Transfer Security Deposit When Roommates Change

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Review the lease for deposit transfer policies and steps.
• Formally notify the landlord of the roommate change and seek approval.
• Draft an agreement noting deposit amount, date, and new responsibility.
• Document room and common areas with date-stamped photos before the switch.
• Collect signatures from all roommates to confirm agreement terms.
• Specify in writing how damages or cleaning costs will be split.
• Request landlord’s written acknowledgment of the updated deposit list.
• Arrange deposit share payment directly between outgoing and incoming roommates.
• Update joint utility or service accounts to reflect the new roommate.
• Store all agreements and documents in a secure shared digital folder.
• Schedule a walkthrough with all parties to verify space condition at transfer.
• Remind roommates to review deposit status ahead of final move-out.