You and your landlord can mutually agree to add to, or otherwise change, the proposed lease¹ (this is especially important if the landlord promises to make improvements to the property prior to or during the tenancy).

• Mark objectionable clauses, and try to have them removed.
• List any provisions you would like to add. For example:
  1. If the landlord says the unit has specific appliances, such as a dishwasher, be sure the lease states the specific appliances provided.
  2. If you expect the landlord to paint the premises or make other modifications before you move in, include this/these stipulation(s) in the lease.
• If there are rules or provisions from a separate document to be included as part of the lease, know what they are, and obtain and keep a copy of the document.
• See an attorney or a tenant advocacy service if the lease:
  1. is extremely complex.
  2. involves large amounts of money.
  3. is for a long time period, such as three or more years.
• Do not sign a lease that has any blank sections.
• Do not agree to any provision to obey rules not yet written.
• Assume the landlord will enforce every lease provision.

After you have read the proposed lease, but before you sign, it is always advisable to do the following:

• Check the property records at City Hall to find out if you are signing a lease to a property or with a landlord that has been known to have problems in the past.
• Be sure all agreed additions and deletions are in writing and are initialed by both you and the landlord on all copies of the lease.²