California Roommate Agreement Template

California rules built into this template

• Lease liability: a roommate agreement binds only the roommates; each roommate who signs the lease usually remains responsible to the landlord for the full rent.
• Deposit return: the landlord must return the deposit, less lawful deductions, within 21 days after the tenant vacates the premises (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5).

What the Roommate Agreement includes

1. The Home and the Lease
2. Term
3. Rent
4. Security Deposit
5. Utilities and Shared Expenses
6. House Rules
7. Guests
8. Cleaning and Damage
9. Privacy and Personal Property
10. Moving Out
11. Dispute Resolution
12. State Law
13. General Provisions
14. Governing Law

Frequently asked questions

Is a roommate agreement legally binding in California?

Yes, as a contract between the roommates, for example to recover an unpaid share of rent or utilities in small claims court. It does not change the lease or bind the landlord.

What happens if a roommate moves out early?

Under the Standard agreement, the departing roommate gives written notice and stays responsible for their share until the notice period ends or an approved replacement starts paying. Obligations to the landlord under the lease continue regardless.

What is the difference between the Standard and Professional Roommate Agreement?

The Standard edition is a complete, state-aware Roommate Agreement for common situations. The Professional edition adds longer clause coverage, schedules, and optional modules for more complex matters. You can preview either edition free before you pay.

Roommate Agreement templates for other states

• Texas
• Florida
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Illinois
• Ohio
• Georgia
• North Carolina
• Michigan
• All states and countries