What to do when your subletter won't leave

October 15, 2025

First, read the sublet agreement, lease, and every notice. Confirm the agreed end date, payments, communications, and whether the person is a subtenant, co-tenant, or guest under the facts. Those distinctions matter.

Do not change locks, shut off utilities, remove property, or threaten the person out. A master tenant may be treated as a landlord toward a subtenant and may need to use a legal eviction process. Get advice before serving a notice or accepting further rent.

Document the situation and contact the Rent Board or a California housing lawyer promptly. Acting fast is important; improvising can make the dispute much worse.

Source: SF roommate and subtenant guidance.

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