Lease Assignment Agreement

Jump to section.

A lease assignment agreement is a legally binding contract outlining the terms and conditions of transferring a lease from one party to another in one place. This means the assignee becomes the new tenant and assumes all the rights, obligations, and liabilities under the original lease. Lease assignments are commonly used in real estate transactions when a tenant wants to transfer their lease to another party before the lease term expires. We will discuss the lease assignment agreements' purpose, key elements, and other relevant aspects.

Key Elements of a Lease Assignment Agreement

A lease assignment agreement includes several key elements outlining the terms and conditions of the lease transfer. These elements may vary depending on local laws and specific circumstances but generally include the following:

  • Parties: The lease assignment agreement should clearly identify the parties involved, including the original tenant (assignor), the new tenant (assignee), and the landlord.
  • Property: The agreement should specify the property subject to the lease assignment, including the address, unit number, and relevant details.
  • Terms: The agreement should state the lease assignment's effective date, the original lease's remaining term, and any renewal or termination provisions.
  • Rights and Obligations: The agreement should outline the rights and obligations of the assignor, assignee, and landlord, including rent payments, maintenance responsibilities, and any other lease terms that will carry over to the assignee.
  • Consent: In most cases, the lease assignment agreement requires the landlord's written consent. The agreement should specify the conditions and process for obtaining landlord consent.
  • Indemnification: The agreement may include provisions for indemnifying the landlord against any losses or damages resulting from the lease assignment.
  • Governing Law : The agreement should specify the governing law and jurisdiction applicable to any disputes or legal matters related to the lease assignment.

Legal Implications of Lease Assignment Agreements

Lease assignments have legal implications for all parties involved. It is important to understand the potential legal risks and obligations associated with lease assignments. For tenants, it may be necessary to review the original lease agreement and seek legal advice to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the lease assignment. Landlords should carefully review and approve lease assignments to protect their rights and interests. In some jurisdictions, landlords may have the right to reject a proposed lease assignment for valid reasons.

lease assignment

Nicholas M.

lease assignment

Practical Tips for Managing Lease Assignment Agreements

Lease assignments can be complex, and it is important for tenants and landlords to approach them with caution. Here are some tips for navigating lease assignments:

For Tenants

  • Review the Original Lease Agreement: Understand the terms and conditions of the original lease before entering into a lease assignment agreement.
  • Seek Legal Advice: Consider consulting with a real estate attorney to ensure compliance with local laws and protect your rights and interests.
  • Obtain Written Consent from the Landlord: Follow the process outlined in the lease assignment agreement to obtain written consent from the landlord before proceeding with the assignment.
  • Communicate with all Parties Involved: Keep open communication with the assignee, assignor, and landlord throughout the process to avoid misunderstandings or disputes.
  • Fulfill Obligations under the Original Lease: Even after the lease assignment, the assignor may still be responsible for fulfilling their obligations under the original lease until the effective date of the assignment.

For Landlords

  • Review the Lease Assignment Carefully: Carefully review the proposed lease assignment agreement, including the terms and conditions, rights and obligations of the assignor and assignee, and any indemnification provisions.
  • Require Written Consent: Insist on obtaining written consent from the assignor and assignee before allowing the lease assignment to proceed, as this protects your rights and interests as a landlord.
  • Verify Financials and Credentials of Assignee: Conduct thorough due diligence on the proposed assignee's financials and credentials to ensure they can fulfill the lease obligations.
  • Update Lease Documentation: Once the lease assignment is approved, update the lease documentation to reflect the new tenant (assignee) and provide copies to all parties involved.
  • Communicate with all Parties Involved: Maintain open communication with the assignor, assignee, and any property management or legal professionals involved in the lease assignment process to ensure a smooth transition.

