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Landlords and Lessors

Landlords and lessors are vendors who provide space for campaign operations. This may be in the form of an office, storefront, or simply cubicle space in another organization’s office.

Before Beginning Work on a Campaign

Leases, subleases, or rental agreements between a campaign and landlord or lessor must be signed and dated before the campaign occupies the space. Any changes to the terms after signing must be documented in an addendum to the original agreement.

Lease, Sublease, or Rental Agreement – Details to be Included
  • Landlord/lessor name and address
  • Committee name and address
  • Tenancy dates
  • Monthly rent and due date
  • Specifics—size of space, utilities and services covered, furniture or office equipment included, access to common space, etc.
  • Amount of security deposit and date for return
  • Extension and termination provisions
  • Dated signatures of landlord
  • Dated signature of candidate or treasurer

 Landlords and lessors should also consider the following while drafting the lease:

  • Specific tenancy dates: Discuss with the campaign whether they will pay office rent through both the primary and general election dates, and whether there will be any post-election occupancy of the space. If occupancy dates are dependent on the outcome of an election, be sure to specify this in the lease. Renewal options may be stipulated in the lease.

NOTE: CFB-covered campaigns that are not in a general election are reasonably expected to terminate their use of campaign spaces within thirty days of the primary election.

  • Fair market value of the space: Be prepared to explain any difference between the office rent and the typical fair market value of the space, if applicable.
  • Deposit specifications: The deposit amount, including details on whether the deposit will be returned or applied toward rent payment, must be agreed to in the lease.

During the Campaign

While working on a campaign, landlords and lessors should document any change in rent, payment, or due dates or additional furniture, utilities, services, or equipment provided, through an addendum to the original agreement and/or supplemental invoices. Campaigns may be required to provide a written explanation of any increase or decrease in rent. 

Invoices (for additional furniture, utilities, services, or equipment provided) – Details to be Included
  • Vendor name and address
  • Committee name, not just the name of the candidate
  • For services rendered: period covered by invoice and detailed description of services provided
  • For goods provided: description of goods, quantity, cost per item and total cost
  • Sales tax if applicable (NOTE: political campaigns are not tax exempt)
  • Amount due
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