Free Lease Addendum Templates: Pet, Roommate, Renewal, and 8 More (2026)

An addendum modifies or supplements an existing lease without replacing it. Every addendum must reference the original lease, be signed by all parties, and be attached to the lease as an exhibit. This page provides 11 complete addendum templates with sample language, state variations, and common mistakes.

Updated 10 April 2026

Table of Contents

1. Pet Addendum2. Roommate / Co-Tenant Addendum3. Lease Renewal Addendum4. Early Termination Addendum5. Smoking and Vaping Addendum6. Parking Addendum7. Military Clause (SCRA) Addendum8. Mold Disclosure Addendum9. Lead Paint Disclosure10. Bed Bug Addendum11. Property Alteration Addendum

1. Pet Addendum

When You Need It

Any time a tenant will keep a pet on the premises. This is the most commonly needed addendum, as 72% of renters own pets (AVMA 2024).

Sample Language

This Pet Addendum is attached to and made part of the Residential Lease Agreement dated [DATE] between [LANDLORD] and [TENANT] for the property at [ADDRESS]. Tenant is permitted to keep the following pet(s) on the Premises: Pet 1: [Type] [Breed] [Name] [Weight] [Age] [Color/Description] Vaccination records: [Current / Attached] Pet Deposit: $[AMOUNT] (refundable, subject to damage deductions) Monthly Pet Rent: $[AMOUNT] Tenant agrees to: (a) keep pet(s) current on all vaccinations and provide proof upon request; (b) clean up after pet(s) immediately in all common and outdoor areas; (c) prevent excessive noise from pet(s); (d) maintain liability insurance covering pet-related incidents; (e) repair or pay for any damage caused by pet(s) beyond the pet deposit amount; (f) comply with all local animal control ordinances including leash laws and breed restrictions. Landlord may revoke pet permission with 30 days written notice if Tenant violates any term of this addendum. This restriction does not apply to service animals or assistance animals as defined under the Fair Housing Act and HUD guidelines.

State Variations

California: pet deposits are included in the 1-month total deposit cap under AB 12. No separate pet deposit allowed. New York: HSTPA prohibits pet deposits entirely (included in 1-month cap). North Carolina: pet deposits are separate from and in addition to the security deposit (N.C. Gen. Stat. Section 42-53).

Common Mistakes

  • Charging a deposit for service or assistance animals (Fair Housing violation)
  • Not specifying breed, weight, and number limits
  • Failing to require liability insurance for dog breeds that homeowner's insurance may exclude
  • Not addressing outdoor waste cleanup responsibility

2. Roommate / Co-Tenant Addendum

When You Need It

When adding a new tenant to an existing lease mid-term, or when multiple unrelated adults will share a unit. Clarifies each person's liability.

Sample Language

This Co-Tenant Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. The following individual is added as a co-tenant effective [DATE]: [NEW TENANT NAME], [DOB], [SSN last 4 digits for screening]. All co-tenants are jointly and severally liable for the full rent amount and all lease obligations. If one co-tenant vacates, the remaining co-tenant(s) are responsible for the full rent. The vacating co-tenant must provide [30] days written notice and remains liable through the notice period. The security deposit will not be partially refunded until all co-tenants have vacated. Landlord has the right to approve or deny any proposed co-tenant based on standard screening criteria (credit, income, background). A non-refundable screening fee of $[AMOUNT] applies.

State Variations

New York: landlords of buildings with 4+ units cannot unreasonably withhold consent to add a roommate (Real Property Law Section 235-f). San Francisco: tenants have the right to replace departing roommates. Most other states allow landlords to approve or deny new co-tenants.

Common Mistakes

  • Not requiring the new co-tenant to pass the same screening as original tenants
  • Failing to specify joint and several liability
  • Not addressing what happens to the deposit when one roommate leaves
  • Allowing roommate additions verbally instead of in writing

3. Lease Renewal Addendum

When You Need It

When extending an existing lease for another term, especially if terms (rent, rules) are changing. Simpler than signing a completely new lease.

