Tenant wants a roommate

[David Hald]

I've had a tenant in place since 12/2019, now PM is asking if another tenant can move in (a friend of current tenant, they say).

What should I require legally from this person, apart from his personal details? Separate lease? Separate deposit? Extra rent?

I lowered rent and negotiated with current tenant to secure her, but part of my will to do so was that she was one person with no pets. I feel I should get something from this adjustment to our original lease, especially because it will necessarily mean greater use/mileage on the house.

Is there something else I'm not thinking about? 

Any thoughts would be helpful!

Please help!

[Theresa Harris]

@David Hald  What is included in the rent?  If there are any utilities that you are paying for, add the roommate, but tell her the rent goes up by a small amount to cover the extra costs.  Have them screened the same as you would for any tenant and have him added to her lease.  Then make sure the lease states that any remaining deposit goes back to her at the end of the lease and if he moves out, she is responsible for the rent.