assignment of lease notice

Assignment Of Leases And Rents: Definition & Sample

Jump to section, what is an assignment of leases and rents.

The assignment of leases and rents, also known as the assignment of leases rents and profits, is a legal document that gives a mortgage lender right to any future profits that may come from leases and rents when a property owner defaults on their loan. This document is usually attached to a mortgage loan agreement.

Assignment of leases and rents allows lenders to a degree of financial protection in case a loan default occurs. This document is an agreement made between a borrower and a lender of mortgage loans. It often details an exact amount the lender will be entitled to if a default happens.

Common Sections in Assignments Of Leases And Rents

Below is a list of common sections included in Assignments Of Leases And Rents. These sections are linked to the below sample agreement for you to explore.

Assignment Of Leases And Rents Sample

Reference : Security Exchange Commission - Edgar Database, EX-10.9 10 d368735dex109.htm ASSIGNMENT OF LEASES AND RENTS , Viewed October 4, 2021, View Source on SEC .

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Lawyers with backgrounds working on assignments of leases and rents work with clients to help. Do you need help with an assignment of leases and rents?

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I received my undergraduate degree from Columbia University and my JD from UC Davis School of Law. I specialize in drafting, reviewing, and litigating contracts, general civil litigation, restraining orders, and family law. I have helped entrepreneurs form their business entities and grow their small businesses. This area of my practice has focused heavily on YouTubers, podcasters, and individuals creating unique online platforms. In the family law context, I have helped my clients petition for and obtain custody of their children and modify existing custody arrangements.

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Free Lease Assignment Agreement Template for Microsoft Word

Download this free Lease Assignment Agreement template as a Word document to easily assign a lease to another party with consent from the landlord.

Lease Assignment Agreement

THIS ASSIGNMENT OF TENANCY AGREEMENT dated this [Insert date]

[Insert name] (the “Assignor”)

– AND-

[Insert name] (the “Assignee”)

A. This is an agreement (the “Assignment”) to assign a residential tenancy agreement in real property according to the terms specified below.

B. The Assignor wishes to assign and transfer to the Assignee that tenancy agreement (the “Tenancy Agreement”) dated June 11, 2020, and executed by the Assignor as tenant and by _________________________ as landlord (the “Landlord”).

IN CONSIDERATION OF the Assignor agreeing to assign and the Assignee agreeing to assume the Tenancy Agreement for the Premises, and other valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, both parties agree to keep, perform and fulfill the promises, conditions and agreements below:

1. The Tenancy Agreement governs the rental of the following described premises (the “Premises”) to the Assignor: ______________________________________________

Assigned Tenancy Agreement

2. The Assignor assigns and transfers to the Assignee all of the Assignor’s right, title, and interest in and to the Tenancy Agreement and the Premises, subject to all the conditions and terms contained in the Tenancy Agreement.

Effective Date

3. This Assignment takes effect on June 11, 2020 (the “Effective Date”), and continues until the present term of the Tenancy Agreement expires on June 11, 2020.

Assignor’s Interest

4. The Assignor covenants that:

a. the Assignor is the lawful and sole owner of the interest assigned under this Assignment; b. this interest is free from all encumbrances; and c. the Assignor has performed all duties and obligations and made all payments required under the terms and conditions of the Tenancy Agreement.

Breach of Tenancy Agreement by Assignee

5. Consent to this Assignment will not discharge the Assignor of its obligations under the Tenancy Agreement in the event of a breach by the Assignee.

6. In the event of a breach by the Assignee, the Landlord will provide the Assignor with written notice of this breach and the Assignor will have full rights to commence all actions to recover possession of the Premises (in the name of the Landlord, if necessary) and retain all rights for the duration of the Tenancy Agreement provided the Assignor will pay all accrued rents and cure any other default.

Governing Law

7. It is the intention of the parties that this Assignment, and all suits and special proceedings under this Assignment, be construed in accordance with and governed, to the exclusion of the law of any other forum, by the laws of the State of New South Wales, without regard to the jurisdiction in which any action or special proceeding may be instituted.

Miscellaneous Provisions

8. This Assignment incorporates and is subject to the Tenancy Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto, and which is hereby referred to and incorporated as if it were set out here at length. The Assignee agrees to assume all of the obligations and responsibilities of the Assignor under the Tenancy Agreement.

9. This Assignment will be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties, their successors, assigns, personal representatives, beneficiaries, executors, administrators, and heirs, as the case may be.

10. All rents and other charges accrued under the Tenancy Agreement prior to the Effective Date will be fully paid by the Assignor, and by the Assignee after the Effective Date. The Assignee will also be responsible for assuming and performing all other duties and obligations required under the terms and conditions of the Tenancy Agreement after the Effective Date.

11. There will be no further assignment of the Tenancy Agreement without the prior written consent of the Landlord.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Assignor and Assignee have duly affixed their signatures under hand and seal on this [Insert date]

SIGNED BY THE ASSIGNOR

_____________________________ Assignor: _________________________

in the presence of (Name of witness) _______________________

(Signature of witness) _____________________________

SIGNED BY THE ASSIGNEE _____________________________ Assignee: _______________________

in the presence of (Name of witness) ___________________

(Signature of witness) _______________________________

CONSENT OF LANDLORD

The Landlord in the above Assignment of Tenancy Agreement executed on [Insert date] consents to that Assignment. The Landlord also agrees to the Assignee assuming after [Insert date] the payment of rent and performance of all duties and obligations as provided in the Tenancy Agreement. Dated: [Insert date]

Landlord: _________________________

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Demystifying Assignment of Lease: Your Go-To Guide

LegalGPS : July 25, 2024 at 12:20 PM

When you’re talking about property leasing, it’s important to understand that there are a lot of terms and concepts that you may have never heard before. One of them is the assignment of lease, which refers to a situation where a tenant transfers their rights and responsibilities under the lease agreement to another party.

Assignment of Lease Template

Legal GPS templates are drafted by top startup attorneys and fully customizable.

What is an Assignment of Lease, and why is it so crucial?

An Assignment of Lease is a term you may have heard thrown around, especially if you're involved in rental properties. It’s a pretty important document. But what exactly is it? Well, in simple terms, an Assignment of Lease is an agreement where the original tenant of a property transfers their leases and all of its rights and obligations to a new tenant. Now, you might be wondering, "When would this scenario ever occur?"

Let's imagine you're a tenant who signed a three-year lease for an office space. However, two years in, you need to relocate due to unprecedented growth of your business. Instead of breaking the lease, you might choose to assign your lease to another business looking for office space. This means that you, as the original tenant, no longer have any obligations under the lease. The new tenant is now responsible for paying rent and complying with all of the terms of the previously signed agreement.

Now that you understand, let's get into the step-to-step guide on how to create an Assignment of Lease!

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Steps to Write an Assignment of Lease

Creating a thorough Assignment of Lease agreement doesn't need to be an overwhelming task. Simply follow these steps to ensure your agreement is both comprehensive and legally binding:

Step 1: Identify the Parties

The information of each party should be included. For the existing tenant (the assignor), make sure to include:

Full legal name or business name

Postal mailing address

Phone number and email address

Do the same for the new tenant (the assignee). Make sure all the information is up-to-date and accurate to avoid any unnecessary confusion or disputes. For example, if the assignor is a business, make sure they have updated their mailing address with the post office to reflect their new building location. If a party has multiple addresses, be sure to list them all.

Step 2: Specify the Lease

This section requires exact information from the original lease agreement, including:

Property address and description

Lease start and end date

A reference to the original lease agreement (for instance, a sentence like "the lease agreement dated...")

Remember to include a copy of the original lease as an attachment to ensure the assignee understands the terms they're adhering to. If not already included in the original lease agreement, be sure to add the following information: Description of rental property, Lease term (how long the lease is good for), Rent amount, and Security deposit amount.

Step 3: Detail the Assignment

State that the assignor is transferring all their interests and obligations in the lease to the assignee. Here, write something like:

"The Assignor hereby assigns, transfers, and conveys to the Assignee all of the Assignor's rights, title, and interest in and to the Lease, together with all the Assignor's obligations, liabilities, and duties under the Lease."

This means that the assignor is transferring all of their interests and obligations in the lease to the assignee. This includes any future rent payments, repairs and maintenance responsibilities, notices of default by either party, and so on.

Step 4: Landlord's Consent

Many leases require the landlord's consent to assign the lease. The assignor should request written consent from the landlord and include a clause like:

"The assignment of the lease is not valid unless and until the landlord provides written consent."

