As a tenant, you may encounter a situation where you need to make changes to your tenancy agreement. This can happen for various reasons, such as changes to your rental terms or modifications to the property that require an update to the agreement.
Whatever the reason, it is crucial that you understand the process of making variations to your tenancy agreement. In this article, we will explore what variations to a tenancy agreement mean, when they are necessary, and how to go about making them.
What is a variation to a tenancy agreement?
A variation to a tenancy agreement refers to any changes made to the original agreement that was signed by the tenant and the landlord. These changes may include modifications to the rental terms, changes to the length of the tenancy, or any alterations to the property that require an update to the agreement.
A variation to a tenancy agreement can only be made if both the tenant and landlord agree to the changes. Any changes made to the agreement should be in writing and signed by both parties. A verbal agreement is not sufficient and will not hold up in court, should any disputes arise.
When is a variation necessary?
There are several instances where a variation to a tenancy agreement may be necessary. These include:
1. Changes to the rental terms – If there are changes to the rental amount or payment frequency, these changes must be reflected in the tenancy agreement.
2. Alterations to the property – If the landlord makes any changes or modifications to the property, such as adding a new appliance or installing a security system, these changes must be reflected in the agreement.
3. Extension or termination of the tenancy – Any changes to the length of the tenancy, such as an extension or early termination, must be reflected in the agreement.
How to make a variation to a tenancy agreement
If you need to make a variation to your tenancy agreement, you should follow these steps:
1. Discuss the proposed changes with your landlord – Before making any changes to the agreement, it is essential to discuss the proposed changes with your landlord and ensure that they agree to the modifications.
2. Draft a letter outlining the proposed changes – Once you have discussed the changes with your landlord, you should draft a letter outlining the proposed changes to the tenancy agreement.
3. Sign the new agreement – Once both parties have agreed to the changes, a new tenancy agreement reflecting the changes should be drafted and signed by both parties.
4. Keep a copy of the new agreement – It is essential to keep a copy of the new agreement with the updated changes for future reference.
In conclusion, making variations to a tenancy agreement can be necessary for various reasons. However, it is important to follow the correct procedures outlined above to ensure that the changes are legally binding and recognized by both parties. As a tenant, it is crucial to understand when a variation may be necessary and how to go about making the changes.
