Renting a room usually starts with an application. Knowing what the process looks like, and what to ask about it, makes it less stressful.
Who reviews the application
The landlord, property manager, or operator reviews it. Ask who that is, how long a decision usually takes, and how they will contact you.
What to have ready
Applications commonly ask for the items below. Requirements differ from one landlord to the next, so check the application itself.
- Government-issued ID.
- Proof of income or subsidy. This can be recent pay stubs, a benefits letter, or a voucher or subsidy award letter.
- References.
Ask for the criteria in writing
A fair process applies the same written criteria to every applicant. Ask to see the criteria before you pay an application fee, and ask what the fee covers.
Using a voucher
Whether a housing voucher can pay for a room in a shared house depends on your local housing authority’s rules, so ask the landlord and your housing authority early. Read how vouchers and Fair Market Rent work.
After you’re approved
Expect to sign a lease and pay the first month’s rent and a security deposit. Amounts vary, so ask what you’ll owe at move-in, and read the lease fully before you sign.
If you have questions
If something in the application is unclear, ask the landlord directly instead of guessing.