This is followed by a place for the landlord to affirm consent by signing or initialing. This is important because the landlord can elect to withhold consent and the assignment will not be valid. If this is the case, you may need to provide additional consideration for your landlord's assent (for example, an increase in rent).

Step 5: Assignee Acceptance

Include a statement in which the new tenant agrees to the assignment and the terms of the lease. It may look like:

"The Assignee hereby accepts this assignment, assumes all duties and responsibilities under the Lease, and agrees to perform all of the Assignor's obligations under the Lease."

You need to do this because the new tenant needs to have an affirmative acceptance of the assignment in order for it to be valid. This is typically done through a letter from the assignee stating that they agree to perform all of your obligations under the lease.

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Step 6: Signature and Date

Every binding legal document needs a date and a signature. Make sure that there is a proper place for the assignor and the assignee to sign and print their names, with a line for the date.

By following these clear, actionable steps, you'll be able to construct an effective Assignment of Lease agreement. Remember, every situation is unique, so adjust the template as necessary, being sure to include all relevant details.

Clear so far? Great! Now, let's focus on the tips to draft a perfect Assignment of Lease.

Tips to Draft a Perfect Assignment of Lease

Accurate Dates: Be sure to include the date when this agreement will take effect. Precision avoids any confusion about durations, when the assignee takes over, or when the assignor's obligations end.

Clear Terms: This document should restate the terms of the original lease. The assignee needs a clear understanding of what they're stepping into. Bit ambiguous? Think of it like this: the assignee should be able to step into the assignor's shoes comfortably.

Specify Rent Terms: Stating the rent amount, due dates, and method of payment in the assignment helps create a record of the agreed-upon rent terms, ensuring no misunderstanding arises in the future.

Specify the Term: The assignment should state how long the new lease lasts. For example, if the original lease is for one year, then the assignee will assume only a one-year term.

Specify Other Conditions: If there are other conditions in place—such as tenant improvements or utility allowances—then specify these too.

An assignment of lease doesn't have to be a formidable task to overcome. With a cautious and considered approach, these documents can be a smooth and seamless part of managing a successful lease transition.

Our contract templates can offer you even more support, empowering you towards crafting an excellent and individualized Assignment of Lease ready for your task. So why not take your next step towards leasing success and check them out today? Click here to get started!

Get Legal GPS's Assignment of Lease Template Now

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Lease Assignment Agreement Template

Used 4,908 times

This Lease Assignment Agreement was created to cement the relationship between an existing tenant and a new tenant. Now is the time to get your free copy.

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Prepared by:

Assignee Name: [Assignee.FirstName] [Assignee.LastName] ​

Company: [Assignee.Company] ​

Phone: [Assignee.Phone] ​

Email: [Assignee.Email] ​

Address: [Assignee.StreetAddress] [Assignee.City] , [Assignee.State] [Assignee.PostalCode] ​

Prepared for:

Assignor Name: [Assignor.FirstName] [Assignor.LastName] ​

Phone: [Assignor.Phone] ​

Email: [Assignor.Email] ​

Address: [Assignor.StreetAddress] [Assignor.City] , [Assignor.State] [Assignor.PostalCode] ​

This Lease Assignment Agreement (hereinafter referred to as the "Agreement") made and entered into this [Document.CreatedDate] by and between:

Name: [Assignor.FirstName] [Assignor.LastName] [Assignor.Company] (hereinafter referred to as " Assignor "), and

Name: [Assignee.FirstName] [Assignee.LastName] [Assignee.Company] (hereinafter referred to as " Assignee ")

Assignor and Assignee are hereinafter referred to as “ Parties ” collectively in this Agreement.

Details of the Lease

1. property address:.

The leased property is located at the following address: [Property.Country] [Property.State] [Property.StreetAddress] ​ [Property.City] [Property.Phone] .

2. Landlord:

The landlord of the Property is [Landlord.FirstName] [Landlord.LastName] [Landlord.Company] ​

The tenant of the Property is [Assignor.FirstName] [Assignor.LastName] [Assignor.Company] ​

The term of the lease is from (insert the date on which the lease was effective) to (insert the date when the lease ends as per the contract).

5. Purpose:

The Property is leased for the following purpose: (insert the purpose of leasing, for example, office space, business premises, residential property)

6. Rental amount:

The monthly rental amount is (insert rental amount in words) , and payable on the (insert the day, example, 7th, 15th) day of each month.

Affirmations

Assignor affirms that they have:.

Leased the Property described above from the landlord who is currently in valid possession of the Property;

Legal right and authority to sublease the Property and to enter into this Agreement;

Read and agree to the terms and conditions of this Agreement;

Not received any notice from the landlord or any other person or authority that the Assignor’s leasehold interest in the Property is in jeopardy; and

Is not in default of any of the terms and conditions of the Lease.

No improvements were made in the Property by the Assignor without prior authorization from the Landlord.

Assignee affirms that they have:

Read, understood, and agree to the terms and conditions of this Agreement;

Have the financial capacity to make all payments that may become due under the terms of the Lease; and

Understood that the acceptance of this Agreement does not and will not violate any agreement between the Assignee and any other person or entity.

1. Execution of Lease by Assignee:

This Agreement is not effective or binding until the Assignee has executed the Lease.

2. Notice to the landlord:

The Parties agree to give written notice of this Agreement to the landlord within (insert number of days, example: 3 days) days after the execution of this Agreement by the Parties.

3. Waiver of rights:

Assignor waives any rights they may have, including the right of redemption, re-entry, and demand for possession, against the Assignee if the Assignee does not make timely payments as per the Lease.

Rent and security deposit

Security deposit of the Property is currently (insert amount in numbers) and shall be paid as per the current lease agreement.

Rent of the Property is currently (insert amount in numbers) and shall be paid as per the current lease agreement.

Rent through the Agreement

Exactly (insert number, example: 3 days, 7 days) days after the date of this Agreement, the Assignor must pay to the Assignee any rent that may become due under the Lease up to the date on which the Assignee takes possession of the Property, which must be evidenced by a receipt or other written acknowledgment issued by the Landlord.

Termination and Non-Transferability

This Agreement may not be terminated except by mutual agreement of the Parties. Subsequently, the Assignee may not sublease, hypothecate, lend, sell, sublet, borrow on, pledge, or mortgage the Property.

Indemnification

The Assignee agrees to indemnify and hold the Assignor harmless from and against any claims, costs, losses, damages, liabilities, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees and costs) arising out of or in connection with any claims or suits based on allegations that arise.

Governing Laws

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed under the State of (state) laws.

Agreed and Accepted

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement as of the date first above written.

​ [Assignee.FirstName] [Assignee.LastName] ​

​ [Assignor.FirstName] [Assignor.LastName] ​

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WTO / Real Estate / Lease Agreements / Free Assignment of Lease Forms | Word – PDF

Free Assignment of Lease Forms | Word – PDF

Do you need to move out of your rental for a job or to go to school? Is your family expanding, or do you need to cut down on some of your bills to downsize? When you are in the middle of your lease, it may seem like you are stuck and can’t get out of the agreement. But an assignment of lease can be the trick you need to get ahead.

What is Assignment of Lease?

It is a tool that a tenant can utilize if they wish to get out of their lease ahead of time and assign it to another tenant.

Not all landlords will allow this, and if they do, they often have specific rules about how it can occur. When the landlord allows it, the tenant can move out of the rental and not worry about the penalties of breaking their lease.

Different names are used for an assignment of lease. Some of these include:

• Lease transfer
• Assignment agreement
• Lease assignment agreement
• Lease assignment form

No matter the name it goes under, it will serve the same purpose. This agreement will be useful to a tenant who wishes to leave the rental property ahead of the end of the lease. If they want to leave after six months and the lease is for one year, they may need to do a lease assignment with their landlord to help fill the rental before leaving.

This will help them solve this problem. With the permission of the landlord, the tenant can transfer their obligation under the lease over to another person. Once the landlord agrees , the new tenant (assignor ) can move in and follow the same rules that the original tenant ( assignee ) did, including property maintenance and any rent obligations. This will then release them from the obligations under the lease, allowing them to move and sign a new lease without a bad recommendation.

Most states require the landlord to be reasonable when it comes to a lease assignment. They do not have to accept each person you bring to them, especially if that person has a bad rental payment history or another problem that the landlord would not usually tolerate in their properties. But the landlord is not allowed to make things unnecessarily difficult, and they can’t refuse a tenant only to keep you on the property.

Both parties must have sufficient paperwork to help keep things organized. This should start with a properly drafted assignment so that all parties, including the landlord, new tenant, and old tenant, can understand which obligations are being transferred and who will be part of the new lease. This agreement can make the new tenant and landlord relationship run smoothly.

