Tenant wants girlfriend removed from lease

[Ben Wenger]

I have single family house and moved a guy and girl in a few months ago. They are on a one year lease. Now they are breaking up and she is moving out and he wants her name off the lease and the locks changed.  Any advice on how to handle this situation would be appreciated. Thanks in advance 

[Nathan Gesner]

I don't recommend forcing the girlfriend to remain on because it serves no purpose other than to set them both against you. If the boyfriend can afford to live there alone, let her go. I have a simple form for this that says something along these lines:

• The original terms of the Agreement, addendum, and change of terms will remain in effect for the remaining Tenant(s).
• Departing tenant is no longer responsible for the terms of the agreement as of (enter date). Departing tenant also forfeits all rights to access the property, except as an occasional guest.
• Release of the Security Deposit, or any portion thereof, will not take place until all Tenants vacate. Any reimbursement of funds between the departing Tenant and remaining Tenants regarding the Security Deposit is to be settled between them.
• After termination of the Agreement, Landlord will settle all Security Deposit funds with the remaining Tenant(s) on the Rental Agreement.

There is more to it than that, but this gives you an idea. Release the tenant from all rights and responsibilities, making sure they know they will not get back any portion of the deposit. I recommend conducting an inspection to verify there is no damage before releasing anyone. Then make sure the remaining tenant understands they are responsible for any damages from that day forward.

If the tenant wants the locks changed, make him do it on his dime and make sure it is done by a professional. Also ensure he provides you with a copy of the keys.