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Home Q&A Forum Can an addendum to a lease be used to modify the terms of a lease agreement?
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Landlord Tenant

Addendum to Lease

California

Asked on Sep 9, 2024

Can an addendum to a lease be used to modify the terms of a lease agreement?

I am currently renting a commercial space for my business, and I recently received an addendum to the lease agreement from my landlord. The addendum contains several changes to the original lease terms, including an increase in rent and modifications to the maintenance responsibilities. I am unsure if the landlord has the legal right to make these changes through an addendum, and I would like to understand the validity and enforceability of this document.

1 Attorney answer

Answer

Landlord Tenant

California

Answered 4 days ago

Dolan W.

ContractsCounsel verified

Business Lawyer
Licensed in California
Free Consultation

Hello! I'm so sorry about this situation! To modify a contract legally, the following requirements must be met: 1. All parties to the contract must agree to the modification. This means that both parties must sign and date the amendment to the contract. 2. The parties to the contract need new consideration -- something of legal value -- to modify a contract. For example, if a party wants more money for something they would need to provide additional performance in exchange. 3. A writing is not required for a modification, but recommended. In your case, you said that you received the addendum to the lease agreement and it contains changes to the original terms, including an increase in rent. An increase in rent would be a change to a material term, requiring you to pay more. Because you would be required to pay more, your landlord would have to offer something in exchange for this to be binding. This means that unless the lease was up for renewal, the modification would be invalid. Thanks again and good luck!

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