Should I obtain a written room rental lease agreement to protect myself from a sudden eviction?

To fully abide by the law, you must definitely include the property owner in this type of room rental agreement. The current tenant does not have the legal authority (unless he or she produces a contract stating otherwise) to rent out any part of the owner’s property.

You should consider consulting with a lawyer in your area to see if you will be living in a part of town where such leasing is allowed under the relevant zoning laws. Room rental contracts can prove critical, particularly if the owner decides to sell the property and your lease term has yet to expire. You need to be sure your rights are fully protected.

Make sure the room rental contract contains clear language regarding any required deposit and how soon all (or part) of it must be returned to you once you move out at a time in keeping with the contract terms. Also, be sure to include your right to have the owner or landlord make timely repairs in the house that may affect your tenancy. However, if you have carelessly caused the damage tied to the needed repairs, you may have to help pay for some (or all) of it.