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Things you should consider before subletting a house
When looking for a subtenant, the best place to start asking is your close friends. Photo by Rachel Mabala
Subletting is one of the options that has helped people who are not able to pay for their anticipated households. However, it comes with different concerns that Adnan Mpuuga, the Executive Director of Eastland’s agency, says one should consider before subletting a house:
Legality
Mpuuga says that it is very important to know the actual landlord.
“Someone can kick you out of the house illegally, pretending to be the landlord. That is common with the fake property agents. After paying your rent they kick you out even when your period has not expired,” he says
Sign an agreement
Mpuuga further says that once you have established a perfect subtenant, you should write out an agreement with him or the owner of the house.
“The manager may provide this agreement or you may draft it yourselves, depending on the issues you have agreed on. The agreement should entail features such as utilities, and the process of paying,” he adds.
Mpuuga adds that your subtenant must be aware of the apartment’s initial condition so that you have proof if anything gets damaged.
Regulate the rate
Mpuuga also points out that when subletting, you must know the total rent for the house. Otherwise, you may find out that you are paying more than your partners.
“You should ask about the full amount as you are signing the agreement. That is because some housemates are not trustworthy,” he advises.
He adds that it is important to find out if your landlord receives the full rent lest you get accused of tresspassing.
“There are times when subtenants have paid the main tenant who may choose not to pay the landlord,” he posits.
Meeting the landlord
Mpuuga also mentions that every tenant or a subtenant must have a conversation with the landlord because they may have different rules when it comes to subletting.
“Landlords may have certain requirements regarding subtenants and the subletting process and how it can be done without any inconvenience,” he says.
He also says that subletting without your landlord’s knowledge or permission can get you into trouble, so it’s best to make them aware of your plans right from the start.
“You should ask your landlord if subletting is allowed. If it is illegal, you should notify your potential client,” he says.
Sumayah Nalukwago who has been a subtenant for five years in Ntinda, says that at first, subletting was not in her mind but due to numerous circumstances especially her job, she was forced to sublet.
Meeting the subtenant
Nalukwago says that when one has made a decision to sublet, make sure your subtenant is okay with it and discuss any concerns that they might have forced you to sublet.
“It is also a good idea to have a conversation about the kind of person you would be comfortable living with. This will help you to lower your expectation of a prospective subtenant,” she shares.
An honest subtenant
Nalukwago also says that one of the risks involved in subletting is to get a subtenant who is not committed to pay rent.
“If you get one, you will still be held responsible for ensuring that they pay religiously. However, the downside is that you will have to cover any balance or damages to the property,” she adds.
Ensure that you get a subtenant who is trustworthy. “When you are ready to look for a subtenant, start by asking close friends. for recollections of anyone who is
