Michigan Roommate Agreement Guide

Avoid awkward money talks and last-minute disputes—learn exactly how to build a legally sound roommate contract and split rent fairly in Michigan.

Two Michigan roommates sit at a kitchen table drafting their roommate agreement

Why a Roommate Agreement Matters

Signing a lease together creates a legal marriage of sorts—every co-tenant becomes jointly and severally liable for the full rent and any damage. A Michigan roommate agreement doesn’t override your landlord’s lease, but it does spell out internal rules before tensions boil over. Think of it as a house constitution covering money, chores, guests, and exit strategies. Without one, you’ll be leaning on handshake promises when the Wi-Fi bill goes unpaid or a partner moves in “temporarily.” A written contract clarifies expectations, supplies evidence in small-claims court, and protects friendships.

Because Michigan rental markets tighten each year—especially in college towns—many tenants grab the first available room. A solid agreement gives everyone the same playbook from day one, blending courtesy with enforceable terms.

Clause-by-Clause Walk-Through

1. Rent Share

Purpose: Establish how much each person pays and the due date.

Courts look for: clear dollar figures or percentage; payment method.

Each Roommate shall pay the following amounts on or before the 1st of every month:
• Alex – $650 via Venmo @Landlord
• Brianna – $550 via Zelle

2. Utilities & Internet

Purpose: Prevent the “I paid last month” cycle.

Sample wording:

Utilities (gas, electric, water) will be split 50/50. Internet is paid solely by Alex; Brianna reimburses $30 monthly.

3. Cleaning & Chores

Define tasks and frequency—courts rarely enforce chores, but clarity quells resentment.

4. Quiet Hours & Noise

Specify time windows (e.g., 10 p.m.–7 a.m.) and headset requirements for gaming.

5. Guest & Overnight Policies

Limit guest nights per month and require 24-hour notice for out-of-town visitors.

6. Pets & Smoking

Note pet deposits between roommates and whether smoking is banned indoors.

7. Security Deposit Allocation

Any landlord deduction will be divided in the same ratio as monthly rent unless attributable to one roommate's negligence.

8. Early Termination & Subletting

Require 30-day written notice and an approved replacement who passes the landlord’s screening.

9. Conflict Resolution

Escalate from house meeting ➜ written notice ➜ community mediation ➜ small claims.

Add clauses for parking, furniture damage, and agreement modifications. Courts favor agreements that mirror lease language and assign dollar values to breaches.

Ways to Split the Rent

Choosing a method before move-in avoids tense math sessions later. Compare popular formulas:

Rent-Split Methods Compared
Method Best For Drawbacks Example Formula
Equal Split Identical rooms & incomes Feels unfair if bedroom sizes differ $1 200 ÷ 2 = $600 each
Income-Based % Big salary gaps Requires sharing personal data Rent × (Your income / Total income)
Square Footage Differently sized rooms Ignores closet size, windows Rent × (Room ft² / Total bedroom ft²)
Amenity Credit One ensuite or parking spot Hard to price perks objectively $50 off for private bath
Seniority Discount New roommate joins existing lease Can breed resentment Newest pays +$25 premium

Interactive Rent-Split Calculator

Plug in total rent and choose a method to see each roommate’s share. Data stays in your browser.

Per-Roommate Breakdown

RoommateShare ($)

Drafting Tips & Sample Wording

Use plain English, list dollar amounts, and date the document. Each roommate should sign and keep a photo of the agreement. Re-visit quarterly—small edits beat emergency negotiations.

[SIGNATURES]
Alex _________________  Date ____/____/____
Brianna _________________  Date ____/____/____

Attach your lease as Exhibit A so newcomers see original terms.

Handling Changes & Disputes

  1. Talk first. Most conflicts dissolve after a calm conversation.
  2. Written notice. Summarize the issue—use our sample letters tool.
  3. Mediation. Community Dispute Resolution Programs settle many roommate quarrels for free—see mediation guide.
  4. Small claims. Sue for unpaid utilities up to $7 000. Our upcoming roommate-disputes/ page will cover evidence tips.
  5. Eviction risk. If the landlord receives partial rent, they can file a single eviction naming all occupants—so police your agreement early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes—courts treat signed agreements like any private contract. While it cannot override your lease, it can establish reimbursement rights between roommates. Judges often reference it when dividing liability in small-claims cases.

Possibly. Landlords may name “unknown occupants” in eviction complaints. A roommate agreement will not stop the eviction, but it can require the non-tenant roommate to pay holdover costs.

Add a dated addendum with all roommates’ signatures. Email photo copies to everyone. Consistency beats handwritten side notes.

Use an early-termination clause: departing roommate continues paying until a replacement passes the landlord’s screening or the group negotiates a new split.

Not required, but notarizing—or filming signatures—adds authenticity if someone later claims a forgery.

Michigan deposit interest (0.6 % APR) accrues to tenants. Unless your lease states otherwise, roommates can split it in the same ratio as rent.

Enough to prevent ambiguity: list tasks, frequency, and a rotating schedule. Courts rarely enforce chores, but clarity improves compliance.