Types of Lease Assignment

The type of lease assignment the tenant will sign depends on the type of lease agreement the tenant has from the start. They may live in a residential home and need to do a lease assignment that works for that, or they could be a major business that will need assignment to leave the commercial property.

Residential lease assignment

When a tenant lives in an apartment, duplex, single-family home, or another place that they call home and need to move out before the end of the lease, they can do an assignment of lease. This allows them to find another tenant for the landlord, someone who will take their place and continue with the terms of the lease.

When the original tenant chooses to do a lease assignment, they will contact their landlord. The landlord can then screen the tenant to make sure their background, credit, and past rental history match up with who the landlord is comfortable renting out to. After these checks are done, the landlord can write the assignment and sign it with both the original and new tenant before the new agreement begins.

Commercial lease assignment

Some leases are between landlords and commercial businesses. The business utilizes the building in order to run their day to day operation. The business may decide that they no longer want to rent that property in the middle of their lease. The business can use the lease assignment form to help them get out of the lease with a new business in their place.

Assignment Vs. Sublease

Some tenants may be confused about the differences between a sublease and a lease assignment. Both of these will involve the original tenant finding someone new to take over the property, but they are different processes. If the tenant wants to do an assignment of lease, they need to do it the proper way to make sure it is done the right way.

The assignment will occur when the tenant works with the landlord to transfer their lease over to a new tenant. The new tenant must agree to take over the lease, keeping the property maintained and paying the rental amount each month. The previous tenant will no longer have their name on the lease and is free to move on to a new property without having to keep up with the obligations of the lease. The landlord will be part of this agreement as they do screenings and need to approve the new tenant.

The sublease will be when the tenant chooses to hand over the obligations of the lease to someone else through a subleasing agreement. The landlord is not part of this agreement, and they often do not approve of subleasing because it can allow an unknown person into the property without the landlord’s approval. The tenant will be held responsible for the original lease and all of its terms, so it can be a risky thing to work on.

You must look through the original lease agreement to see what rules are in place for subleasing or doing an assignment of lease. Most lease agreements will include whether one or both of these are allowed and will list out the specific steps that the tenant must follow for both of them.

What to Include

Each lease assignment will be a little different, and it may depend on the unique components that were in the original lease from the start.

Some of the items that you should include in your document include the following:

Type of lease

List out details about the type of lease that this letter should concern. The type of lease is usually either commercial or residential.

Location of property

Write out the physical location or complete address of the property to make sure there is no confusion in understanding the document. Make sure that the address includes the city name, the state, and the zip code along with it.

Parties’ details

There are three parties who will agree to the assignment of lease, including the landlord, the assignor or the original tenant, and the assignee or the proposed new tenant. Include relevant details about each individual, including their names and addresses.

Original lease term

The original tenant will need to include the terms of the original lease. They can pull out the lease and include information like the start and the end dates of that lease. The landlord could look these up, but it is helpful to have them in place to avoid confusion.

Start date of the lease transfer

Everyone should agree on the date that the lease transfer will occur. This will be the date that the current tenant need to be out of the property, and the new tenant will take over. Most leases will stipulate a certain amount of notice for the landlord, with 30-days being the standard. So make sure there is enough time for all parties involved to get ready for the change in the lease.

Assignor’s continuing liability

The lease assignment needs to list out the amount of liability the original tenant will have for the property and the lease when they move out. This will point out whether the assignor is still liable to the landlord after the lease is assigned.

Lead paint disclosure

Lead paint disclosure is only required in certain areas, but if it is, then the disclosure will also need to be included in the lease assignment.

This assignment also needs to have a copy of the master lease, or the original lease that the assignor and landlord worked on together. A copy needs to be given to the new tenant, so they understand the rules and obligations of moving into the rental.

Given below are lease templates:

Who is Liable in an Assigned Lease?

When the original tenant is looking to do an assignment of lease so they can move out, they need to take a look at who is liable. The original master lease will often give some clues about who will be liable here. If this is not listed out in the master lease, then the landlord will get to decide whether it is the original tenant or the new tenant who will be liable for the property.

The lease assignment can help to tell who is liable here. Make sure to list out the specific situations when the assignor or the assignee will be the ones responsible for property damages, fines for non-compliance, or missed rental payments. If the assignor has been legally released from this kind of liability, the landlord will not be able to come back at them later on for repayment or damages to the property.

It is possible that the assigner will be liable, even after they leave the property and do the assignment of the lease. In this situation, the landlord can get payments from the assignor if the assignee does not make payments on time or damages the property. Utilizing the assignment agreement can help make things safe. This can be done through a release from liability.

Many landlords do not want to release the assignor from their liability. This protects the landlord more because they get the chance to go after two people, rather than one, to help with late payments or damages. The tenant will need to understand the laws and regulations in their state and add in clauses to the assigned lease to help figure out whether they can excuse themselves from liability when they move out.

Even with a release from liability or a clause that releases the tenant if there is a change in ownership of the property, there are certain expenses that the original tenant may still be responsible for. Therefore , the assignor needs to be very careful about the assignee they choose for the property to ensure that they won’t have any large, unexpected fees to deal with later.

Important Considerations

There are a few things that the assignor needs to consider before they decide to write out an assignment for the lease.

Some of the things to consider include:

Get legal assistance from a professional

Before you write out an assignment of lease, you should consider talking to a lawyer who specializes in real estate or contracts in general. They will make sure that your letter is written legally and follows the rules of your lease. It is possible that the landlord will not be open to this agreement, but the real estate lawyer can help you see whether there are other options available. With the help of a real estate lawyer, you will be able to work with them to make sure the legal language protects the assignor and that the landlord will accept the agreement.

Give assignee a copy of the original lease

The asignee needs to receive a copy of the original lease to look over before they agree to the lease assignment. This helps them see the terms of the lease, the amount they owe each month, and any other requirements they must follow if they take over the lease. Therefore, attaching the master lease to your new lease assignment is necessary.

Review your local and state laws

Each area is a little different in terms of the rules you need to follow for your assignment of lease. In some areas, you may need to notarize the assignment of the lease or have witnesses when you sign, or it will not be legal. Having these witnesses will make it take a little more time, but will help prevent challenges to the validity of the document later.

The local and regional laws on renting, leasing, and real estate will vary, and the exact ones will tell you what can be included in the assignment and what your own legal obligations are. Even the language that you include or keep out of the lease assignment will vary based on where you live. So always look up the real estate laws in your area or work with a professional to make sure you do this right.

Is a Landlord’s Consent Required for a Lease Assignment?

As you take a look through your master lease, you will usually find a clause that states any lease assignments need to have the landlord’s written consent before they become effective. The landlord may also list other requirements that the tenant needs to follow in order to have a valid transfer of the terms of the original lease. You must follow the instructions in the original lease before proceeding with the assignment of the lease to make sure that the landlord will not fight it later.

You can’t have someone move into the apartment without telling your landlord. This can be a breach of the lease and can land you in some legal trouble. It is important to have the consent of the landlord. The landlord is not able to unreasonably withhold permission for this either. As long as you choose a good tenant to replace you (one who can pass the background and income check of the landlord), most landlords will agree to this, unless the exact terms of the original lease say it is not allowed.

In some jurisdictions, the landlord may consent to the change by not responding. If they do not respond to your assignment of lease by a certain date, the assignor is allowed to consider that consent and can proceed with the transfer, them moving out of the rental and the new tenant moving in. The assignor should check their local laws to see whether this applies to them or not.

If the landlord decides that they will not accept your assignment of lease, then ask for the reasons in writing. The landlord may not withhold consent based on the race or sex of your assignee, but they can refuse if the assignee has an eviction history or does not make enough income to pay the rent on that property.

Final Thoughts

There are different reasons why a tenant will need to leave their rental before the end of the lease, and they want a way to get out of it without breaking the terms of their lease or having larger fees imposed upon them. An assignment of lease is a great way to help with this. When approved, the landlord agrees to let the assignor put an assignee into the property, someone who will take over the lease and finish it out. By understanding a lease assignment, you could help keep the landlord happy while being able to move on to the next chapter of your life.

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Key terms and definitions

Obtaining landlord permission, tenants and subtenants responsibilities and liabilities, protecting the tenant from sublease pitfalls, putting the agreement in writing, alternatives to subleasing, final takeaways, templates and examples to download in word and pdf formats, tenants and subtenants obligations under a sublease agreement.

