Updated over 8 years ago on . Most recent reply
Hostage to co-tenant
Lease is coming to term end and landlord said unless BOTH co-tenants move out that I will be liable for the unit. I asked the landlord how I can go about getting off the lease, and he gave a couple of conflicting options. I'm confused about it all. The co-tenant and I are NOT on good terms and I don't think I can negotiate anything with them help with this transition. Am I obligated to being hostage of this apartment unit? How long? If they stay there 10 years, am I also responsible until they leave?
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Give your official notice you are leaving in writing to the landlord if your landlord tenant act says it must be by mail pay attention to that too and do it in adequate time as specified in the lease if you don't do the notice per the local requirements you can wind up with a loophole that puts you on the hook for a bit longer so that is something you can do right away. The security deposit will be at issue if the co-tenant doesn't move, you may not be able to get it back.
Take a copy of your lease with you to consult a legal advisor on what the landlord can do. There are likely some tenant advocate organizations that can advise you and you should read the California Landlord Tenant guide. Check your lease to see if there is a clause that says your lease converts to month to month at the end, renews for a year, or says nothing, it could make a difference. Since you are at the end of your lease term it is different then if you were breaking the lease. Not surprising the landlord is going to say you are on the hook indefinitely doesn't mean it is true.