Change lease to include more people Milwaukee

[Carlton B.]

In December individual signs lease for himself and 3 children for a 3 bed 1 ½ bath. I met the whole family at lease signing.

In January Tenant Says children will not be living in the home. The tenant states he has 2 brothers who are living in the unit and would like to stay. He wants them on the lease.

I would not normally rent to three adults. I’m thinking I should have the two brother fill out applications and if they pass have all three sign new lease and not extend time. The 3rd adult will add $50.00 dollars to the total rent. If one or both do not pass the background check give them a time limit to move. Does this seem reasonable and legal?

[Kelly G.]

Sounds like a "bait n switch" to me!  I'm guessing the 'brothers' will not pass your screening process.  

I don't quite see how "would not normally rent to 3 adults" is discrimination on familial status . . . you didn't say "3 brothers", you did not specify marital status etc - you just said "adults" - though that could/would be "age" discrimination.  I too have a 3/1.5 in Mke and have been 'nervous' about 4 adults - fortunately they did not actually apply!

I'm no expert (really a rookie) but have been doing my own tenant search and screening of late.  It would seem your original tenant already broke the lease agreement if your agreement specifies how long "guests" can stay (perhaps that's obvious).  I would definitely screen each person per your normal process; enforce the lease if there is a 'guest' clause and have them move out until screening is done.  

I'm sure that sounds much simpler that it will be!

Good Luck!

Kelly