Solidarity: what it actually means for your finances
When you signed a joint tenancy with a solidarity clause, you committed to paying the entire rent if another flatmate defaults. Not just your share — the full amount. If your flatmate stops paying their €500 rent, the landlord can claim those €500 from you. This solidarity applies even after you leave, for debts arising before your commitment ends.
The 6-month rule: your legal exit
Since the 2014 ALUR law, your solidarity automatically ends 6 months after the date you give notice — even if nobody has replaced you. If you give notice today, in 6 months you are no longer responsible for future rent payments. However, you remain responsible for all debts that arose before that end date.
The correct procedure for leaving
Step one: notify the landlord by recorded letter with acknowledgement of receipt, clearly stating your intention to leave and your desired departure date. Respect the applicable notice period. If possible, propose a replacement — it makes things easier with the landlord and may accelerate your release from the solidarity obligation. Step two: request a partial inspection report to document the condition of the property on your departure date.
Negotiating with the landlord: often worth it
If you have a creditworthy replacement to propose, most landlords agree to draft an addendum to the tenancy agreement officially replacing your name with the new flatmate's. This addendum releases you from any future solidarity from the moment it's signed — you don't have to wait 6 months. It's the cleanest solution for all parties.
What if you leave without giving notice?
Leaving without formally giving notice is a mistake. Without a recorded letter, the 6-month period doesn't start running. You remain jointly liable indefinitely while the tenancy is in force. Always formalise a departure in writing.