Can You Rent to a Minor?

Only indirectly. Legally, it is not possible to rent to a minor directly. Under the laws of most states, the tenant must be 18 years of age to engage in a legal contract.

If you decide to rent your property to a minor, there are alternative ways to allow a minor to be your tenant. Some states require a co-signer, usually the minor’s parent or guardian, to sign the lease alongside the minor. Note that in this case, only the adult co-signer will be responsible for any legal liability that may arise.

A notable exception is the case of an emancipated minor. Emancipation grants a minor the full responsibilities of an adult, including the ability to sign a lease. If a minor claims to be emancipated, make sure you ask for copies of the court documents granting them legal emancipated status.