Adding tenant to lease

[John J.]

My tenant of 6 months has notified me that he will be traveling and would like to have someone he knows move in while he is out and also mentioned that this person would like to take over the lease when the term is up. I don't want anyone living in the house who is not on the lease right? Also is it just a simple lease addendum I send?

Thanks
Ron

[Richard F.]

1) RIGHT!
2) NO!

Any adult that will occupy your unit should complete an application and be fully screened. Period.

All adults should be on the lease, with signatures (or initials) on every page, including separate house rules or other addenda. The more sigs you have, the more people can share in the responsibility when things go bad.

Remember, if they have possession, they are, arguably, a tenant- with or without a written agreement.