Welcome to the Kazi Law Firm! We are a boutique law firm steeped in Texas tradition personifying the warmth and congeniality consistent with southern hospitality. We believe in preserving integrity and professionalism with true Texan charm, staying true to our roots, while providing essential, affordable legal services to all. Located just north of Dallas, Texas in the rapidly growing suburb of Frisco; the Kazi Law Firm concentrates on contracts drafting and review, immigration law, will & estates, real estate law, landlord, tenant, mediation, and general business law needs.
We are often asked what the proper way is to add a roommate to an existing lease agreement? Sometimes, a newly-engaged tenant wants to move a fiancé into the home. Well, there is a right way and a wrong way to achieve this goal. First and foremost, communication with your landlord is key. It is important to communicate this intention with the landlord so as not to violate the existing lease agreement.
Needless to say, leasing is a popular way for people to find suitable housing at affordable prices. A residential lease agreement generally lasts for a period of 12 months, but they can be set for any term the landlord and tenant agree upon. One of the challenges of an extended lease for the tenant is if an event occurs that requires them to take on a roommate, change a roommate, or add a person to the lease, such as a fiancé.
It is not uncommon for a landlord to increase the monthly rent when another person occupies the premises due to increased wear and tear on the property. It is also fairly common for a landlord to request additional security deposit money if a roommate is added to the lease agreement.
Generally speaking, many landlords do not have a problem adding a roommate or fiancé to an existing lease agreement, especially if the potential roommate has excellent credit and references. The addition of another tenant helps to ensure that there are broader resources to pay the rent on time. However, be prepared that the landlord may take this opportunity to increase the rent.
As with any written contract, be sure to read the lease agreement in its entirety and be in close contact with your landlord about the possibility of adding a second person the the lase. You should also be prepared to present your landlord with references, credit score, and background/criminal check for the potential roommate. The more credit worthy and reliable a prospective additional tenant is, the more likely the landlord will agree to the revised arrangement.
I built my law practice on the premise of being a life raft in a sea of sharks. I want to be an advocate for those that have been wronged and are too intimidated to seek help. My firm is here to explore your options, guide you through your legal journey, and give you that safe space to ask questions! There’s no such thing as a stupid question…Only the ones you don’t ask. So, my question to my clients is not “do you have any questions?” But rather “what questions do you have?”
As always, the Kazi Law Firm is standing by to help you in your time of need. Don’t hesitate to contact us today. We specialize in real estate law, landlord-tenant disputes, immigration, and wills & estate planning. Family is at the core of our practice. Just as we treat our family with respect and understanding, we treat yours. Come join the Kazi Law Firm family today!
Why swim alone in shark-infested waters when you don’t need to?
