Adding tenants to existing month to month lease

[Nick Zigler]

Background: Oakland multi-family (4-plex) property

Scenario: Existing tenant would like to add new occupants (2 relatives) to an existing month-to-month agreement. 1) Should we add the new tenants as master tenants or simply as authorized occupants? What are the pros/cons of doing either? 2) Should we add the new tenants via an addendum or have all occupants both old and new sign a new month to month (m2m) contract? The research I've been able to do so far says a new contract is likely preferred so that it gives me a chance to update the contract anyways but just wanted to get people's thoughts.

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Nick Zigler:

Screen all adults. Add all adults to the lease and make them 100% liable for all terms and conditions, regardless of who is paying.

You can create a new lease, but adding tenants can be as simple as having them sign the existing one or typing up a short addendum. Be sure to provide them a copy and help them understand they are liable for all terms.