Potential Risks and Considerations

There are potential risks and considerations that tenants and landlords should be aware of when it comes to lease assignments. These may include:

  • Non-Compliance with the Original Lease: If the assignee fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the original lease, the assignor may still be held liable for any breaches.
  • Landlord's Right to Reject: In some jurisdictions, landlords may have the right to reject a proposed lease assignment for valid reasons, such as the assignee's inability to meet financial obligations or lack of appropriate credentials.
  • Indemnification Provisions: The lease assignment agreement may include indemnification provisions that hold the assignor and assignee responsible for any losses or damages resulting from the lease assignment.
  • Legal Disputes: Disputes may arise during the lease assignment process, such as disagreements over the terms and conditions, consent requirements, or other related matters.
  • Local Laws and Regulations: Lease assignments are subject to local laws and regulations, which may vary by jurisdiction. It is important to ensure compliance with applicable laws and seek legal advice.

Key Terms for Legal Assignment Agreements

  • Consideration: Refers to the value or benefit each party receives in exchange for entering into the assignment agreement.
  • Assignment: The transfer of rights or obligations from one party (assignor) to another (assignee) as agreed upon in the assignment agreement.
  • Consent: The requirement for obtaining permission or agreement from relevant parties, such as the original contracting parties, for the assignment to occur.
  • Indemnity : The legal protection provided by the assignor to the assignee against any potential losses, liabilities, or claims arising from the assignment.
  • Governing Law: The jurisdiction or legal system that governs the interpretation, validity, and enforcement of the assignment agreement, which is typically specified in the agreement itself.

Final Thoughts on Legal Assignment Agreements

A lease assignment agreement is a legally binding contract allowing tenants to transfer their lease rights and responsibilities to another party. It is important for both tenants and landlords to carefully review and understand the terms and conditions of a lease assignment, seek legal advice if needed, and maintain open communication throughout the process. By following the appropriate steps and considering potential risks and considerations, lease assignments can be a useful tool for tenants and landlords to manage their lease agreements effectively.

However, you need the help of a professional lawyer to ensure you do not end up messing up a lease assignment agreement. So, ensure you approach an experienced attorney who is well-versed in the field.

If you want free pricing proposals from vetted lawyers that are 60% less than typical law firms, click here to get started. By comparing multiple proposals for free, you can save the time and stress of finding a quality lawyer for your business needs.

Need help with a Lease Assignment Agreement?

Meet some of our lease assignment agreement lawyers.

Don G. on ContractsCounsel

Texas licensed attorney specializing for 22 years in Business and Contract law with a focus on construction law and business operations. My services include General Business Law Advisement; Contract Review and Drafting; Legal Research and Writing; Business Formation; Articles or Instructive Writing; and more. I am able to draft and review contracts, and have experience with, contract law and business formation in any state. For more insight into my skills and experience, please feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile or contact me with any questions.

Diane D. on ContractsCounsel

I am the Founder and Managing Attorney of DMD Law, PA. and have 20 years' experience. I also am a business-oriented, proactive, and problem-solving corporate lawyer with in-house experience. My firm's practice focuses on ensuring the legalities of commercial transactions and contracts. I am adept at reviewing, drafting, negotiating and generally overseeing policies, procedures, handbooks, corporate documents, and contracts. I have a proven track record of leading domestic and international companies by ensuring they are functioning in complete compliance with local, federal and international law. The firm's goal is to simplify the law and provide clients with the confidence and information necessary to make their decisions.

Michael O. on ContractsCounsel

A corporate and commercial attorney with experience in transactional legal services including corporate and finance transactions, mergers and acquisitions, real estate, commercial contracts, bankruptcy, restructuring, international business transactions and general counsel services. Additional background skills and experience include investment banking, financial analysis, and commercial litigation. Sectors covered include technology, media, franchises, and business services providers, from start-ups to medium and large enterprises.

Jonathan G. on ContractsCounsel

Jonathan G.

Small Business Attorney licensed in Texas and Colorado. Based in Dallas, appointments available in DFW area.