From finding a new job in another state to returning home to care for a sick family member to taking the big step of moving in with a new partner, many people find themselves in a situation where they need to cancel their existing lease so they can move somewhere else. Unfortunately, many landlords are reluctant to cancel existing leases, since that puts them in the position of potentially losing money while they look for a new tenant to fill the space. However, there is a solution that is workable for tenants while also being amenable to many landlords: a Sublease Agreement , also known as a sublet. There are many misconceptions about how subleases work and the responsibilities of people involved. This guide will walk through the most important terms to know and the main issues to be aware of when creating a sublease arrangement:

1. Differences between a sublease and an assignment

2. How to get permission from a landlord to sublet

3. Responsibilities and liabilities of the tenant and subtenant

4. Protective measures for the tenant

5. Sublease alternatives

There are many terms used in subleasing that are often used interchangeably and in confusing ways. However, the key distinction is between subleases and assignments . Both of these can be easily created, but have different legal implications and responsibilities for the involved parties that will be explored further in this guide.

What is a "sublease"?

A Sublease Agreement involves a transfer of less than all of the lease . For example, if a person living alone in a leased two bedroom apartment decides to rent out the spare bedroom to a new roommate, that would be a sublease. Or, if a person rents their whole apartment to someone for a couple of months while they travel for the Summer, but then return to the apartment in the Fall, that would also be considered a sublease. The main parties involved in a sublease are:

1. the original tenant , also known as the sublessor , who is the person who first rented the property and plans to rent the space to a new renter, and

2. the subtenant , also known as the sublessee , who is the person who rents their property from the sublessor.

What is an "assignment"?

An Assignment Agreement involves the entire remainder of the lease being transferred to a new tenant. For example, if someone was required to move to a new state for their job and a new tenant takes over the remaining six months on their lease, that would be called an assignment. The main parties involved in an assignment are:

1. the assignor , who is the person who originally rented the property, and

2. the assignee , who is the person renting the property from the assignor and taking over the remainder of their lease.

The first, and most important step, in arranging a sublease or assignment agreement is getting permission from the landlord. The landlord must consent to the arrangement and put this consent in writing using a Consent to Sublease form. If a tenant does not get the consent of the landlord, they leave both themselves and their subtenant or assignee in danger. The landlord would have the option of evicting the tenant, in the case of a sublease, or evicting the assignee, in the case of an assignment, for violation of the original lease agreement. Further, the landlord would feel less obligated to correct defects with the property, such as fixing leaky faucets or broken appliances, given that they do not have a valid agreement with the subtenant or assignee to provide these services.

Unless it says otherwise, when the lease prohibits tenants from subletting or assigning without their landlord's consent, ordinarily the landlord can arbitrarily refuse to permit a sublease or assignment according to their own discretion . However, some states and many leases now provide that the landlord must not unreasonably refuse to give consent to a sublease or assignment. In these instances, if the tenant is able to find a new person who will be at least as good a tenant -- able to pay rent on time, not play the stereo too loud, and follow the other agreements in the lease -- the landlord must accept that person as a subtenant.

If a person's lease prohibits them from assigning the lease without permission from the landlord but does not mention anything about subletting, would that person still be able to sublet the apartment to their friend? Yes, if the lease states only that an assignment is forbidden, the person would still be able to sublet their apartment. Conversely, if the lease prohibits only subletting, the tenant would be able to assign the lease without their landlord's approval. Both actions are prohibited only if the lease says that the tenant cannot sublease the property OR assign the lease without the landlord's consent. Note, however, that some cities, such as New York, have ordinances regulating subleases that take precedence over private agreements.

When subleasing an apartment, the original tenant should try their best to find a person who they think is trustworthy and will continue to pay the rent. The main reason for doing this is that the original tenant remains responsible for making sure the rent gets paid . The subtenant usually does not have to answer to the landlord, only the original tenant; the landlord can generally only sue the original tenant for the rent . If the subtenant does not pay the rent on time, the landlord can start eviction proceedings against the original tenant. If the subtenant owes several months of back rent, the original tenant is responsible for making sure it is paid. In the same way, the original tenant is responsible for making sure the rental is in good shape even if they are not currently living there.

What can a tenant do if they end up paying for the outstanding rent or damage a subtenant did to the property? The tenant can then go to the subtenant to ask that they be reimbursed for this money and take them to small claims court if they refuse to pay.

Unlike in a sublease, in an assignment, if the assignee fails to pay the rent, the landlord can go directly after the assignee for the unpaid rent . The landlord can also sue the assignee for any damage to the apartment that they are responsible for. Be aware, however, that the landlord can still sue the assignor, or original tenant, as well, even if the landlord consented to the assignment. The landlord has their choice of who to go to when they are looking to get paid.

Before subleasing a property or assigning a lease, the original tenant should make sure their subtenant or assignee is a responsible person who will pay the rent on time and will not damage the apartment. In a sublease or assignment, the original tenant essentially steps into the role of landlord to their subtenant or assignee. Therefore, it's important for them to protect themselves the same way a landlord would. When entering into sublease or assignment agreements, the original tenant often puts protective measures in place , including requiring payment of a security deposit, often equal to at least one month's rent, and putting the terms and agreements of the sublease in writing, including details like the length of the sublease or assignment, the amount of rent, when and to whom it must be paid, late charges, payment for damages, and so on.

Since the original tenant is acting as a landlord when subleasing, they are bound by some of the same laws that apply to the landlord . For example, each state has different rules and guidelines about the maximum amount that may be charged for a security deposit. In most cases, the original tenant may not reenter the property without giving appropriate notice to the subtenant. However, particular to assignments, those agreements often include a provision that the original tenant has the right to reenter the property and retake possession of it if the assignee fails to pay the rent. This gives the assignor some additional protection if the assignee defaults on the lease.

Once all parties, including the original tenant, subtenant, and landlord agree to the sublease or assignment, it should be put in writing. A written agreement works to protect all of the parties and their rights and obligations under the lease agreement . An oral agreement is enforceable in some states, but in all cases is subject to potential misunderstandings and challenges in court. A written Lease Assignment Agreement is usually relatively brief since it incorporates all of the provisions included in the original Residential Lease Agreement or Commercial Lease Agreement . A Sublease Agreement is more extensive and includes specifics related to when and to whom rent payments will be made, whether the subtenant will pay a security deposit to the original tenant and if so the method and amount of that payment, who will receive notices related to the rental. Once a Sublease Agreement or Lease Assignment Agreement has been put into writing, it should be signed by all involved parties. The Agreement must always be signed by the tenant and subtenant or assignee. However, the document may also be signed by the landlord to serve as a written record that the landlord grants their permission and is aware of the arrangement.

What if a tenant must move out of their rental property for some reason, say, six months before the lease expires, but they don't want to worry about the potential hassle and risk of finding a subtenant or assignee? The lease may give the tenant the right to cancel their lease by giving a certain amount of notice, usually two to three months. In a month-to-month lease, the tenant usually must give only thirty days notice. If the lease does not allow for this, the tenant has the option of finding a new tenant, subject to their landlord's approval, and the tenant's own trouble and expense. When the tenant finds a suitable person, they can ask their landlord to sign a document releasing them from their original lease . The landlord will then have the new tenant pay a deposit and sign a new lease. If the landlord agrees to do this, the original tenant will no longer be liable for the rent or acts of the new tenant. This solution is often acceptable to reasonable landlords.

Subleasing can be a great option for someone looking to move somewhere else, either temporarily or permanently, while they are in the middle of their current lease term. Here are the most important things to remember when setting up a sublease or assignment agreement:

• A sublease is a transfer of less than all of the lease; an assignment is a transfer of the entire remainder of the lease.
• The landlord must grant their permission for the sublease or assignment in writing if the tenant wants to protect themselves from future liability.
• In a sublease, the landlord can only go after the original tenant for rent or damages owed by the subtenant; in an assignment, the landlord can go after either the original tenant or the assignee.
• The original tenant can use measures such as collecting a security deposit to protect themselves in case the subtenant or asignee fails to pay the rent or causes damages.
• The best way to protect all involved parties is to put the agreement in writing.

About the Author: Malissa Durham is a Legal Templates Programmer and Attorney at Wonder .Legal and is based in the U.S.A.

• Sublease Agreement
• Lease Assignment Agreement
• Consent to Sublease

Legal Aspects of Commercial Lease Agreements

Commercial lease agreements are governed by a complex web of legal principles and provisions that outline the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. Effective negotiation, drafting, and execution require a thorough understanding of the legal framework, including lease agreement terms, rent and security deposit provisions, maintenance and repair obligations, use and occupancy restrictions, lease term and renewal options, dispute resolution and litigation, insurance and liability provisions, assignment and subleasing rights, and default and solutions provisions. A thorough grasp of these aspects is vital to mitigate potential risks and safeguard a mutually beneficial agreement; exploring these intricacies further can reveal additional nuances and considerations.

