$200/month premium for month-to-month tenancy
A $200/month premium for going month-to-month is steep but enforceable. Landlords price in flexibility risk — try to negotiate it down or lock in a shorter renewal.
Is this clause in your lease?
Upload your lease and we'll flag this clause (and every other red flag) in 30 seconds — free.
What it actually means
Month-to-month tenancies give you flexibility but cost the landlord certainty. A premium compensates for that — $100–$150 is common; $200 is high-end.
This is legal in most states. Negotiate: a 6-month renewal with no premium may be cheaper than 6 months of $200 surcharges.
What it looks like in a lease
"Upon expiration of the initial term, this Lease shall continue on a month-to-month basis with monthly Rent increased by $200."
What to watch for
- Whether it kicks in automatically at lease end
- Whether it stacks with rent increases
How to negotiate it
Counter with a 3- or 6-month extension at the current rate, or a lower premium ($100).
When it crosses into a red flag
- Premium exceeds 15% of rent
- No option to re-sign a fixed term
Frequently asked questions
Can I avoid the premium?
Sign a new fixed-term lease before your current one expires. Most landlords prefer the certainty.
Want to know how this works in your specific state? Read the Landlord notice to end a lease guide, or pick your state from the guide index.
Related clauses
General information, not legal advice. Clauses are interpreted differently across states and courts. For a binding interpretation of your specific lease, consult a licensed attorney in your state.