Sample Language

This Lease Renewal Addendum extends the Lease Agreement dated [ORIGINAL DATE] for [ADDRESS]. The original lease term ending [END DATE] is hereby extended for an additional [12] months, commencing [NEW START DATE] and terminating [NEW END DATE]. Revised terms effective upon renewal: - Monthly rent: $[NEW AMOUNT] (previously $[OLD AMOUNT]) - [List any other changed terms] All other terms and conditions of the original Lease Agreement remain in full force and effect. Both parties acknowledge that the security deposit of $[AMOUNT] remains on file and no additional deposit is required for this renewal. If neither party provides written notice of non-renewal at least [60] days before the new termination date, this lease shall convert to a month-to-month tenancy.

State Variations

States with rent control (California AB 1482, Oregon, NYC) limit the rent increase at renewal. California: max 5% + CPI (capped at 10%). Oregon: max 7% + CPI. New York rent-stabilized units: increase set by the Rent Guidelines Board annually.

Common Mistakes

  • Not specifying the new rent amount clearly
  • Forgetting to update the termination date
  • Failing to give adequate notice before renewal deadline
  • Not referencing the original lease agreement

4. Early Termination Addendum

When You Need It

When either party wants the option to end the lease before the natural expiration. Commonly requested by tenants with job uncertainty or landlords planning to sell.

Sample Language

This Early Termination Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. Either party may terminate this Agreement before its expiration by providing [60] days written notice and meeting the following conditions: Tenant Termination: Tenant shall pay an early termination fee of [2 months' rent / $AMOUNT] and the Premises must pass a move-out inspection showing no damage beyond normal wear and tear. Tenant remains responsible for rent through the end of the notice period. Landlord Termination: Landlord shall provide [90] days written notice and pay a relocation fee of [1 month's rent / $AMOUNT] to the Tenant. Both parties acknowledge that the early termination fee is a negotiated amount representing a reasonable estimate of damages, not a penalty.

State Variations

Most states require landlords to mitigate damages by attempting to re-rent. California (Civil Code Section 1951.2), Texas (Property Code Section 91.006), and Virginia mandate mitigation. Some states limit early termination fees to a "reasonable" amount.

Common Mistakes

  • Setting the fee too high (courts may void it as an unenforceable penalty)
  • Not including the landlord's duty to mitigate
  • Failing to specify the notice period
  • Not addressing what happens to the security deposit upon early termination

5. Smoking and Vaping Addendum

When You Need It

Any rental property. Smoke damage costs $3,000-$15,000 to remediate (painting, carpet replacement, HVAC cleaning, ozone treatment). A clear addendum protects the property and other tenants.

Sample Language

This Smoking Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. Smoking of any substance (tobacco, marijuana, e-cigarettes, vaping devices) is strictly prohibited inside the Premises, including all rooms, balconies, patios, and garages. Smoking is prohibited within [25] feet of any building entrance, window, or ventilation intake. Designated smoking area (if any): [describe location, or state "No designated smoking area is provided"]. Violation Consequences: - First violation: Written warning - Second violation: $[250] fine - Third violation: Lease termination with [30] days notice Tenant shall be responsible for all remediation costs resulting from smoking damage, including but not limited to: repainting ($300-$500/room), carpet replacement ($800-$2,000/room), HVAC cleaning ($300-$500), and ozone treatment ($200-$600). These costs shall be deducted from the security deposit, with any excess billed directly to Tenant.

State Variations

California: landlords can prohibit smoking in multi-unit buildings (Civil Code Section 1947.5). HUD prohibits smoking in all public housing nationwide (effective 2018). Some cities (San Francisco, Portland) have ordinances restricting smoking in multi-unit buildings. Marijuana: legal in many states but landlords can still prohibit it on their property.

Common Mistakes

  • Not including vaping and e-cigarettes (smoke-free does not automatically mean vape-free)
  • Not addressing marijuana in states where it is legal recreationally
  • Failing to specify the distance from buildings
  • Not documenting remediation costs in the lease

6. Parking Addendum

When You Need It

Any property with assigned parking, especially multi-unit buildings. Prevents disputes over spaces, vehicle types, and abandoned vehicles.

Sample Language

This Parking Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. Tenant is assigned parking space(s): [Number/Location]. Additional spaces may be available for $[AMOUNT]/month. Vehicle Registration: Only registered, insured, operational vehicles may be parked in assigned spaces. Tenant must provide current registration and insurance information for each vehicle. Prohibited: Commercial vehicles over [10,000] GVW, boats, trailers, RVs, non-operational vehicles, and vehicles leaking fluids. EV charging: [available at designated spaces / not available / tenant may install at own expense with landlord approval per [STATE] law]. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed at the vehicle owner's expense after [48] hours notice. Tenant is responsible for oil stains and damage to the parking surface caused by their vehicle(s).

