tenants named on the lease, so coordinate with the landlord to avoid disputes.
Can I move in a roommate without the landlord’s permission?
You must get written permission from your landlord before adding a roommate unless your lease allows for it.
Tip: Get written landlord approval before adding anyone to the lease, and ask for a lease amendment or addendum to avoid future disputes.
Do all roommates have to sign the lease?
Only those who sign the lease are legally recognized as tenants by the landlord.
What if only one roommate is on the lease?
Only the person on the lease has legal rental rights and responsibilities; others may be considered guests or subtenants.
Can the landlord evict everyone if one roommate breaks the rules?
Yes, if the breach is serious and all are on the lease, all tenants can be evicted together.
Can I remove a roommate if we don’t get along?
You cannot evict a roommate who is on the lease; only the landlord or Rental Office can do this legally.
What is a "joint tenancy"?
All tenants sign the lease and share equal legal responsibility for the rental.
What if my roommate wants to move out early?
If on the lease, all tenants remain responsible unless the lease is changed with landlord approval.
How can a roommate remove themselves from the lease?
Request that the landlord formally amend the lease; all parties must agree.
Can I sublet my room to someone else?
Subletting is only allowed with the landlord’s written consent, using the "Request for Sublet" form.
Fact: Obtain written consent and keep a copy of the approved sublet arrangement; without written consent, you could remain liable for the subtenant’s actions.
What official forms are required to add a roommate?
Use the landlord’s written consent and update the lease; there is no standard government form, but any change should be documented in writing (PEI Rental Office).
Tip: There is no universal government form—use written consent from the landlord and a lease amendment; document all changes in writing.
Does a roommate agreement need to be in writing?
It’s not required but strongly recommended to avoid disputes.
What is the difference between a roommate and a subtenant?
Roommates share the lease; subtenants rent from the main tenant, not the landlord.
Who can return the security deposit at move-out?
The landlord returns the deposit to all tenants named on the lease unless otherwise agreed.
If one roommate damages property, who pays?
All tenants can be held responsible for damage, even if only one is at fault.
Can my landlord raise the rent if a new roommate moves in?
No, rent increases are controlled by law and not based on tenants changing, unless all tenants move out and a new agreement is made.
What notice must I give if I want to move out?
If you are named on the lease, you must provide the landlord at least one month's written notice.
Fact: If you’re named on the lease, you must give at least one month’s notice in writing; check for any additional notice requirements in your lease.
Can I break my lease if my roommate leaves?
Not unless the landlord agrees or a legal reason exists; otherwise, you are still liable under the lease.
What happens to the lease if all tenants move out?
The lease ends if all signers legally give notice and vacate; otherwise, terms continue with remaining tenants.
Who handles tenancy disputes in PEI?
The Rental Office (Director of Residential Rental Property) resolves disputes for tenants and landlords.
Where can I find PEI’s tenancy laws?
See the Rental of Residential Property Act for full legal rights and rules.
Can the landlord end the tenancy if a non-lease roommate moves in?
If lease rules or the Act are violated, yes. Written permission should always be obtained first.
Are all tenants responsible for utilities?
If utilities are in the lease, all named tenants share responsibility unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Am I allowed to lock my bedroom door in a shared rental?
Yes, unless the lease prohibits it. Common areas must remain accessible.
Who decides rules for common areas?
Roommates can set rules together, but landlords may set general guidelines in the lease.
Can my landlord stop me from having overnight guests?
Only if the lease or house rules prohibit it, or if guests break occupancy or safety rules.
If my roommate moves out with no notice, do I pay their share?
All tenants on the lease are still responsible for the full rent.
What can I do if my roommate is violent or threatening?
Consider calling the police and seeking help. The Rental Office can provide guidance for ending tenancy due to safety concerns.
Can I be evicted because of my roommate’s behaviour?
Yes, if you share the lease and a breach occurs, you could all be affected by eviction.
How do I apply to resolve a roommate dispute?
File an "Application to Director" at the Rental Office for mediation or a decision.
Is there a government form for roommate disputes?
Use Form 2: "Application to Director" to address disputes involving rental agreements (download here).
Who gets the mail if only one tenant’s name is on it?
That tenant legally receives official notices; always update landlords and the Rental Office with tenancy changes.
Do roommate agreements override the lease?
No, the lease and PEI law always take priority over private roommate agreements.
Can I change the locks to keep out a roommate?
No, not unless the landlord consents or the Rental Office orders it for safety reasons.
How can we divide the security deposit when moving out?
The landlord returns the deposit to all named on the lease; you must agree on how to split it.
Is there a PEI form for notice to terminate tenancy?
Yes, use "Notice of Termination" (Form 4) (download here).
What if my roommate won’t leave after being given notice?
Only the landlord or Rental Office can legally evict a tenant; contact them for help.
Can I get government assistance for roommate disputes?
Yes, contact the Rental Office for free dispute resolution (Official Resource).
What forms are needed for changing occupants?
No standard form; use a written agreement with landlord consent.
Can my landlord charge extra if I add a roommate?
Only if the lease or Rental Office allows a rent increase for additional occupants.
Who is responsible for cleaning common areas?
All roommates share responsibility unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Do I need my roommate’s permission to have a pet?
Only if it’s part of your roommate agreement or the lease restricts pets.
Can I be held liable for my roommate’s guests’ damage?
Yes, all tenants can be responsible for any damage in the unit.
What if my roommate’s behaviour breaks the law?
Report criminal activity to the police and notify the landlord as soon as possible.
Does the landlord have to notify all roommates before entering?
Landlords must give 24 hours written notice to tenants named on the lease before entering, except in emergencies.
How are rent increases handled if a roommate leaves?
Rent cannot be increased unless proper notice and government rules are followed (see rent increase rules).
Where can I get the PEI Application to Director form?
The "Application to Director" (Form 2) is available here.
Can I talk privately to the Rental Office about a roommate?
Yes, the Rental Office can provide confidential advice on tenant issues (Official Resource).
Can a landlord force me to accept a new roommate?
No, a landlord must get all tenants’ agreement to change lease occupants.
