Adding a Roommate to Your Lease in Minnesota: What Renters Need to Know

Thinking about sharing your apartment in Minnesota by adding a roommate? Bringing someone new onto a lease can help with rent, but it’s important to follow Minnesota tenant laws and your lease terms. This guide explains the process, the forms you’ll need, and how state law protects your rights when subletting or sharing rental housing.

Can You Add a Roommate in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, your ability to add a roommate depends on both your lease agreement and state law. Most leases require you to get your landlord’s written approval before letting a new person move in. Never assume you can sublet or add a roommate without permission, as this can risk eviction.

Step-by-Step: How to Add a Roommate to Your Lease

• Check your lease: Most Minnesota leases directly address subletting or allowing extra tenants.
• Talk to your landlord: Request written approval. Many landlords have their own roommate or tenant application forms.
• Complete a rental application: Your landlord may require your roommate to fill out an application or undergo background screening.
• Sign a lease addendum: If approved, your landlord might require a Lease Addendum that officially lists your new roommate as a tenant.
• Update deposit and payment arrangements: Adding a tenant can change your rent or security deposit responsibilities. Confirm any adjustments in writing.

Official Forms and Notices

• Lease Addendum (No standard state form):
  When used: After landlord approval, the Lease Addendum documents the addition of a new tenant. For example, if your landlord approves your friend to move in, both of you would sign an addendum modifying your current lease to include their name and responsibilities.
  See guidance from the Minnesota Attorney General: Adding Roommates or Tenants
• Rental Application (Landlord-specific):
  When used: Most landlords require a separate application for each new adult occupant to check references or run background checks. Always use your landlord’s official form.

While Minnesota does not provide standard state-wide forms for adding roommates, ensure that any agreement or addendum is in writing and signed by all parties for legal protection.

What If Your Landlord Refuses?

If your landlord refuses without a valid reason (such as not meeting screening criteria), check your lease for any appeal process or contact Minnesota tenant rights organizations for advice. You are not allowed to add an extra occupant without the landlord’s explicit written consent, unless your lease states otherwise.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

The core law governing renters in Minnesota is outlined in the Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant[1]. This legislation covers everything from rental agreements and deposits to processes for lawful eviction.

• Your landlord cannot charge illegal fees or discriminate based on protected status when considering your roommate.
• New tenants should receive all the same rights and disclosures as existing tenants.
• The Minnesota Attorney General's Landlord and Tenant Handbook is a helpful legal reference.

The primary authority for disputes about rental agreements in Minnesota is the Minnesota Housing Court.

Penalties for Adding a Roommate Without Permission

Adding a roommate without landlord approval may violate your lease and could lead to a notice to cure or quit—a warning to remove the unauthorized occupant or possibly be evicted. If you find yourself in this situation, respond quickly and consider seeking help from a legal aid service.

A Quick Summary

To safely add a roommate to your lease, always get your landlord’s written approval, use a made-in-writing addendum, and ensure the new roommate is screened as needed. This minimizes risk and protects all parties under Minnesota law.

FAQ: Adding Roommates and Shared Housing in Minnesota

1. Can my landlord deny my request to add a roommate?
   Yes. In Minnesota, landlords may refuse if the applicant does not meet reasonable screening criteria, or if the lease prohibits additional tenants.
2. Is there a state form I must use to add a roommate?
   No. Minnesota does not provide a statewide add-a-roommate form. Use a written addendum or amendment supplied by your landlord and keep a copy for your records.
3. Do I need to pay extra security deposit when adding a roommate?
   Possibly. If your landlord allows, they may request an increased or additional security deposit. Details must be provided in writing as part of your amended lease.
4. What happens if I add a roommate without permission?
   Your landlord may consider it a lease violation, which can result in a written warning or, in serious cases, an eviction notice.
5. Where can I get legal help if there’s a dispute with my landlord?
   Start with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office or connect with a local legal aid clinic for renters.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Always review your lease and get written landlord approval before adding anyone to your home.
• Document the change using a signed lease addendum or amendment.
• If issues arise, refer to the Minnesota landlord-tenant statutes and seek support from state resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Housing Court – For rental disputes and legal filings
• Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Handbook – Detailed tenant rights information
• Minnesota Attorney General’s Office – For complaints and general renter assistance
• Law Help MN – Find free or low-cost legal aid for tenants

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1. Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant
2. Minnesota Attorney General – Adding Roommates or Tenants
3. Minnesota Housing Court

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