How to sublet your apartment, step by step.
Leaving for the summer, a semester or an internship? Here's how to find someone to take your room without getting burned.
1. Check your lease and ask your landlord
Most leases require landlord approval to sublet. Ask in writing before you post. Submet can write that request for you, so the most awkward step takes one tap.
2. Price it to move
An empty room still costs you full rent. Many people price summer sublets a little below what they pay so it fills fast. Covering most of your rent beats covering none of it.
3. Film a 15-second video tour
Renters have been burned by fake listings. A short video of the actual room builds trust instantly and gets more messages than photos alone.
4. Bundle your stuff
Leaving your bed, desk or TV? List them with the room. Subletters love furnished rooms, and you don't have to move or store everything.
5. Pick someone who fits your roommates
Your roommates have to live with whoever you pick. Use the Vibe Check to find someone whose lifestyle matches the house, and read their vouches.
6. Put it in writing
Sign a sublease that lists the dates, rent, deposit and house rules. Submet's roommate agreement covers quiet hours, guests, chores and bills.
Free to join. Takes 30 seconds.
The first 100 in every city become Founding Members and get first pick when it opens.
Questions, answered
Is it legal to sublet my apartment?
Usually yes, as long as your lease allows it and your landlord approves. Rules vary by state and lease, so check yours.
How fast can I find a subletter?
It depends on your city and dates. Posting early, pricing fairly and adding a video tour all help it fill faster.
What if I need out of my lease completely?
That's a lease takeover. Someone takes over the rest of your lease so you don't come back.