Roommate Moving Out? The Complete Handover Guide
When a roommate leaves, there's more to sort out than just packing boxes. Use this handover guide to protect your deposit and keep things smooth.
Before They Leave
The handover starts before the actual move-out date. Sit down with your departing roommate at least two weeks before they go. Review the inventory of shared items, discuss any outstanding bills, and agree on the condition everything should be left in.
Take photos of every room together. These will be invaluable if there's any dispute about the deposit later. It's also worth checking your tenancy agreement — some landlords require written notice of a roommate change.
Financial Loose Ends
Calculate final utility shares up to the move-out date. Settle any shared subscriptions — Netflix, Spotify, cleaning supplies — and remove their name where possible. If they paid a share of the deposit, agree on how and when it'll be returned when the tenancy eventually ends.
HomeCo's expense tracking makes this simple: you can export a full history of all shared expenses and settlements, so there's no ambiguity about who owes what.
Finding the Replacement
Agree with your landlord on the process for approving a new roommate. Post on local groups, Flatmates.com, and Spareroom. Vet candidates carefully — you're choosing someone you'll live with, not just someone who can pay rent.
Ready to simplify shared living? Download the HomeCo app today — manage expenses, chores, and communication with your roommates in one place. Available on iOS and Android.