Tenant VS Occupant?
Individuals can be added to a lease either as tenants or occupants, typically based on specific criteria or circumstances.
- A tenant is a contractual party to the lease agreement and assumes complete responsibility for fulfilling the terms outlined within the apartment lease. It is expected that any individual over the age of 18 residing in the apartment will be designated as a lease signer rather than merely an occupant.
- An occupant is an individual granted permission to reside in the apartment, typically under the age of 18 years old, with access to an apartment key and utilization of the building's amenities.
- Example: Tenants are fully responsible for complying with all lease terms, including rent payments and other obligations. As an occupant, you are granted permission to reside in the apartment like a tenant but are not held accountable for certain lease terms, such as the responsibility of rental payments.
| Who's responsible for: | Tenant | Occupant |
| ALL lease terms | Yes | No |
| Payments | Yes | No |
- However, It's important to note that tenants remain responsible and accountable for the actions of their occupants, and guests.
Example: It is essential to note that tenants are accountable for the conduct of their occupants and guests.
If an occupant breaches any terms outlined in the signed lease, the tenants can be held accountable. In the event of multiple noise complaints caused by an occupant, notifications regarding the complaints will be directed to the tenants. In extreme circumstances, the actions of an occupant may lead to the eviction of all individuals residing in the apartment, including both the occupant and tenants.