Michael K. on ContractsCounsel

A business-oriented, proactive, and problem-solving corporate lawyer with in-house counsel experience, ensuring the legality of commercial transactions and contracts. Michael is adept in reviewing, drafting, negotiating, and generally overseeing policies, procedures, handbooks, corporate documents, and more importantly, contracts. He has a proven track record of helping lead domestic and international companies by ensuring they are functioning in complete compliance with local and international rules and regulations.

Sean S. on ContractsCounsel

I am an attorney with six years of experience drafting and negotiating a wide variety of business contracts, in industries including technology and software, finance, professional services, hospitality, and non-profits.

Joshua C. on ContractsCounsel

Attorney Joshua K. S. Cali is a respected business, estate planning, and real estate attorney based in Ashland serving Middlesex County and other nearby areas. Joshua graduated summa cum laude from Bentley University in Waltham, MA, and from UCLA School of Law in Los Angeles. Before starting his own firm, Joshua practiced estate planning for high net worth clients at a boutique law firm in San Diego, CA.

Find the best lawyer for your project

Real estate lawyers by top cities.

  • Austin Real Estate Lawyers
  • Boston Real Estate Lawyers
  • Chicago Real Estate Lawyers
  • Dallas Real Estate Lawyers
  • Denver Real Estate Lawyers
  • Houston Real Estate Lawyers
  • Los Angeles Real Estate Lawyers
  • New York Real Estate Lawyers
  • Phoenix Real Estate Lawyers
  • San Diego Real Estate Lawyers
  • Tampa Real Estate Lawyers

Lease Assignment Agreement lawyers by city

  • Austin Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Boston Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Chicago Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Dallas Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Denver Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Houston Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Los Angeles Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • New York Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Phoenix Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • San Diego Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers
  • Tampa Lease Assignment Agreement Lawyers

ContractsCounsel User

Lease Agreement

Location: california, turnaround: less than a week, service: drafting, doc type: lease agreement, number of bids: 4, bid range: $249 - $650, create lease agreement, location: colorado, number of bids: 7, bid range: $400 - $1,450, related contracts.

  • Addendum to Lease
  • ALTA Statement
  • Apartment Lease
  • Apartment Rental Agreement
  • Assignment of Lease
  • Boundary Line Agreement
  • Brokerage Agreement
  • Building Contract
  • Building Lease
  • Business Office Lease Agreement

other helpful articles

  • How much does it cost to draft a contract?
  • Do Contract Lawyers Use Templates?
  • How do Contract Lawyers charge?
  • Business Contract Lawyers: How Can They Help?
  • What to look for when hiring a lawyer

Want to speak to someone?

Get in touch below and we will schedule a time to connect!

Find lawyers and attorneys by city

lease assignment

This residential lease assignment is between , an individual (the " Original Tenant ") and an individual (the " New Tenant ").

On or about , the Original Tenant and (the " Landlord ") entered into a lease agreement (the " Lease ").

The Lease covers the property located at , , , and more particularly described as follows: (the " Premises ").

Under section of the Lease, the Original Tenant is permitted to assign its interest in the Lease, with the consent of the Landlord.

The Original Tenant wishes to assign to the New Tenant's his or her rights in, and delegate all of his or her obligations under, the Lease, and the New Tenant wishes to accept this assignment.

The parties therefore agree as follows:

1. ASSIGNMENT.

The Original Tenant assigns to the New Tenant of all his or her rights in, and delegates to the New Tenant all of his or her obligations under, the Lease. This transfer will become effective as of (the " Effective Date "), and will continue until the present term of the Lease ends.

2. ASSUMPTION OF RIGHTS AND DUTIES.

After the Effective Date, the New Tenant shall assume all rights and duties under the Lease, including the obligation to pay rent under the Lease when it is due.   The Original Tenant will have no further obligations under the Lease   The Original Tenant will remain bound to the Landlord under the Lease, notwithstanding the assignment . However, the Original Tenant remains responsible for obligations accruing before the Effective Date.

