Flatmate Not Paying Rent!

I'm sharing a 2 bedroom apartment with another girl, and the lease started 1st August 2008. My flatmate STILL hasn't found a job, and decided in September that she can't afford the place, so she found someone else to temporarily take the room until she found a job. This new girl has just left, but decided not to pay me her $1000 share of the bills. Also, we need to find someone to replace the room quick, because my original flatmate still has no job and can't afford it. She says she is going to bring MEN in to view the room. I do not want to live with strangers, especially men, that makes me feel very, very uncomfortable.


1. Legally, am I allowed to ask my flatmate back for the $1000 that her tenant didn't pay?

2. Can I just pay the landlord my share of the rent and then ask her to chase up my flatmate for the other half?


I've had enough because I work very hard for my money, and I've been very responsible with the apartment and the bills, but everyone else seems to be taking advantage of me. Should I just find another place and just move out and leave my flatmate to deal with the mess?

Both our names are on the lease. I'm under the impression (from the Australian law that I've studied) that if one person doesn't pay, then the other person is still responsible, and then afterwards I'd have to chase her up myself through the small claims tribunal.

Well if it's your flatmates name on the lease grab your stuff and move out. Get yourself into a serviced apartment until you find your own place. If she's messing around with you that much she can't be much of a friend. I've seen to many hangers on taking full advantage here in HK.

Hi jackie,


actually I am from singapore. I am interested to take over your unit. I am willing to share but the fact that I am a male chinese does not give me the opportunity to do so. I am a clean and neat singaporean and I am also very sincere to provide you advice for your situation.


Actually there are many solutions to solve this problem. I believe that you are too kind hearted in nature and I believe that normally this kind of cases your 1000 dollars is very hard to recover but you can actually heed the other man advice to change unit. Please let me know if you are willing to rent me the unit. Thank you.


you may directly email me


teamchina@mobifone.com.vn


actually I intend to hire some one for my small company. If I am able to give a job then the room mate may have the capital power to return you the $1000.


There are many solutions. Please send me a reply.