A lease is a written contract that is enforceable by each of the parties to the contract. The only way to change that contract is for each of the parties to agree to the change in writing. So no, you cannot change it but all of you can agree to change it.
You can also agree to sign a Lease Amendment. This is often called an addendum, and gets attached to the original lease. It is important that both the landlord and tenant sign a document stating that they intend to make a specific change to an existing lease. For example, the original lease might say no pets.
Steps to Add a Tenant to an Existing Lease Acquire a Written Request to Add a Tenant. Check the Unit's Occupancy Limit. Require a Completed Rental Application. Screen and Approve/Deny the New Tenant. Review the Details With Each Tenant.
Draft the amendment: The landlord should draft and review the lease amendment agreement. Verify that the changes comply with state and local laws. Also, check that there are no conflicts with the original lease agreement. Sign the amendment: Both the landlord and tenant should sign the new lease amendment.
Key takeaways: A contract amendment is a formal alteration or modification made to an already signed contract. A contract addendum is an additional document that is attached to the original contract. The decision to use an addendum or an amendment depends on the nature of the changes being made.
If the landlord agrees to add someone's name to a lease, it can be considered a “vacancy lease” even though no one is moving in or out and could result in a possible risk of losing any “preferential rent” agreement with the landlord. Tenants may wish to consult an experienced tenant lawyer before signing a new lease.
The term "ALTERATIONS" shall mean any modification of the improvements on the Premises which are provided by Lessor under the terms of this Lease, other than Utility Installations or Trade Fixtures.
A lease addendum is a document that is added to an existing lease agreement to introduce additional terms, conditions, or provisions without altering the original lease terms.
Lease addendums are used to provide additional information that the original lease does not cover.” In other words, a lease addendum allows you to add an additional document to or adjust the terms of your existing rental agreement.
A lease amendment is a document that allows landlords and tenants to make changes or additions to an existing lease agreement without the need to create an entirely new contract. It is a flexible tool that ensures both parties are on the same page when adjustments are required during the lease term.