The global shift towards remote and hybrid work has fundamentally changed our relationship with our homes. For millions of people, a residence is no longer just a place to live; it is also a place of work. This has created a new set of challenges and considerations for the landlord-tenant relationship, prompting the evolution of new lease clauses designed to address the realities of the modern, work-from-home era of 2024.

One of the most important new clauses is the “Home Business” or “Use of Premises” clause. Traditional leases often contain a clause restricting the property to “residential use only.” However, the line between residential and commercial use has blurred. A modern lease needs to clarify what is permissible. It might explicitly permit office-based work that does not involve clients visiting the property, but prohibit activities that could increase foot traffic, noise, or liability, such as running a daycare or a repair shop from the apartment. This protects the landlord and other residents from disturbances.