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As a Denver, CO landlord, you likely already know how important leases are. A well-drafted lease is essential for protecting your legal rights.
Unfortunately, even the best lease agreement is a static contract. In some cases, you may want to add policies that your lease doesn't cover. This can relate to pet ownership, lawn care, roommate expectations, and so on.
In situations like these, your best bet is to add a residential lease addendum. This lease addendum guide will help you do it with minimal effort!
Look for Templates
First, avoid writing a lease addendum from scratch. This could take up a lot of time and could lead to mistakes that may affect your legal rights. Instead, look for an addendum template and edit it to fit your needs.
Keep in mind that your addendum should look and sound like the original lease. Whenever possible, use the same font, margins, and writing style. You should also stick with the usual terms associated with these contracts.
Reference the Lease
When it comes to how to draft an addendum, your first step is the title. It should include the word "addendum" and reference the original residential lease agreement. This will help connect the two documents.
Next, write an introductory paragraph. The paragraph should state that the purpose of the addendum is to modify the original lease. This will let your tenant know what to expect from it and help you avoid any disputes.
Make the Modifications
Now is the time to describe the amendments you're making. Use clear and specific language to outline any changes or additions. Add as much detail as you can to leave no ambiguity regarding your modifications.
Identify the Parties
According to Denver leasing laws, you'll need to identify the parties to the addendum. On top of including the parties' names, you can also include other identifying information, e.g. the address of the property.
Discuss Possible Conflicts
There's a good chance your addendum will contradict the original lease in some way. In this case, note that the addendum will supersede the lease. You can also state that the other terms of the lease remain in full effect.
Add a Sign and Date Section
Finish the addendum by including the sign and date section. The date is important because it states when the terms of the addendum will become effective. Without it, the addendum could be too ambiguous.
The signature block should include sections for both parties. Without both signatures, the addendum won't be legally binding. Before signing, consider consulting a lawyer to ensure you can enforce the document.
Writing a Residential Lease Addendum
For a document that's only one to two pages long, a residential lease addendum can be surprisingly complex. Follow these lease addendum tips to ensure your document is clear and legally sound!
Need help writing a lease addendum? At Laureate, Ltd., we've helped manage over 1000 rental properties in Denver and nearby areas since 1982! Get in touch with us right now -- we prioritize lightning-fast response times!
