Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Texas

Room-mate malfunction

My room-mate and I signed a 14 month lease on Aug. 13th. Last Monday night she informed me that she was moving out and that I could take care of the apartment stuff. On Tuesday morning, she was gone. I know where she is staying now. But, what I want to know is, that since we both signed the lease, if she refuses to pay, am I held responsible for 100% of it? Is there any way to legally, make her pay? There are a lot of fees for breaking a lease - and I don't want to be stuck paying it all.


Asked on 10/02/00, 2:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lawrence Maun Lawrence J. Maun, P.C.

Re: Room-mate malfunction

You and your roomate are probably "jointly and severally" liable. This means that the landlord can look to either of you for payment in full. As to your agreement with your roomate, that is an oral contract. If she/he agreed to pay 1/2 the lease costs you may recover for breach of contract. Small cliams court would probably be your best route. You can sue there without a lawyer and the process is pretty simple. You could ask the court to order your roomate to pay you 1/2 the cost of the lease.

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Answered on 10/31/00, 11:08 am


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