Table of Contents

Understanding Lease Agreement Terms

Legal Aspects of Leases

While traversing the complex landscape of lease agreements, it is pivotal to grasp the fundamental terms that comprise these contracts.

A thorough understanding of lease agreement terms is indispensable for effective lease negotiation and drafting. Lease agreements are complex documents that outline the rights and obligations of both the landlord and tenant.

They typically include terms such as lease duration, renewal options, termination clauses, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

It is necessary to carefully review and negotiate these terms to confirm that they align with the interests of the parties involved.

Lease drafting requires a deep understanding of the legal framework governing commercial leases, as well as the specific needs and goals of the tenant and landlord.

Rent and Security Deposit Provisions

Two pivotal components of a lease agreement are rent and security deposit provisions, which outline the financial obligations and responsibilities of both parties.

These provisions are paramount in establishing a clear understanding of the lease terms and avoiding potential disputes.

Rent provisions typically outline the base rent, rent escalation clauses, and the payment terms.

Rent escalation clauses may be tied to a specific percentage or index, guaranteeing that the rent increases over time.

It is fundamental to carefully review these provisions to verify that they align with the lessee's business needs and budget.

Security deposit provisions, on the other hand, outline the amount of deposit required, the interest rate applicable to the deposit, and the conditions for its return.

Deposit interest rates may vary depending on the jurisdiction, and it is imperative to understand the applicable laws and regulations.

A well-drafted security deposit provision can provide a level of protection for the lessor while also safeguarding the lessee's rights.

Maintenance and Repair Obligations

The lessee's maintenance and repair obligations are a critical aspect of a lease agreement, as they outline the responsibilities of each party in maintaining the leased property.

These obligations can substantially impact the condition and value of the property over the lease term.

In general, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structure and major systems, while the lessee is responsible for daily maintenance and minor repairs.

However, these responsibilities can be negotiated and allocated differently in the lease agreement.

It is vital to clearly define maintenance responsibilities and repair priorities to avoid disputes and guarantee the property remains in good condition throughout the lease term.

Use and Occupancy Restrictions

Certain aspects of a lease agreement can substantially impact the landlord-lessee relationship, and use and occupancy restrictions are among the most critical.

These restrictions dictate how the lessee can employ the leased premises, ensuring that the property is used in a manner consistent with its intended purpose and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Use clauses in a commercial lease agreement typically specify the permitted uses of the premises, such as retail, office, or industrial purposes.

Occupancy limits, on the other hand, govern the maximum number of people who can occupy the premises at any given time.

Other key aspects of use and occupancy restrictions include:

• Permitted hours of operation
• Any necessary licenses or permits required for the lessee's business
• Compliance with zoning ordinances and other local regulations
• Provisions for subleasing or assigning the lease to third parties

Lease Term and Renewal Options

Lease term and renewal options are fundamental components of a lease agreement, as they establish the duration of the lessee's occupancy and the circumstances under which it may be extended or terminated.

The lease duration, which can range from a few months to several years, determines the length of time the lessee has the right to occupy the premises. It is vital for both parties to carefully consider the lease term, as it can profoundly impact their respective business operations and financial commitments.

Renewal strategies are also a vital aspect of lease agreements. Options for renewal or extension can provide lessees with greater flexibility and security, allowing them to maintain their operations at the premises without interruption.

Landlords, on the other hand, may benefit from renewal options by securing long-term tenants and minimizing the risk of vacancy. Effective renewal strategies can include fixed-term renewal options, flexible renewal periods, and negotiated renewal terms.

Termination and Eviction Procedures

Termination and eviction procedures are critical components of lease agreements, as they outline the steps to be taken when a lease is terminated or an eviction becomes necessary.

A key aspect of these procedures is the provision of adequate notice, as specified in the lease termination notice, which varies by jurisdiction and type of tenancy.

The timeline for eviction procedures also depends on the specific circumstances, with expedited proceedings available in certain cases, such as non-payment of rent.

Lease Termination Notice

In the majority of jurisdictions, a formal notice is required to initiate the process of terminating a lease and potentially proceeding with eviction.

This notice serves as a precursor to the eviction process, providing the tenant with a specific timeframe to vacate the premises. The notice period varies depending on the jurisdiction and the terms of the lease agreement.

• A lease termination notice typically includes the effective date of termination, the reason for termination (if applicable), and any necessary instructions or next steps.
• The notice period may be specified in the termination clauses of the lease agreement or governed by local laws, such as 30 or 60 days.
• Failure to provide a proper notice can render the termination invalid, allowing the tenant to remain on the premises.
• In cases where the lease is approaching its expiration date, the landlord may need to provide a notice to terminate, even if the lease does not automatically renew, to avoid any ambiguity.

Eviction Procedures Timeline

A well-structured eviction procedure is crucial to guarantee that landlords can regain possession of their property in a timely and lawful manner.

The eviction process typically commences with the serving of a termination notice, followed by the filing of an eviction lawsuit if the tenant fails to vacate the premises.

The lawsuit process involves several stages, including the filing of a complaint, service of process, and a court hearing.

Depending on the jurisdiction, this process can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.

Landlords should be prepared for the associated eviction costs, including court filing fees, process server fees, and attorney fees.

It is crucial to engage experienced eviction lawyers who can navigate the legal complexities and minimize delays.

Throughout the eviction process, landlords must verify compliance with all applicable laws and regulations to avoid potential legal challenges and additional costs.

Dispute Resolution and Litigation

Dispute resolution and litigation are vital components of lease agreements, as they provide a framework for resolving conflicts that may arise between landlords and tenants.

Mediation and arbitration are alternative dispute resolution methods that can be employed to settle disputes outside of court, while court litigation remains an option for more contentious cases.

Understanding the process and procedures involved in each approach is pivotal for effectively managing disputes and minimizing potential losses.

Mediation and Arbitration

Resolving disputes through alternative methods is often a preferred approach in lease agreements, as it can reduce costs, minimize delays, and preserve business relationships.

Mediation and arbitration are two commonly used alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods that parties can agree to incorporate into their lease agreements. In mediation, a neutral third-party facilitates a negotiation between the parties to reach a mutually acceptable resolution.

Arbitration, on the other hand, involves a neutral third-party making a binding decision on the dispute. Both methods can help prevent dispute escalation and promote a more efficient resolution process.

• Mediation and arbitration can be used to resolve a wide range of disputes, including those related to rent, repairs, and termination of the lease.
• These alternative dispute resolution methods can be used in conjunction with other dispute resolution mechanisms, such as negotiation and expert determination.
• Mediation and arbitration can be made compulsory or voluntary, depending on the terms of the lease agreement.
• The use of mediation and arbitration can also be influenced by the jurisdiction in which the lease agreement is governed.

Court Litigation Process

In the event that alternative dispute resolution methods fail to yield a mutually acceptable outcome, parties may find themselves embroiled in court litigation.

This process involves formal court proceedings, where a judge or jury hears evidence and arguments from both sides to resolve the dispute.

In court litigation, each party must develop a thorough litigation strategy to present their case effectively.

This involves identifying key issues, gathering evidence, and preparing witnesses.

The litigation strategy should also take into account potential legal arguments, potential risks, and potential costs.

The court litigation process typically begins with the filing of a complaint, followed by the exchange of pleadings, discovery, and motions practice.

The parties may also engage in settlement negotiations throughout the process.

If a settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial, where the parties present their evidence and arguments to the judge or jury.

Throughout the court litigation process, it is crucial for parties to work closely with experienced legal counsel to safeguard their rights and interests are protected.

Insurance and Liability Provisions

Insurance and Liability Provisions govern the allocation of risk between the landlord and tenant, addressing potential losses or damages to the property, business, or individuals.

These provisions are vital in commercial lease agreements as they determine which party is responsible for insuring against specific risks and who is liable in case of losses or damages.

• Insurance requirements: The lease agreement should specify the types and limits of insurance coverage required, including property, liability, and business interruption insurance.
• Policy exclusions: The agreement should outline policy exclusions, such as intentional acts or natural disasters, to avoid disputes over coverage.
• Risk management: The parties should agree on risk management strategies, such as regular property inspections and maintenance, to mitigate potential risks.
• Indemnification: The lease should specify which party is responsible for indemnifying the other in case of losses or damages, and under what circumstances.

Assignment and Subleasing Rights

Flexibility in commercial lease agreements is pivotal, as business needs can change rapidly.

