Can I be evicted for my roommate’s actions?
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Can I be evicted for my roommate’s actions?
My roommate and I were given a 3-day notice to vacate (nuisance). My roommate forgot about a container he had filling with water; it flooded the kitchen floor and then our downstairs neighbor’s apartment. Am I legally subject to this 3-day ultimatum? Am I responsible for his nuisance? Also, neither of us clean the place enough, so would that also constitute a nuisance?
Asked on May 25, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Utah
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Unfortunately you can be evicted for the actions of your roommate. When you signed your lease, you became "jointly and severally liable" for the each other's actions. Consequently you both can be served a notice to quit for breach of the lease, whether or not your roommate's actions were intentional. Additionally, if neither of you clean the premises adequately, then you are just as liable as your roommate.
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