3. REIMBURSEMENT.

On or before the Effective Date, the New Tenant shall pay to the Original Tenant, which is the sum of:

  • (a)  the security deposit held by the Landlord under the Lease; and
  • (b)  the rent or other deposits paid in advance by the Original Tenant for any period after the effective date of this assignment.

4. INDEMNIFICATION.

  • (a) The Original Tenant shall indemnify the New Tenant from all damages, liabilities, expenses, claims, or judgments (including interest and reasonable attorneys' fees) (collectively, "Claims" ) arising out of the Original Tenant's failure to perform his or her obligations under the Lease before the Effective Date.
  • (b) The New Tenant shall indemnify the Original Tenant from all Claims relating to the Lease, except if those costs arise from the Original Tenant's failure to perform his or her duties under the Lease before the Effective Date.
  • (c) The New Tenant shall indemnify the Original Tenant from all Claims attributable to the acts or omissions of the New Tenant or his or her agents, contractors, or employees with respect to the Premises or any activities on the Premises. This indemnification will survive the termination of the Lease and this assignment.

5. CONTINUING EFFECTIVENESS OF LEASE.

This assignment is made on the understanding that all other terms of the Lease remain in full effect, including the prohibition against further assignments and subleases without the Landlord's express written consent.

6. ORIGINAL TENANT'S REPRESENTATIONS.

The Original Tenant represents that he or she:

  • (a) has the power and authority to enter into and carry out this assignment;
  • (b) has not previously assigned his or her rights under the Lease;
  • (c) is the lawful and sole owner of the interests assigned under this assignment;
  • (d) the interests assigned under this assignment are free from all encumbrances;
  • (e) except for the Landlord and the Original Tenant, there are no parties in possession or occupancy of the Premises or any part of them, and there are no parties with possessory rights on the Premises or any part of them; and
  • (f) has performed all obligations and made all required payments under the Lease.

7. CONDITION OF PREMISES.

The New Tenant has examined and inspected the Premises and accepts them "as is" and in its present condition with all faults. Except as provided in this assignment, the Original Tenant makes no representations, covenants, or guaranties about the status, nature, or condition of the Lease or the Premises.

8. INTERPRETATION .

In interpreting the language of this assignment, the parties shall be treated as having drafted this assignment after meaningful negotiations. The language in this assignment will be construed as to its fair meaning and not strictly for or against either party.

9. GOVERNING LAW .

  • (a) Choice of Law. The laws of the state of govern this assignment (without giving effect to its conflicts of law principles).
  • (b) Choice of Forum. Both parties consent to the personal jurisdiction of the state and federal courts in County, .

10. AMENDMENTS.

No amendment to this assignment will be effective unless it is in writing and signed by a party or its authorized representative.

11. COUNTERPARTS; ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES.

  • (a) Counterparts. The parties may execute this agreement in any number of counterparts, each of which is an original but all of which constitute one and the same instrument.
  • (b) Electronic Signatures . This agreement, agreements ancillary to this agreement, and related documents entered into in connection with this agreement are signed when a party's signature is delivered by facsimile, email, or other electronic medium. These signatures must be treated in all respects as having the same force and effect as original signatures.

12. SEVERABILITY.

If any one or more of the provisions contained in this assignment is, for any reason, held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect, that invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability will not affect any other provisions of this assignment, but this assignment will be construed as if those invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provisions had never been contained in it, unless the deletion of those provisions would result in such a material change so as to cause completion of the transactions contemplated by this assignment to be unreasonable.

13. NOTICES.

  • (a) Writing; Permitted Delivery Methods . Each party giving or making any notice, request, demand, or other communication required or permitted by this assignment shall give that notice in writing and use one of the following types of delivery, each of which is a writing for purposes of this assignment: personal delivery, mail (registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return-receipt requested), nationally recognized overnight courier (fees prepaid), facsimile, or email.
  • (b) Addresses. A party shall address notices under this section to a party at the following addresses:
  • If to the Original Tenant:
  • If to the New Tenant:
  • (c) Effectiveness. A notice is effective only if the party giving notice complies with subsections (a) and (b) and if the recipient receives the notice.

