What Is a Lease Amendment?

A Lease Amendment, also known as a lease amending agreement or lease addendum, is:

• A formal agreement between a landlord and tenant to modify one or more terms of a Lease Agreement
• A written record of the changes or additions made to the original lease

Why Do I Need a Lease Amending Agreement?

A Lease Amending Agreement is recommended because it:

• Allows you to keep the original lease intact
• Demonstrates your agreement to the amendment(s)
• Provides documentation that you can refer to in the event of
  a misunderstanding

What Are the Reasons to Amend a Lease?

There are a number of reasons that a landlord or tenant might request an amendment.

A landlord might propose:

• A rent increase
• Modifying services such as outdoor maintenance
• Changes to property or common area usage
• Changes to pet or smoking policies

A tenant might request:

• Authorization to make improvements
• Permission to have a pet
• Permission to have a roommate
• Consent to sublet or assign the lease

What Information Is Needed in a Lease Amendment?

In addition to the written amendments, your Lease Amending Agreement should also include the following information:

• Number of times the lease has been previously amended
• Property location
• Landlord and tenant information
• Signing date of the original lease

What if a Landlord and Tenant Disagree?

Both the landlord and tenant should be familiar with any rules contained in the lease about making amendments. A lease cannot be amended without the consent of both parties.

If you cannot agree to the proposed changes:

• The landlord must wait until the current lease expires or is terminated, but can incorporate the changes in a new lease
• The tenant can review the current lease to see if it can be terminated early, or wait until it expires