The problem with these bare bones leases is that they rarely have the provision you need to adequately protect yourself when certain things happen, such as needing to ask for attorneys fees for collections efforts, if your tenant claims that you made some oral modifications, etc.

Is this modification required to a new lease?

Hey @Marci SteinI definitely recommend you speak with an attorney if the situation calls for it, as I am not a lawyer, nor should this be considered legal advice.With that said, it is my understanding that your lease likely falls within the limitations of the Statute of Frauds and, as such, would technically require a written, fully-executed agreement between both parties in order to make binding modifications to the terms.Personally, I wouldn't stand for someone trying to pull a fast one on me like that.

Also, once you allow them to make modifications, you may get into a situation where they give themselves permission to push those boundaries with paint colors, items rehabbed, etc and then you are dealing with more issues.Sounds cold, but don't do favors for people with properties you own.  

For safety, we offer a few modifications even before they ask.

@Kenneth Davis - I would suggest a modification of your pre-screening and screening process.

If the answer to question (1) or (2) is "no," then the FHAct and Section 504 do not require a modification to a provider's "no pets" policy, and the reasonable accommodation request may be denied........Housing providers may ask individuals who have disabilities that are not readily apparent or known to the provider to submit reliable documentation of a disability and their disability-related need for an assistance animal.

If the answer to question (1) or (2) is "no," then the FHAct and Section 504 do not require a modification to a provider's "no pets" policy, and the reasonable accommodation request may be denied........Housing providers may ask individuals who have disabilities that are not readily apparent or known to the provider to submit reliable documentation of a disability and their disability-related need for an assistance animal. 

It even requires landlords to make reasonable exceptions in their policies and operations to afford people with disabilities equal housing opportunities and reasonable access-related modifications to their private living space, as well as to common use spaces (landlord is not required to pay for the changes.)I understand that the intent is not to discriminate based on the disability itself, however, since the tenant's income source is controlled by his disability, I think the HUD Office of Fair Housing would pursue fines and damages against a landlord who denied a tenant because "you cannot garnish wages from people on disability." 

The contract says: "Modification of the HAP contract is not permitted.