Room Rental Agreement Template – California

Room Rental Agreement

This Room Rental Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into on [Date], by and between:

Landlord / Primary Tenant: [Full Name]
Address: [Full Property Address]
Email: [Email Address]
Phone: [Phone Number]

and

Renter: [Full Name]
Email: [Email Address]
Phone: [Phone Number]

Together referred to as the "Parties."

1. Property and Room Description

The Renter is renting a private room at [Property Address], identified as [Room Identifier], located within a shared dwelling. Room details: [e.g., upper-floor bedroom with en‑suite bathroom / closet / furnishings (if any)]. Shared spaces may include the kitchen, bathrooms, living area, corridors, garage, patio, or laundry as checked below: ☐ Kitchen ☐ Bathroom ☐ Living Room ☐ Laundry ☐ Patio ☐ Other: [Describe].

2. Term of Agreement

The tenancy commences on [Start Date] and will either end on [End Date] (fixed‑term) or continue month‑to‑month with [X] days’ written notice by either Party. Any renewal or extension will be documented in writing prior to the end of the current term. Move‑in and move‑out walkthroughs will be scheduled to document condition.

3. Rent and Payment Terms

Monthly rent is $[Amount], due on the [Day] of each month and payable via [Bank Transfer / ACH / Check / Online Portal / Cash]. If rent is not received within [X] days after the due date, a late fee of $[Amount] may be assessed and daily interest of [Rate]% may accrue if permitted by applicable law. Returned or reversed payments do not satisfy the obligation and may incur reasonable charges.

4. Security Deposit

A refundable security deposit of $[Amount] is due before move‑in and may be applied to unpaid rent, damages beyond ordinary wear, or other lawful charges. Within [X] days after move‑out, an itemized statement and any refund will be provided to the forwarding address supplied by Renter. Renter must leave the room in substantially the same condition, minus reasonable wear.

5. Utilities and Expenses

Utilities are ☐ included in rent ☐ shared among occupants as follows: Electricity [Equal/%], Water [Equal/%], Gas [Equal/%], Internet [Equal/%], Trash/Recycling [Equal/%]. If metering is shared, allocation will be based on fair use or another agreed method documented here: [Method]. Any extraordinary usage may be charged proportionally if reasonable and documented.

6. House Rules and Conduct

Renter will keep personal and common areas tidy, observe quiet hours [e.g., 10 PM–7 AM], and respect neighborly standards. Guests are subject to prior approval; overnight stays beyond [X] nights per month require written consent. No smoking indoors; pets are ☐ not allowed ☐ allowed as follows: [Type/Breed/Weight/Deposit/Rules].

7. Repairs and Maintenance

Renter shall promptly report needed repairs and avoid actions that could worsen a condition. Minor repairs under $[X] may be the Renter’s responsibility if caused by misuse or negligence; otherwise, Landlord handles structural and major systems. Landlord may access common systems with reasonable notice for inspection or repair, except in emergencies.

8. Use of Shared Spaces and Storage

Renter may use shared areas in a respectful, scheduled manner; cleaning rotations or shared supplies may be agreed here: [Details]. Personal items in common spaces must be minimized and labeled; dedicated storage areas (if any) are: [Locations/Rules]. Parking/bike storage is ☐ available ☐ not available; if available, the assigned space is: [Space/Permit].

9. Termination and Move‑Out

Upon notice, Renter will vacate by [Move‑out Date], remove belongings, clean the room (including surfaces, floors, closets), and return all keys/cards/fobs. Final utility reconciliations (if shared) will be settled within [X] days of move‑out based on statements or reasonable estimates. Abandoned property will be handled consistent with applicable law and any agreed procedure here: [Procedure].

10. Governing Law; Entire Agreement

This Agreement is governed by the laws of [State] and constitutes the entire understanding of the Parties regarding the room rental. Any amendment or house‑rule update must be in writing and signed by both Parties. If any provision is invalid, the remainder shall continue in effect to the fullest extent permitted.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

Landlord / Primary Tenant Signature
Name: ______________________
Date: ______________________

Renter Signature
Name: ______________________
Date: ______________________