Landlord and tenant agreement changes: put them in writing

Published 2026-11-02 · SignedChange Guides

Landlords and tenants agree changes all the time: a rent increase, a repair the tenant will do in exchange for lower rent, a pet, a new move-out date, a payment plan for late rent. These deals are often made by phone or in the hallway and never written down, until there's a disagreement about the deposit or the rent.

Here's how to record tenancy changes clearly. Tenancy law varies a lot by country and region, so this is general information, not legal advice.

Why tenancy changes should always be in writing

Tenancies last months or years. Memories fade, people move, and properties change hands. A written, signed change protects both sides: the tenant can prove what the landlord allowed, and the landlord can prove what the tenant agreed to pay or do. In many places, certain changes, like rent increases, also have legal notice rules.

Common changes to record

Rent amount or due date changes.
Payment plans for arrears.
Repairs or improvements, who pays, and any rent offset.
Permission for pets, subletting, or a new occupant.
Changes to move-in or move-out dates.
Agreements about the deposit or condition of the property.

What to include

Names of landlord and tenant(s) and the property address.
Reference to the original tenancy agreement and its date.
Exactly what changes, and from what date.
Any money involved: amounts, dates, how paid.
A statement that all other terms stay the same.
Date and signatures of both sides.

The structure is similar to a contract amendment.

Example

Tenancy change — 1 May 2026
Property: Flat 3, 12 Market Street.
Landlord: P. Ndip. Tenant: S. Fon.
Original agreement: Tenancy dated 1 January 2026.
Change: Tenant will repaint the living room (paint supplied by landlord) by 31 May 2026. In return, June 2026 rent is reduced from $300 to $220.
All other terms remain unchanged.
Signed: ______ (landlord) ______ (tenant)

Check local rules first

Some changes have legal requirements: notice periods for rent increases, rules on deposits, or limits on what tenants can agree to. A written record doesn't override the law. For significant changes, check with a local housing authority or professional.

Make it easy to sign

Landlords and tenants often aren't in the same place. A phone-friendly signing link solves that. With SignedChange you can use the landlord template in the templates list, describe the change, and send a link by WhatsApp or email. Both sides get the same signed PDF to keep.

Tips for landlords and tenants

For landlords: record every concession, even small ones like a few days' grace on rent. Keep signed changes with the original tenancy agreement and your inspection photos. When a tenant moves out, these records make deposit decisions far easier to justify.For tenants: if the landlord agrees to something that benefits you, such as permission for a pet, a repair they'll pay for, or a reduced rent month, ask for it in writing straight away. Landlords sell properties and hand them to managing agents, and verbal permissions are easily lost in the handover.For both: date everything, use plain language, and make sure every named tenant signs. A short signed record now prevents a much longer argument at the end of the tenancy.

If a verbal deal already happened

Write it up now and ask the other side to sign. If they won't, send it as a message and keep it. Our guides on putting a verbal agreement in writing and whether verbal agreements are binding explain more.

Record your next change in 60 seconds

Describe the change, set the price, and send a signing link by WhatsApp or email. Both sides get the same signed, dated PDF. Your first 3 documents are free — no account needed.

Create a signed change record free Browse templates See pricing

Frequently asked questions

Can a landlord change the tenancy agreement without the tenant's consent?

Generally a change to agreed terms needs both parties' agreement, but some changes, like certain rent increases, follow legal procedures. Check local law.

Is a text message from my landlord enough?

It's useful evidence, but a dated, signed record with full details is stronger.

Should both tenants sign if there are two?

Usually all tenants named on the original agreement should sign changes.

Do I need a new tenancy agreement for every change?

Not usually. A short signed change referencing the original agreement is often enough.

Related guides

This article is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by country and situation; for important or high-value matters, speak to a qualified local professional.