How to Record Changes to an Original Lease Agreement

An original lease agreement usually describes key aspects of a binding contract (parties' legal names, contract dates, location, applicable costs, restrictions). An agreement might span one page or multiple pages plus include specific details about how to record a change. Even if a contract fails to discuss changes, parties can mutually accept amendments.

The revised agreement will be recorded in different ways depending on the contract's subject matter and parties' intent. A local property management company might file all lease changes through an internal system, while an international company differentiates changes by geographic location (Midwest, Southeast, Northeast).

Instructions

1. Review the original agreement thoroughly. Make sure that you comply with any relevant clauses and provisions. For example, if the contract requires two weeks notice, you must notify the other party at least 14 calendar or business days in advance.

2. Prepare a revised agreement that is identified as (second, third, fourth) amended lease agreement. To minimize confusion, include altered along with unaltered sections so that all parties must not constantly refer to the original agreement.

3. Sign the agreement in front of witnesses and a notary public to establish additional evidence of the settled changes. Each party should receive a copy of the revised agreement.

4. Submit the revised agreement to applicable authorities. For example, when you entered into a contract directly with a government agency, you usually must address changes during an open meeting. If you are a landlord, provide the tenant with a copy, but you do not have to submit a record of the changes--unless there is a dispute.

5. Store the agreement in a safe place, especially if it was not filed in court. Consider scanning the document so you readily can access it later. Comply with the contract in full to avoid disputes or litigation--make additional amendments as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Obtain necessary approvals from managers, supervisors or business owners before recording changes. Make sure that the amendments are written clearly without legal jargon.

• If you must make many changes, rewrite the entire contract instead of attempting to salvage the original.

References

• Tarrant County: Third Amendment
• Arlington Public Schools: Amended Deed of Lease
• Law Depot: Lease Amendment