State Variations

California: landlords must allow EV charger installation upon request in multi-unit buildings (Civil Code Section 1947.6). Colorado: HB23-1218 provides similar EV charger rights. Some cities have overnight parking restrictions that affect rental properties.

Common Mistakes

  • Not specifying which spaces are assigned vs. first-come-first-served
  • Failing to address EV charging (increasingly required by state law)
  • Not including the towing process and notice period
  • Ignoring guest parking policies

7. Military Clause (SCRA) Addendum

When You Need It

Any lease involving a service member, or any lease in areas near military installations. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is federal law and overrides any contrary lease term.

Sample Language

This Military Clause Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. If Tenant is or becomes a member of the United States Armed Forces (active duty, Reserve, or National Guard), the following provisions apply: 1. Lease Termination: Tenant may terminate this Agreement by providing written notice accompanied by a copy of official military orders (PCS, deployment of 90+ days, or discharge/release from active duty). Termination is effective 30 days after the next rent payment date following delivery of notice. 2. No Early Termination Fee: No early termination fee, penalty, or charge of any kind shall apply to a military termination under SCRA. 3. Deployment Provisions: If Tenant is deployed for 90 or more days, Tenant may request a lease modification to reduce rent or allow subletting during the deployment period. Landlord shall make reasonable accommodations. 4. Security Deposit: Shall be returned per state law following the standard move-out inspection process. This addendum complies with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. Sections 3901-4043).

State Variations

SCRA is federal and applies in all 50 states. California extends additional protections to National Guard members (Military and Veterans Code Section 409.1). Virginia prohibits any lease penalty for military termination. Texas and North Carolina have additional state-level military tenant protections.

Common Mistakes

  • Attempting to charge an early termination fee (unenforceable under SCRA)
  • Not accepting deployment orders as valid termination notice
  • Requiring more notice than the 30-day statutory period
  • Not understanding that SCRA applies to all branches including Reserve and Guard

8. Mold Disclosure Addendum

When You Need It

Any property with known mold history, properties in humid climates, and properties in states that require mold disclosure (California, Indiana, San Francisco).

Sample Language

This Mold Disclosure Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. Landlord Disclosure: [Landlord has no knowledge of mold or mold conditions on the Premises / Landlord discloses the following known mold conditions or history: (describe, including dates and remediation performed)]. Tenant Responsibilities: Tenant shall promptly notify Landlord in writing within 24 hours of discovering any water intrusion, visible mold growth, musty odors, or persistent condensation. Tenant shall maintain adequate ventilation by using exhaust fans during bathing and cooking, and shall promptly clean minor condensation on windows and bathroom surfaces. Landlord Responsibilities: Landlord shall respond to all mold reports within 48 hours and arrange professional inspection within 7 business days. Landlord shall remediate confirmed mold at Landlord's expense unless the mold resulted from Tenant's failure to maintain ventilation or report water intrusion. Both parties acknowledge that mold can pose health risks and that timely reporting is essential.

State Variations

California: mold disclosure required (Health and Safety Code Section 26147-26148). San Francisco: mandatory mold inspection before renting. Indiana: mold disclosure required (IC Section 32-31-1-21). Texas: no mold-specific statute but landlords can be liable under habitability doctrine. Most states without mold statutes apply the implied warranty of habitability.

Common Mistakes

  • Not disclosing prior mold remediation
  • Failing to define response timelines
  • Not specifying tenant ventilation responsibilities
  • Omitting the reporting obligation

9. Lead Paint Disclosure

When You Need It

Mandatory for all residential properties built before 1978. Federal law requires this. The fine for non-compliance is $19,507 per violation.

