Subletting apartments is becoming more and more popular these days. It can be very useful for residents who need to move out of their apartments earlier than they intended, or for those who need to go away for some time. Perhaps you’ve found a job in another state, or you’re going away on vacation or to study for the summer. If you’re thinking of subletting your apartment, here are some things you need to know to avoid an unpleasant situation.

• When signing a lease, make sure it allows subletting. Most leases will give you this privilege. If you have already signed a lease that doesn’t allow subletting, talk to your property manager about your situation, and see if they can help you. They may be able to offer you some helpful options.

• Remember that your apartment is still your responsibility. The original resident is still bound to the terms of the lease, even while someone else is staying there. This means that if the sub-resident fails to pay their rent or fulfill any other obligations, it becomes your problem. Because of this, it is always a good idea to check in with your property manager while you are away. Ask them if rent is being paid or if the sub-resident is causing any trouble that might affect you. Save your own skin. Don’t let someone else create problems for you.

• Beware of fraudulent and irresponsible people. It’s always important to get substantial information about the sub-resident. What is their permanent address? Do they have a good history of being responsible? Ask questions; even if the sub-resident is someone you know. You can make a better decision on whom to sublease your apartment to when you have more information.

• Give the sub-resident a copy of your original lease to help them better understand their rights and responsibilities. The sub-resident has the same rights as the original resident; so for example, they cannot be evicted through improper means.

• If you have roommates, let them meet the sub-resident, and make sure that they are fine with that person subleasing your apartment.

Some places you can advertise your apartment for subletting are www.craigslist.org and www.sublet.com. Sometimes, subletting an apartment may not be the easiest thing, especially if it is during that time of year when hardly anyone is looking for an apartment. But these websites can help make things easier for you.

Once you have found someone, don’t forget to make sure that your property manager is okay with it as well. They may want to run an application process, but once that is all settled, you’re free and ready to start your new adventure away from your old apartment.