14. WAIVER.

No waiver of a breach, failure of any condition, or any right or remedy contained in or granted by the provisions of this assignment will be effective unless it is in writing and signed by the party waiving the breach, failure, right, or remedy. No waiver of any breach, failure, right, or remedy will be deemed a waiver of any other breach, failure, right, or remedy, whether or not similar, and no waiver will constitute a continuing waiver, unless the writing so specifies.

15. ENTIRE AGREEMENT.

This agreement constitutes the final agreement of the parties. It is the complete and exclusive expression of the parties' agreement about the subject matter of this agreement. All prior and contemporaneous communications, negotiations, and agreements between the parties relating to the subject matter of this agreement are expressly merged into and superseded by this agreement. The provisions of this agreement may not be explained, supplemented, or qualified by evidence of trade usage or a prior course of dealings. Neither party was induced to enter this agreement by, and neither party is relying on, any statement, representation, warranty, or agreement of the other party except those set forth expressly in this agreement. Except as set forth expressly in this agreement, there are no conditions precedent to this agreement's effectiveness.

16. HEADINGS.

The descriptive headings of the sections and subsections of this assignment are for convenience only, and do not affect this agreement's construction or interpretation.

17. EFFECTIVENESS.

This assignment will become effective when all parties have signed it. The date this assignment is signed by the last party to sign it (as indicated by the date associated with that party's signature) will be deemed the date of this assignment.

18. NECESSARY ACTS; FURTHER ASSURANCES.

Each party shall use all reasonable efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions necessary or desirable to consummate and make effective the transactions this assignment contemplates or to evidence or carry out the intent and purposes of this assignment.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

Each party is signing this agreement on the date stated opposite that party's signature.

ORIGINAL TENANT

[PAGE BREAK HERE]

LANDLORD'S CONSENT AND RELEASE

As Landlord under the Lease, I hereby consent to this assignment of the Lease, and to the New Tenant's assumption of the Original Tenant's obligations under the Lease, including the obligation to pay rent when it is due. As of the Effective Date, I release the Original Tenant from all liability for obligations (including rent payments) under the Lease. However, the Original Tenant remains primarily obligated as tenant under the Lease and I do not waive or relinquish any rights under the Lease against either the Original Tenant or the New Tenant.

Attach a copy of the Lease as Exhibit A

Free Assignment of Residential Lease Template

Simplify lease transfers with an assignment of residential lease agreement. with the landlord's approval, smoothly transfer your lease responsibilities to a new tenant while documenting the arrangement comprehensively..

Complete your document with ease

What's an assignment of residential lease?

Related templates

Assignment of Agreement

Assignment of Agreement

Transfer work responsibilities efficiently with an assignment of agreement. Facilitate a smooth transition from one party to another.

Assignment of Commercial Lease

Assignment of Commercial Lease

Transfer your commercial lease to a new tenant smoothly. Create an assignment of a commercial lease to clearly articulate the new tenant's rights, responsibilities, and obligations.

Cohabitation Agreement

Cohabitation Agreement

Step into a new chapter of your life securely with a cohabitation agreement. Start your commitment on the right track with your significant other.

Land Co-ownership Agreement

Land Co-ownership Agreement

Define the rights and responsibilities of a property owner with a land co-ownership agreement. Safeguard investments and clarify land usage guidelines.

Landlord Consent to Assignment

Landlord Consent to Assignment

Facilitate lease transfers with a landlord consent to assignment form. Provide tenant and landlord information, along with the rental property address, and grant permission for the lease transfer easily.

Landlord Consent to Sublease

Landlord Consent to Sublease

Obtain approval from the landlord to sublet a space with a sublease agreement. Use our template to clearly lay out the lease terms, obligations of the new tenant, payment, and other essential details.