California Association Of Realtors Extension Of Lease C.a.r. Form El 11 11
If the tenant is in active military service and receives Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, they can terminate a lease early. However, an extension signed via Form EL-11/11 is still a lease modification. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) rights remain intact.
Form Code: EL Revised: 11/11 (November 2011) Issuing Body: California Association of Realtors® (C.A.R.)
While the EL-11/11 is designed for use by realtors and laypeople, you should seek legal advice if:
There are four common scenarios where this form becomes indispensable:
Form EL-11/11 is a precise, efficient solution for short-term lease extensions. It prevents the accidental creation of a month-to-month tenancy and provides legal clarity for both parties.
However, a word of warning: This form is narrow by design. If you need to change more than two or three terms (e.g., adding a new roommate, changing parking rules, or renovating the kitchen), do not use an extension. In that case, terminate the old lease and execute a brand new Rental Agreement. If the tenant is in active military service
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Real estate professionals and landlords should consult with a qualified California attorney or their local Association of REALTORS® regarding the specific use of C.A.R. forms.
C.A.R. Form EL (Extension of Lease) is a concise, one-page document designed to extend a fixed-term lease for a new specified period while keeping the original lease's core terms in effect. This form is essential for landlords and tenants who wish to continue their relationship without drafting an entirely new, lengthy residential lease agreement. Key Features of Form EL
The form is structured to address the most critical changes that occur during an extension:
Extension of Term: Explicitly defines the new termination date.
Rent Adjustments: Provides a field to update the monthly rent amount. Many agents and landlords confuse extension with renewal,
Security Deposit: Includes a section to increase the security deposit if the rent has gone up.
Incorporation of Law: Modern versions (revised 6/23) allow for the attachment of the Rent Cap and Just Cause Addendum (Form RCJC) to ensure compliance with California's Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482).
Survival of Terms: A crucial clause states that all other terms from the original lease remain in full force and effect. Critical Review: Pros and Cons Feature Review Sentiment Simplicity
High. It avoids the need to re-verify every standard clause (like maintenance or utilities) by referencing the original lease. Compliance
Strong. Regularly updated by C.A.R. to reflect new state laws, such as changing terminology from "Landlord" to "Housing Provider" for consistency across forms. Limitations Use EL-11/11 when: A tenant needs 1, 3,
Moderate. If you need to change more than just the dates and rent (e.g., adding a new pet or changing utility responsibilities), this form may be too limited; an Amendment to Residential Lease (Form ADM) might be better for complex changes. Best Practices for Use
Reference the Original: Ensure the date and property address on Form EL exactly match the original lease to avoid any legal ambiguity.
Check Local Ordinances: If your property is in a rent-controlled area, consult with a California real estate attorney before modifying rent terms, as specific local caps may apply.
Use Official Software: Licensed real estate professionals can access the most current version through Lone Wolf Transactions (zipForm Edition). CAR Form EL, Revised 6/23 - SEC.gov
Many agents and landlords confuse extension with renewal, but C.A.R. makes a clear distinction:
Use EL-11/11 when: A tenant needs 1, 3, or 6 additional months, and you do not want to renegotiate security deposits, pet policies, or maintenance procedures.
If your property is covered by AB 1482, you cannot refuse to extend a lease or terminate a tenancy without "just cause." However, Form EL-11/17 (note the newer version) or a well-executed EL-11/11 that includes a fixed end date does not create a perpetual right to renew. At the end of the extension, if the tenant remains, you may have a holdover. But if you want them out, you must still follow just cause procedures if they have been there 12+ months. Consult a lawyer for AB 1482 extensions.