Sample Language

DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION ON LEAD-BASED PAINT AND/OR LEAD-BASED PAINT HAZARDS Property: [ADDRESS] Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (check one): [ ] Landlord has no knowledge of lead-based paint and/or lead-based paint hazards in the housing. [ ] Landlord has knowledge of the following lead-based paint and/or lead-based paint hazards: [describe known conditions, testing results, and remediation history]. Records and Reports (check one): [ ] Landlord has no reports or records pertaining to lead-based paint in the housing. [ ] Landlord has provided the following records or reports: [list documents provided]. Tenant Acknowledgment: [ ] Tenant has received the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." [ ] Tenant has received all available records and reports. [ ] Tenant has been given a [10]-day opportunity to conduct a lead-based paint inspection at Tenant's expense. [ ] Tenant has elected [to / not to] conduct an inspection. Certification: The parties certify the accuracy of their statements in this disclosure. Landlord: _____________ Date: _______ Tenant: _____________ Date: _______

State Variations

This is federal law (42 U.S.C. Section 4852d, 24 CFR Part 35) and applies in all 50 states for pre-1978 properties. Massachusetts adds: lead paint must be removed before renting to families with children under 6 (MGL Chapter 111 Section 197). Some states require testing, not just disclosure.

Common Mistakes

  • Not providing the EPA pamphlet (required, not optional)
  • Not giving tenants the 10-day inspection opportunity
  • Failing to keep signed copies for 3 years (federal requirement)
  • Assuming post-1978 properties are exempt (known lead paint still requires disclosure)

10. Bed Bug Addendum

When You Need It

Recommended for all multi-unit properties. Required in states with bed bug disclosure laws (New York, Maine, some cities). Bed bug treatment costs $1,000-$5,000 per unit.

Sample Language

This Bed Bug Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. Landlord Disclosure: [The Premises has no known history of bed bug infestation / The following bed bug history exists: (describe, including treatment dates and methods)]. Tenant Responsibilities: Tenant shall report any suspected bed bug activity (bites, visible insects, blood spots on bedding, molted skins) to Landlord in writing within 24 hours of discovery. Tenant shall cooperate with all inspection and treatment procedures, including preparing the unit as directed by the pest control provider. Tenant shall not introduce used furniture, mattresses, or bedding without inspection. Treatment Responsibility: Landlord shall arrange and pay for professional treatment if bed bugs are detected within [30] days of move-in. After 30 days, treatment responsibility shall be determined based on the inspection findings. If the infestation is traced to Tenant's actions (introducing infested furniture), Tenant shall bear the cost.

State Variations

New York: landlords must disclose bed bug history for the past year (NYC Admin Code Section 27-2018.1). Maine: landlords must disclose known bed bug activity. Some cities (Chicago, San Francisco) have specific bed bug ordinances requiring landlord-funded treatment regardless of origin.

Common Mistakes

  • Not disclosing prior infestations
  • Making tenants pay for treatment without investigating the source
  • Not specifying the 24-hour reporting obligation
  • Failing to address prevention (used furniture restrictions)

11. Property Alteration Addendum

When You Need It

When the tenant requests permission to make changes beyond cosmetic (painting, drilling, installing fixtures, modifying landscaping). Protects the property while accommodating reasonable tenant requests.

Sample Language

This Property Alteration Addendum is attached to the Lease Agreement dated [DATE] for [ADDRESS]. Tenant requests approval for the following alteration(s): Description: [detailed description of proposed work] Estimated cost: $[AMOUNT] Contractor (if applicable): [Name, License Number] Timeline: [Start date - Completion date] Landlord Approval: [ ] Approved [ ] Approved with conditions [ ] Denied Conditions: [specify any conditions] Terms: 1. All work must comply with local building codes and obtain required permits. 2. Licensed contractors are required for electrical, plumbing, and structural work. 3. Tenant shall provide proof of contractor insurance before work begins. 4. Upon lease termination, Tenant shall [restore the Premises to its original condition at Tenant's expense / leave the alteration in place as it becomes the property of Landlord]. 5. Landlord reserves the right to inspect work in progress with 24 hours notice. 6. Tenant is responsible for all costs including permits, materials, labor, and any necessary restoration.

State Variations

Fair Housing Act: landlords must allow reasonable disability-related modifications at the tenant's expense. California Civil Code Section 1954.52 provides additional protections for disability modifications. Some states require landlords to allow minor modifications (curtain rods, picture hooks) without an addendum.

Common Mistakes

  • Not specifying whether the alteration stays or must be removed at move-out
  • Failing to require licensed contractors for major work
  • Not addressing permit requirements
  • Refusing disability modifications (Fair Housing violation)

Add These to Your Lease

Use the free lease agreement template as your base document, then attach the relevant addendums from this page. Every addendum should reference the original lease date and property address. Both landlord and tenant must sign each addendum.