A tenant can sublet without the landlord's permission, even if the lease says its forbidden. This article answers some common questions about subleasing and each party's rights in a sublease agreement.You are entitled to request permission to sublet from the owner, and the owner may not unreasonably refuse such permission. I signed a lease for an apartment in NYC and just found out that I will have to leave the area in 5 months. Subletting it is illegal. This article explains what can happen when there is no formal residential lease agreement in a roommate, family, or similar situation. If you would like to sublease your apartment, you must first tell your landlord that you want to do this. Generally, a rent controlled tenant who is not occupying an apartment pursuant to an existing lease cannot sublet the apartment without the owner's written. Discover how to sublease an apartment with our 4step guide. Get tips on finding a subtenant, drafting agreements, and more.