This flexibility is particularly significant when it comes to assignment and subleasing rights. Assignment clauses in commercial leases dictate the circumstances under which a tenant can assign their lease to a third party. These clauses can be either restrictive, prohibiting assignment without the landlord's consent, or permissive, allowing assignment with or without consent.

In some cases, the clause may require the landlord's consent, which may not be unreasonably withheld. It is paramount for tenants to carefully review assignment clauses to appreciate their rights and obligations.

Sublease restrictions, on the other hand, govern a tenant's ability to sublease the premises to another party. These restrictions can limit the duration, scope, or terms of the sublease.

Landlords may impose sublease restrictions to maintain control over the property and guarantee that subtenants meet certain standards. Tenants, however, may view these restrictions as limiting their ability to adapt to changing business needs.

A thorough understanding of assignment and subleasing rights is key for both landlords and tenants to negotiate and draft commercial leases that meet their respective interests.

Default and Remedies Provisions

Default and Solutions Provisions are a critical component of lease agreements, as they outline the circumstances under which a lease may be terminated and the available solutions for the non-breaching party.

Lease default triggers, such as non-payment of rent or failure to maintain the premises, are typically specified in the lease agreement. The corresponding solutions options for landlords and tenant cure rights are equally crucial, as they dictate the procedures and timelines for addressing defaults and resolving disputes.

Lease Default Triggers

Lease agreements typically contain default and solutions provisions that outline the circumstances under which a landlord may terminate the lease or take other corrective action.

These provisions define the landlord's treatments in the event of a tenant's default. Default triggers are vital components of a commercial lease agreement, as they specify the circumstances that constitute a breach of lease obligations.

Default triggers may include:

• Failure to pay rent or other charges
• Breach of lease covenants, such as use restrictions or maintenance obligations
• Material misrepresentations or fraud
• Insolvency or bankruptcy of the tenant

These triggers are critical because they enable the landlord to take prompt action to mitigate potential losses and protect their interests.

Landlord Remedies Options

Upon the occurrence of a default event, the landlord may exercise various solutions to protect their interests and mitigate potential losses.

The landlord's solutions options are typically outlined in the default and solutions provisions of the lease agreement. These provisions specify the landlord's strategies for addressing breaches, including non-payment of rent, unauthorized use of the premises, and failure to comply with lease terms.

The landlord's primary objective is to enforce the lease terms and guarantee continuity of the rental income stream.

To achieve this, the landlord may pursue various treatments, such as terminating the lease, filing a lawsuit for damages, or seeking injunctive relief to compel the tenant's compliance.

The landlord may also choose to accelerate the rent, thereby requiring the tenant to pay the remaining balance of the lease term.

Effective lease enforcement is critical to minimizing losses and protecting the landlord's investment.

Tenant Cure Rights

In the event of a default, a critical aspect of lease agreements comes into play: tenant cure rights, which provide the tenant with an opportunity to rectify the breach and avoid severe consequences.

These rights are vital in balancing the landlord's solutions with the tenant's need for fairness and flexibility.

• Tenant cure rights typically include a cure period, during which the tenant can rectify the breach and avoid termination of the lease.
• The cure period is usually specified in the lease agreement and can vary in length, but it is generally a reasonable period of time, such as 30 days.
• Waiver rights may also be included, allowing the landlord to waive the default and reinstate the lease if the tenant cures the breach.
• It is crucial for both parties to understand the tenant cure rights and solutions provisions to avoid disputes and guarantee a smooth resolution in the event of a default.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a commercial lease be oral instead of written.

While verbal promises may be enforceable, it is generally inadvisable to rely on an oral commercial lease, as it can lead to disputes and hinder lease enforcement, making it challenging to establish terms and resolve potential conflicts.

Can a Landlord Change the Lease Terms After Signing?

Absent a contractual provision, a landlord cannot unilaterally alter lease terms after signing; however, upon lease renewal, a landlord may propose changes, including rent increases, which the tenant may accept or reject, potentially triggering renegotiation or termination.

How Does a Lease Affect My Business Credit Score?

A commercial lease can impact your business credit score through credit checks, which may be performed by the landlord or lender to assess creditworthiness. Lease duration also plays a role, as longer terms may indicate greater financial stability, positively affecting credit scores.

Can I Cancel a Lease if the Landlord Doesn't Disclose?

In the absence of full disclosure, a tenant may be entitled to lease termination. Landlords have disclosure obligations, and failure to comply can be grounds for cancellation, allowing tenants to exit the lease agreement without penalty.

Can I Use a Residential Lease for a Commercial Property?

Employing a residential lease template for a commercial property is not recommended, as commercial leases have distinct differences in terms, clauses, and obligations, requiring tailored provisions that address unique commercial needs and concerns.

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What is the liability of an outgoing tenant under an 'old' lease following assignment? Is a landlord obliged to pursue the current tenant for any arrears before pursuing a former tenant or guarantor to a former tenant?

Obligations of an assignor tenant under an old lease.

The general rule is that where the lease is an old tenancy, the original tenant remains liable for the tenant covenants throughout the term of the lease, even if it has assigned its interest.

However, there are some exceptions:

the tenant will not be liable for any obligation arising from a variation of the lease made without its consent following Assignment , unless the variation was anticipated under the terms of the original lease, eg an increase in rent under the rent review clause (see Friends’ Provident Life Office v British Railways Board and section 18 of the Landlord and Tenant (Covenants) Act 1995 (LT(C)A 1995))

an assignee of an old tenancy is liable for those tenant covenants that touch and concern the land for as long as the lease remains vested in the assignee (privity

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Related legal acts:

• Land Registration Act 2002 (2002 c 9)
• Landlord and Tenant (Covenants) Act 1995 (1995 c 30)
• Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (1954 c 56)
• Law of Property Act 1925 (1925 c 20)

Key definition:

Tenant definition, what does tenant mean.

A person to whom a lease is granted.

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What documents or proof do I need to give to my landlord to get out of my lease if I am a victim?

To terminate your rental agreement under this law, you must give written notice to your landlord. The notice must:

• state a specific date that you want the lease to end (terminate);
• a civil order for protection ordering the abuser not to contact you; or
• a criminal no contact order; and
• be given to your landlord  at least 30 days before the termination date. 1

In addition, if you are a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault, you must also give your landlord a copy of a safety plan which meets all of the following requirements:

• it must be dated within 30 days of the date that you gave your landlord the written notice;
• it must be written by an accredited domestic violence or sexual assault program; and
• it must recommend that you move. 2

1 IN ST § 32-31-9-12(a), (b), (c)(1) 2 IN ST § 32-31-9-12(c)(2)

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This commercial lease assignment is between , an individual a(n) (the " Original Tenant ") and , an individual a(n) (the " New Tenant ").

On or about , the Original Tenant and (the " Landlord ") entered into a lease agreement (the " Lease ").

The Lease covers the commercial property located at ,    , and more particularly described as follows: (the " Premises "). The Premises contains feet of interior floor space.

Under section of the Lease, the Original Tenant is permitted to assign its interest in the Lease, with the consent of the Landlord.

The Original Tenant wishes to assign to the New Tenant its rights in, and delegate all of its obligations under, the Lease, and the New Tenant wishes to accept this assignment.

The parties therefore agree as follows:

1. ASSIGNMENT.

The Original Tenant assigns to the New Tenant of all its rights in, and delegates to the New Tenant all of its obligations under, the Lease. This transfer will become effective as of (the " Effective Date "), and will continue until the present term of the Lease ends.

2. ASSUMPTION OF RIGHTS AND DUTIES.

After the Effective Date, the New Tenant shall assume all rights and duties under the Lease, including the obligation to pay rent under the Lease when it is due. The Original Tenant will have no further obligations under the Lease The Original Tenant will remain bound to the Landlord under the Lease, notwithstanding the assignment . However, the Original Tenant remains responsible for obligations accruing before the Effective Date.

3. REIMBURSEMENT.

On or before the Effective Date, the New Tenant shall pay $ to the Original Tenant, which is the sum of:

• (a)  The security deposit held by the Landlord under the Lease; and
• (b)  The rent or other deposits paid in advance by the Original Tenant for any period after the effective date of this assignment.

