C.A.R. Form EL (Extension of Lease) is a standard document released by the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.)
specifically designed to extend a fixed-term lease for a new fixed period. While the original version was released in November 2011 ( ), it has undergone revisions, such as the Revised 6/23 version, to comply with updated California laws. Purpose and Key Features
The primary purpose of Form EL is to extend an existing residential lease without drafting an entirely new agreement. It ensures that all original terms remain in effect unless specifically modified by the extension. Extension of Term : Clearly defines the new scheduled termination date. Rent Adjustments
: Provides a dedicated section to specify the new monthly rent amount. Security Deposit
: Allows for an increase in the security deposit if applicable. Incorporation of New Laws
: Modern versions (like the 6/23 revision) may include mandatory language regarding the Rent Cap and Just Cause Addendum (Form RCJC)
and requirements for landlords to provide functional stoves and refrigerators. Mutual Consent
: Requires signatures from both the landlord (housing provider) and the tenant to be legally binding. Essential Information for Completion
To accurately complete the form, the following details are typically required: Property Details : Full address of the rental property. Party Information : Legal names of all landlords and tenants.
: The date of the original lease agreement and the new end date for the extension. Financials
: The new monthly rental rate and any changes to the security deposit. Additional Terms
: Any other modifications, such as changes to parking, utilities, or maintenance responsibilities. Why Use Form EL? Continuity The original lease date and parties involved The
: It formally maintains the relationship between landlord and tenant, providing security for both parties. Simplicity
: It is much shorter than a full lease (often just one page) while still referencing the original contract for legal protection. Flexibility
: It can be used for short-term extensions (e.g., 6 months) or longer renewals (e.g., 1 year).
C.A.R. members can access the most current version of this form through the zipForm® platform or order physical copies through Local Association of REALTORS® stores step-by-step walkthrough of how to fill out the most recent version of this form?
EL - Extension of Lease - C.A.R. Business Products AOR Store
C.A.R. Form EL-11-11: Extension of Lease
This form is used when a landlord and tenant agree to extend the term of a lease. The form outlines the terms of the extension, including:
Key Features of C.A.R. Form EL-11-11:
When to Use C.A.R. Form EL-11-11:
Benefits of Using C.A.R. Form EL-11-11:
It's essential to note that C.A.R. forms are specific to California and may not be applicable in other states. If you're a real estate agent or property owner in California, it's crucial to use the correct C.A.R. forms to ensure compliance with state regulations. Key Features of C
Form EL-11/11 is for extensions (short to moderate time frames). If you want a full new term (e.g., another 12 months), you should execute a Lease Renewal (C.A.R. Form LTR) or a new Residential Lease. Using EL-11/11 for a year-long extension technically works, but it lacks provisions for new move-in inspections, updated disclosures, or rent control registration updates.
C.A.R. Form EL-11 (11/11) is a practical, time-saving tool for extending a California residential lease. However, its simplicity is also its limitation. It strictly extends the lease term and allows for rent changes—nothing more. Misusing this form to make other modifications can lead to legal ambiguity or unenforceable terms. Always ensure compliance with applicable local rent control ordinances and consider professional advice when in doubt.
Note: Legal forms and laws change over time. The 11/11 version has been superseded by later revisions (e.g., EL-14, EL-15). Always verify you are using the most current C.A.R. form available.
While there isn't a single famous "narrative" or legend about the C.A.R. Form EL (Extension of Lease)
, its story is one of a "silent workhorse" that has undergone major shifts due to California's intense regulatory environment. The Evolution of Form EL 11/11 The "11/11" designation refers to the version released in November 2011
. This specific iteration was part of a broader effort by the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.)
to standardize how landlords and tenants could quickly extend a fixed-term lease without needing to rewrite a 15-page document. Key "Plot Points" in the Form's History The "Simple Extension" Era
: Originally, the form was a straightforward one-page tool used primarily to change the termination date and adjust the rent amount. The 2020 Pivot (AB 1482)
: The most dramatic change to the use of this form occurred with the passage of Assembly Bill 1482
, California’s statewide rent control law. Suddenly, using a simple extension form became risky. Landlords now had to attach additional disclosures, like the Rent Cap and Just Cause Addendum (C.A.R. Form RCJC) , to remain compliant. The Modern Version
, the form was significantly revised again. It shifted terminology, replacing "Owner" with "Housing Provider" 3.4. Security Deposit
to better align with contemporary legal standards and added warnings that landlords should seek legal counsel if their property is subject to local rent caps. Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles Why It Matters
For many DIY landlords, the "story" of Form EL 11/11 is often one of a narrow escape. Before these standardized forms, many people used informal "handshake" emails or poorly drafted notes to extend leases, which often failed to hold up in court during eviction or rent dispute cases. The C.A.R. standard forms
The California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) Form EL, titled Extension of Lease, is a standard legal document used to extend an existing fixed-term residential lease for a new specified period. Released or notably revised around 11/11, this form simplifies the process of renewing a tenancy without requiring an entirely new lease agreement. Key Features of Form EL
Extension of Term: Explicitly defines the new termination date for the tenancy.
Rent Adjustment: Includes fields to update the monthly rent amount for the extension period.
Security Deposit: Allows for an increase in the security deposit if applicable.
Retention of Original Terms: States that all other terms and conditions of the original lease remain in full force and effect unless otherwise specified.
Compliance Warnings: Recent versions (such as the 6/23 revision) include advisories for housing providers regarding state or local rent increase caps and "Just Cause" eviction laws. When to Use This Form
Fixed-Term Renewals: Use this when both parties agree to extend a lease that is nearing its original expiration date for another fixed term (e.g., another 6 or 12 months).
Modifying Specific Terms: It serves as an addendum to change the end date and rent while keeping the rest of the contract intact. Important Considerations
Rent Cap and Just Cause (Form RCJC): Housing providers are often advised to attach C.A.R. Form RCJC if the property is subject to specific California rent control laws.
Current Versions: It is critical to use the most updated version (currently revised as of June 2023) to ensure compliance with newer California laws, such as requirements for providing appliances like stoves and refrigerators.
Authorized Use: C.A.R. forms are intended for use by real estate professionals and members. Unauthorized use is prohibited. You can find these forms through the C.A.R. Business Products Store or platforms like RentSpree for e-signatures.