Can my landlord bring changes in existing lease agreement before it expires?
Full Question:
I rented out an apartment 7 months ago for a period of 15 months. I have a copy of the written agreement that was signed by the landlord and myself. The rent of $900 per month that was initially agreed upon was supposed to be inclusive of the electricity and water charges. Now my landlord wants to change the terms of the lease agreement and wants me to pay the electricity and water bills, apart from the rent amount which continues to be at $900. Can he change the terms of the lease agreement mid-way?
11/10/2016 |
Category: Landlord Ten... ยป Residential ... |
State: Michigan |
#26498
Answer:
While the agreement exists the landlord cannot change the existing terms arbitrarily just because they own the property. A change in a rule which affects the terms and conditions of the contract can pose a problem for the tenant. Any rule change that affects the tenant’s wallet or how they live in the rental property day-to-day can be considered a change in the terms and conditions of that lease agreement contract.
If the landlord wishes to modify the lease agreement, it has to be done as a lease addendum. It means that the landlord and tenant both agree to amend a certain part of the contract they signed. A lease addendum gives the tenant some power in approving or negotiating the change because it cannot take effect unless both parties agree and sign. The change only occurs if they both enter into that agreement.
