I let both parties on the lease know I am happy to amend the lease to remove one of them, but they will both need to sign it to release one party from the lease.
Rental Property Investor · SE Michigan · Member since 2014 · 4k+ posts · 6k+ votes
6y
It is important that the remaining party qualify for the lease, particularly the income requirements. Otherwise, you are likely to have delinquency.
I'd also only do this if I am getting something for it, even if it is small. For example, I might change the lease-end date to a more favorable month for me, or if I've updated my terms there is benefit for having a new lease. Otherwise you are making it less-likely you will collect rent for no corresponding benefit to your business. You would be better off NOT updating the lease.
Rental Property Investor · Northern, CA · Member since 2012 · 5k+ posts · 5k+ votes
6y
@James Montague I wouldn't amend it. If one wants to move out fine, but both their names are going to remain on the lease - and they'll both be responsible for paying for the rent like they agreed to be - until the term of the lease is up.
Besides, what are you going to do if/when they make up and get back together? (Happens all the time.) Amend it yet again and add the other person back on? Way too much work.
I ended up just letting them know I am happy to send them an amended lease, and will gladly remove one of them if they would like but they both have to sign.