Roommate Disputes
Complete guide to handling roommate money disputes in small claims court.
Roommate Money Disputes
When roommates don't pay their share, damage common areas, or leave you holding the bag on bills, small claims court can help recover what you're owed.
What Small Claims CAN Handle
- •Unpaid rent share or utility bills
- •Security deposit share not returned
- •Damage to your personal property
- •Damage they caused that you paid to fix
- •Money loaned to roommate
- •Shared expenses they agreed to split
What Requires Different Approaches
- •Getting them to move out (eviction process)
- •Disputes with the landlord (separate case)
- •Harassment or threatening behavior (police)
- •Theft of your property (police report first)
- •Claims exceeding small claims limits
- •Emotional distress or "bad roommate" behavior
Common Scenarios
Unpaid Rent Share
Roommate moved out early or just stopped paying their share of rent, leaving you to cover the full amount to avoid eviction.
Unpaid Utility Bills
The utilities were in your name, roommate didn't pay their share, and you're stuck with the entire bill.
Security Deposit Split
You paid the full security deposit. Roommate moved out but won't pay you back their share, or caused damage that ate into the deposit.
Damaged Property
Roommate damaged your furniture, electronics, or other personal belongings, or caused damage to the apartment that you had to pay for.
Evidence You Should Gather
Roommate disputes often rely on informal agreements. Gather whatever documentation you have to prove what was agreed.
Written Agreements
- Roommate agreement (if you have one)
- Lease showing both names
- Venmo/PayPal transaction history
- Check copies or bank transfers
- Utility bills showing your name
Communications
- Text messages discussing money owed
- Emails about rent/utility split
- Messages where they admit owing money
- Group chat discussions about expenses
Financial Records
- Bank statements showing your payments
- Rent receipts from landlord
- Utility payment confirmations
- Calculation of what's owed
Damage Evidence
- Photos of damage caused
- Repair receipts or estimates
- Landlord's deduction letter
- Photos of your items before damage
Key Considerations for Roommate Cases
Pro Tip: Get It In Writing Now
Send a text or email summarizing what they owe and ask them to confirm. Their acknowledgment ("Yeah, I know I owe you $800") is powerful evidence.
Consider the Relationship
Small claims can work, but if they're a friend or connected to your social circle, a demand letter alone often prompts payment without burning bridges.
Example Case + How This Site Helps
Example: A former roommate left early and never paid their share.
Your roommate moved out mid-lease, leaving unpaid rent and utilities. You covered the shortfall and now seek reimbursement.
Typical claim range: $900-$4,500
What to collect first
- Shared lease terms and payment arrangement messages
- Rent ledger and utility bills you paid alone
- Move-out communication and unpaid balance breakdown
Confirm fit and priorities
Start with the quiz so the app can steer you toward the right dispute flow and state rules.
Take the quizOrganize evidence and timeline
Use Case Manager to track facts, deadlines, and uploads so your story is clear and ready for court.
Open Case ManagerPrepare your pre-filing package
Generate a demand letter and supporting documents to improve settlement chances before filing.
Build demand packagePlan filing and hearing prep
Use filing guidance, calendar, and statement tools so you can submit correctly and present clearly.
Review filing stepsReady to Assess Your Case?
Take our intake quiz to organize your facts and see if small claims is right for your situation.
Legal Disclaimer
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and locality, and information may be outdated. No attorney-client relationship is created. Consult a licensed attorney for advice about your specific situation. See our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.