4. INDEMNIFICATION.

• (a)  The Original Tenant shall indemnify the New Tenant against any award, charge, claim, compensatory damages, cost, damages, exemplary damages, diminution in value, expense, fee, fine, interest, judgment, liability, settlement payment, penalty, or other loss (a " Loss ") or any attorney's or other professional's fee and disbursement, court filing fee, court cost, arbitration fee, arbitration cost, witness fee, and each other fee and cost of investigating and defending or asserting a claim for indemnification (a " Litigation Expense ") arising out of the Original Tenant's breach of its obligations under the Lease before the Effective Date.
• (b) The New Tenant shall indemnify the Original Tenant against all Losses or Litigation Expenses relating to the Lease, except if those Losses or Litigation Expenses arise from the Original Tenant's failure to perform its obligations under the Lease before the Effective Date.
• (c)  The New Tenant shall indemnify the Original Tenant against all Losses or Litigation Expenses attributable to the acts or omissions of the New Tenant or its agents, contractors, or employees with respect to the Premises or any activities on the Premises. This indemnification will survive the termination of the Lease and this assignment.

5. CONTINUING EFFECTIVENESS OF LEASE.

This assignment is made on the understanding that all other terms of the Lease remain in full effect, including the prohibition against further assignments and subleases without the Landlord's express written consent.

6. ORIGINAL TENANT'S REPRESENTATIONS.

The Original Tenant represents that it:

• (a) has the power and authority to enter into and carry out this assignment;
• (b)  has not previously assigned its rights under the Lease;
• (c)  is the lawful and sole owner of the interests assigned under this assignment;
• (d)  the interests assigned under this assignment are free from all encumbrances;
• (e)  except for the Landlord and the Original Tenant, there are no parties in possession or occupancy of the Premises or any part of them, and there are no parties with possessory rights on the Premises or any part of them; and
• (f)  has performed all obligations and made all required payments under the Lease.

7. CONDITION OF PREMISES.

The New Tenant has examined and inspected the Premises and accepts them "as is" and in their present condition with all faults. Except as provided in this assignment, the Original Tenant makes no representations, covenants, or guaranties about the status, nature, or condition of the Lease or the Premises.

8. INTERPRETATION.

In interpreting the language of this assignment, the parties shall be treated as having drafted this assignment after meaningful negotiations. The language in this assignment will be construed as to its fair meaning and not strictly for or against either party.

9. GOVERNING LAW.

• (a) Choice of Law.  The laws of the state of govern this assignment (without giving effect to its conflicts of law principles).
• (b) Choice of Forum. Both parties consent to the personal jurisdiction of the state and federal courts in , .

10. AMENDMENTS .

No amendment to this assignment will be effective unless it is in writing and signed by a party or its authorized representative.

11. COUNTERPARTS; ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES.

• (a) Counterparts.  The parties may execute this agreement in any number of counterparts, each of which is an original but all of which constitute one and the same instrument.
• (b) Electronic Signatures.  This agreement, agreements ancillary to this agreement, and related documents entered into in connection with this agreement are signed when a party's signature is delivered by facsimile, email, or other electronic medium. These signatures must be treated in all respects as having the same force and effect as original signatures.

12. SEVERABILITY.

If any one or more of the provisions contained in this assignment is, for any reason, held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect, that invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability will not affect any other provisions of this assignment, but this assignment will be construed as if those invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provisions had never been contained in it, unless the deletion of those provisions would result in such a material change so as to cause completion of the transactions contemplated by this assignment to be unreasonable.

13. NOTICES.

• (a) Writing; Permitted Delivery Methods.  Each party giving or making any notice, request, demand, or other communication required or permitted by this assignment shall give that notice in writing and use one of the following types of delivery, each of which is a writing for purposes of this assignment: personal delivery, mail (registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return-receipt requested), nationally recognized overnight courier (fees prepaid), facsimile, or email.
• (b) Addresses. A party shall address notices under this section to a party at the following addresses:
• If to the Original Tenant:
• ,   
• If to the New Tenant:
• (c) Effectiveness. A notice is effective only if the party giving notice complies with subsections (a) and (b) and if the recipient receives the notice.

14. WAIVER.

No waiver of a breach, failure of any condition, or any right or remedy contained in or granted by the provisions of this assignment will be effective unless it is in writing and signed by the party waiving the breach, failure, right, or remedy. No waiver of any breach, failure, right, or remedy will be deemed a waiver of any other breach, failure, right, or remedy, whether or not similar, and no waiver will constitute a continuing waiver, unless the writing so specifies.

15. ENTIRE AGREEMENT.

This agreement constitutes the final agreement of the parties. It is the complete and exclusive expression of the parties' agreement about the subject matter of this agreement. All prior and contemporaneous communications, negotiations, and agreements between the parties relating to the subject matter of this agreement are expressly merged into and superseded by this agreement. The provisions of this agreement may not be explained, supplemented, or qualified by evidence of trade usage or a prior course of dealings. Neither party was induced to enter this agreement by, and neither party is relying on, any statement, representation, warranty, or agreement of the other party except those set forth expressly in this agreement. Except as set forth expressly in this agreement, there are no conditions precedent to this agreement's effectiveness.

16. HEADINGS.

The descriptive headings of the sections and subsections of this assignment are for convenience only, and do not affect this agreement's construction or interpretation.

17. EFFECTIVENESS.

This assignment will become effective when all parties have signed it.The date this assignment is signed by the last party to sign it (as indicated by the date associated with that party's signature) will be deemed the date of this assignment.

18. NECESSARY ACTS; FURTHER ASSURANCES.

Each party shall use all reasonable efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions necessary or desirable to consummate and make effective the transactions this assignment contemplates or to evidence or carry out the intent and purposes of this assignment.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

Each party is signing this agreement on the date stated opposite that party's signature.

[PAGE BREAK HERE]

LANDLORD'S CONSENT  AND RELEASE

As Landlord under the Lease, I hereby consent to this assignment of the Lease, and to the New Tenant's assumption of the Original Tenant's obligations under the Lease, including the obligation to pay rent when it is due. As of the Effective Date, I release the Original Tenant from all liability for obligations (including rent payments) under the Lease However, the Original Tenant remains primarily obligated as tenant under the Lease and I do not waive or relinquish any rights under the Lease against either the Original Tenant or the New Tenant.

EXHIBIT A Attach copy of Lease

Free Assignment of Commercial Lease Template

How-to guides, articles, and any other content appearing on this page are for informational purposes only, do not constitute legal advice, and are no substitute for the advice of an attorney.

Assignment of commercial lease: How-to guide

Occasionally, tenants wish to leave a rental property before the end of their lease. Individuals may take new jobs in new cities, and companies may go out of business or sell their enterprises to a third party.

Whatever the reason, tenants can transfer their original commercial lease to new parties by completing an assignment of the lease.

An assignment transfers one party's interest and obligations under a lease to another party.

During these tenant transfers, the new tenant takes on the lease responsibilities, including paying rent and property maintenance of the leased premises, and the original tenant is released from most of their duties.

Successful property management begins with good documentation and a properly drafted, executed assignment:

• Ensures that all parties involved understand the obligations being transferred
• Defines the responsibilities that each party will have under the new arrangement
• Lays the foundation for a long-lasting landlord and new tenant relationship

Important aspects to consider when drafting commercial leases

Laws about the original commercial lease agreement

State laws  governing real estate, renting, leasing, and assignments vary widely and can tremendously affect your arrangement.

Since the tenant is legally responsible for this document, they must include specific information like financial statements in the commercial lease assignment. Consider your state and local laws for additional information required in your area.

Criteria for commercial landlords in providing consents

A landlord may consider only proper factors when deciding whether or not to consent to an assignment.

Some criteria will be regarded as impermissible by courts, such as refusal based on race or sex of the proposed new tenant. If your landlord does not consent to your attempted assignment, ensure they give you clear written reasons for the decision. Failure to provide such reasons can itself be deemed unreasonable.

Consequences of not providing consent

It is essential to seek the landlord’s permission for the proposed transfer of the duties.

Depending on your jurisdiction or the terms of your original lease, a landlord’s failure to respond to your request for consent to assignment within a specific time may be deemed consent. Sometimes, it may give the assigning tenant grounds to terminate the lease. Review the original lease and your state’s laws for additional details.

Although a landlord is not required to consent to a lease assignment agreement, in some cases, your lease will state that a landlord’s consent will not be “unreasonably” withheld. This is more common in commercial leases than in a residential lease. What is considered unreasonable varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and you should review the laws in your area (and the assignment clause in your original lease agreement) for additional information. On the other hand, if the lease states that the landlord may use their “sole discretion” to evaluate the new tenant, they can veto this assignment without any reason.

Rights of the original tenant

The original tenant cannot assign more rights than the original lease. For example, if the lease term is one year, the assignment term cannot be two years.

Review the lease assignments before signing

Most leases require the landlord’s written consent before an assignment becomes effective. Review the assignment provisions and the original lease agreement for additional information and see if other requirements must be met to make the lease assignment agreement valid.

