An improvements and modifications lease addendum grants tenants the opportunity to alter their rental property beyond the original specifications. This contractual add-on defines the extent to which alterations can be made, including any restrictions or limitations imposed by the landlord to protect the property’s integrity.
The document further outlines the responsibilities of both parties regarding damages or injuries arising from the approved alterations, often indemnifying the landlord from such liabilities. By signing this document, which is added to the lease agreement, both the landlord and tenant commit to its terms.
Key Components
- Authorized Alterations: The addendum specifies the scope of permissible alterations, encompassing changes ranging from cosmetic enhancements to structural modifications.
- Liability Indemnification: The landlord is excluded from any liability associated with the approved alterations, provided they comply with the agreed-upon terms.
- Permit Procurement: Tenants are obligated to secure any requisite licenses or permits, ensuring legal compliance throughout the improvement process.
Types of Alterations
The various improvements and modifications to leased premises typically include:
- Cosmetic Enhancements: Painting, flooring changes, or minor aesthetic modifications that do not impact the property’s structural integrity.
- Functional Upgrades: Installing new fixtures, upgrading appliances, or implementing technology upgrades.
- Structural Modifications: Adding or removing walls, renovating plumbing or electrical systems, or expanding room dimensions.
- Accessibility Adjustments: Installing ramps, handrails, or other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
- Energy Efficiency Measures: Adding insulation, upgrading HVAC systems, or incorporating renewable energy solutions like solar panels.
- Safety and Security Enhancements: Installing surveillance systems, upgrading locks or access controls, or implementing fire safety improvements.
- Common Area Improvements: Landscaping upgrades, installation of recreational facilities, or improvements to communal spaces.
- Environmental Sustainability Initiatives: Water conservation measures, recycling programs, or the use of sustainable materials in renovations.
Legal Considerations
Tenants should discuss any intended alterations with the landlord beforehand and may need to agree to restore the property to its original condition or cover restoration costs. When they leave the premises, unauthorized modifications typically become the landlord’s property because anything attached to the rental property is considered a “fixture,” which cannot be removed.
Disputes regarding fixtures can be complex. Courts consider factors such as physical attachment, structural changes affecting property use or appearance, and landlord consent. Written agreements or discussions between the landlord and tenant may also influence decisions.
- Cable TV Access: Landlords aren’t obliged to provide it if absent. They’re also not required to grant access to a specific cable company. Exclusive contracts with cable providers are prohibited by FCC rules.
- Satellite Dishes and Antennas: Tenants should ensure devices remain within rented space. Landlords cannot unreasonably impair the installation, maintenance, or use of covered devices, though they may impose safety or historical preservation restrictions. Disputes can be mediated or resolved through FCC guidance or legal action if necessary.
- Central Satellite Dishes or Antennas: Landlords may sometimes provide central satellite dishes or antennas for all tenants, which enables them to restrict individual installations if tenants receive comparable programming, signal quality, and costs. Landlords may require the removal of individual devices if installing a compliant central antenna.
Improvements and Modifications Lease Addendum Sample
Download the improvements and modifications lease addendum template below in PDF or Word format.