Get the assignment signed

Sign three copies of the assignment, one for you, the other party, and the landlord. Depending on the nature of its terms, you may decide to have the document witnessed or notarized. This will limit later challenges to the validity of a party’s signature.

Be sure the assignee gets a copy of the original lease by attaching it to the assignment. Its terms will bind them, and they should know their new obligations and rights.

If your agreement is complicated, contact an attorney to help draft a document that meets your needs.

Key components of a commercial lease assignment

The following instructions will help you understand the terms of your assignment.

Introduction

In this section, identify the parties and, if applicable, what type of organization(s) they are. Write down how the document identifies each party. For example, the current tenant can be addressed as the “original tenant” or “assignor” as they assign the lease to the new tenant, and the new tenant can be called the “new tenant” or “assignee.”

Furthermore, add the date on which the assignment will become effective – when it is signed.

The “whereas” clauses, referred to as recitals, define the world of the agreement and offer essential background information about the parties.

In this assignment, the recitals include a simple statement of the parties’ intent to assign the original tenant’s interest in the lease and the new tenant’s intent to assume it. Provide a brief description of the rented property and the landlord’s name under the lease.

You don't need to include a complete legal description for the property description, but provide enough information to identify it. For individual houses, the address will usually be sufficient. If the property has a specific name (e.g., “Lincoln Towers”), include that as well. If only a section of the premises is assigned, clarify that in this description.

This section mentions the assignor’s assignment of their right and interest in the lease to the assignee. This assignment clause allows you to determine whether all of the assignor’s interest in the lease is being assigned or only part of it. For example, if interest in only one-half of the premises is being assigned, the document should note this.

Assumption of rights and duties

This section clarifies the assignor’s responsibilities for the duties listed under the lease (e.g., rent, maintenance of property, etc.). For example, whether:

The assignor is ultimately released from any liability they had under the lease. For example, if the assignee defaults, the landlord cannot seek payment from the assignor.

The assignor will be liable to the landlord if the assignee defaults.

In any event, the assignor will remain responsible for any obligations that occurred before the assignment. In other words, if the damage happened to the apartment before the transfer or the assignor did not fulfill another obligation under the lease, the assignor remains responsible for the building occupied.

Reimbursement

In many rental relationships, amounts are paid in advance or deposited as security for the landlord.

At the end of the lease, this security deposit (with deductions subtracted or interest added) is returned to the tenant. If an entire interest is assigned, the lease does not end, and the assigning party cannot get this money back. This paragraph requires the assignee to pay those amounts to the assignor, and any later return of that money by the landlord will be made to the assignee.

Indemnification

In such clauses, the assignee promises to bear the financial cost of any injury the assignor suffers due to its assignment and any lawsuits arising from its activities on the premises. Note that there is an exception for things done by the assignor before the effective date of the assignment — the assignor remains responsible for those actions.

Continuing effectiveness of lease

Here, emphasize that the original lease terms are still effective to the assignee, except for the assignment.

Assignor’s representations and warranties

List the assignor’s promises under the assignment. Note that this is not a detailed list of services to be provided. Instead, this is the assignor’s assurance that the lease and the rental interest it’s providing are helpful (i.e., no one else lives or has an interest in the place, the lease is still in effect, the assignor is not behind in rental payments, etc.). If there are additional representations the assignor should be making, feel free to include those here.

Condition of premises

Here, mention that the premises are not warranted to be perfect or valuable in a particular way. Instead, the assignee is taking the rented property for what it is and is accepting it in that state.

Additional terms of assignment

This optional provision allows the assignor and the assignee to include any representations, warranties, or other provisions particular to their situation.

Interpretation

This section provides information that both parties were on equal footing in negotiating the consent to assignment. In many cases, a contract is interpreted favorably by the individual who did not draft it. This clause clarifies that both parties were involved in the drafting, so the document should not be read in favor of (or against) either.

Here, list the addresses to which all official or legal correspondence should be delivered. This can be the tenant’s business address or the mailing address for both the assignor and the assignee.

Modification

This section indicates that any changes to the document are only effective if they are made in writing and signed by both parties.

Governing law

This section allows the parties to choose the state laws used to interpret the document.

Counterparts; electronic signatures

This section explains that even if the parties sign the assignment in different locations or use electronic devices to transmit signatures (e.g., fax machines or computers), the separate pieces will be considered part of the same agreement. In a modern world where signing parties are often not in the same city—much less the same room — this provision ensures that business can be transacted efficiently without sacrificing the validity of the agreement as a whole.

Entire agreement

This clause mentions that the document parties are signing is “the agreement” about the issues involved. Unfortunately, the inclusion of this provision will not prevent a party from arguing that other enforceable promises exist, but it can provide you some protection from these claims.

Landlord’s consent and release 

Review the terms of the original lease agreement to determine whether or not the  landlord’s consent  is required to make the assignment effective. This is usually the case. If so, have the landlord sign the document.

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of an assignment of lease.

Whether it's because it's time to move to a new space or city, business isn't booming, a company gets sold, or otherwise, sometimes commercial tenants must leave a lease before it ends. And sometimes, they may want to transfer the responsibilities of their lease to someone new. A lease assignment occurs in this case.

Here's the information you'll need to have handy to complete your assignment of commercial lease:

• Who the old tenant is : Have their name and contact information ready
• Who the new tenant is : Have their information available

What is the difference between an assignment and a sublease?

An assignment transfers one party's interest in an agreement to a third party. In this case, the original tenant gives all their interest to a new tenant. That new tenant steps into the shoes of the old tenant and the old tenant is released from most of their obligations under the lease (although this can be changed by agreement).

This is not the same as a sublease.  Under a sublease , a third party is granted only those specific rights provided in the sublease. The original tenant remains ultimately liable for residual obligations under the lease or any failures of the new tenant to meet their obligations. This means that the original tenant will be responsible (in equal measure with the new tenant) for any skipped rent payments or damage to the property.

Related categories

Related templates.

Assignment of Agreement

Transfer work responsibilities efficiently with an assignment of agreement. Facilitate a smooth transition from one party to another.

Assignment of Residential Lease

Simplify lease transfers with an assignment of residential lease agreement. With the landlord's approval, smoothly transfer your lease responsibilities to a new tenant while documenting the arrangement comprehensively.

Landlord Consent to Assignment

Facilitate lease transfers with a landlord consent to assignment form. Provide tenant and landlord information, along with the rental property address, and grant permission for the lease transfer easily.

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Regulations and Notice to Lessees (NTL) 

Onshore Oil and Gas Orders and the Code of Federal Regulation implement and supplement the oil and gas regulations found at 43 CFR 3160 for conducting oil and gas operations on federal and Indian lands. 

Regulations 

43 CFR 3171 , which replaces Order 1: This regulation provides procedures for submitting an Application for Permit To Drill and all required approvals of subsequent well operations and other lease operations. 

43 CFR 3172 , which replaces Order 2: This regulation provides requirements and standards for drilling and abandonment.

43 CFR 3173 , which replaces Order 3, establishes standards to ensure that oil and gas are properly and securely handled to prevent theft and loss, and to enable accurate measurement and production accountability.

• Download the  Site Security Fact Sheet
• FAQs on 43 CFR 3170-3173
• Sample letter to operators - updated information and delay in assignment of FMP numbers

The BLM anticipated deploying an electronic application for operators to apply for FMPs in May 2017; however, due to unforeseen circumstances BLM’s deployment is delayed beyond May 2017, with no new target date set. The BLM will provide operators with a 30-day notice of the new effective date.

43 CFR 3174 , which replaces Order 4, establishes minimum standards for the accurate measurement of all oil.

•  Download the  Oil Measurement Fact Sheet
•   FAQs on 43 CFR 3174

43 CFR 3175 , which replaces Order 5, establishes minimum standards for the accurate measurement of gas.

• Download the  Gas Measurement Fact Sheet
• FAQs on 43 CFR 3175

43 CFR 3176 , which replaces Order 6: This regulation provides the requirements and standards for conducting oil and gas operations in an environment known to or expected to contain hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas.

43 CFR 3177 , which replaces Order 7: This regulation provides the methods and approvals necessary to dispose of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.

National Notices to Lessees (NTLs)

NTL 3A: Reporting of Undesirable Events   

Waste Prevention Rule

BLM finalized the  Waste Prevention, Production Subject to Royalties, and Resource Conservation Rule —also known as the Waste Prevention Rule—in April 2024, combining and building on years of technological advances and best management practices. 

The rule is expected to generate more than $50 million in additional natural gas royalty payments each year and conserve billions of cubic feet of gas that might have otherwise been vented, flared, or leaked from operators. This conserved gas will be available to power American homes and industries.