Lessor resources
The Lease Contract Administration (LCA) team processes:
- real estate taxes,
- operating cost adjustments,
- step rents (rent adjustments), and
- changes of ownership/novations for GSA leases
- general administrative actions and questions as it relates to lease contracts
The LCA team also conducts annual audits of each lease file to ensure lease language is correctly reflected in our financial systems to pay lessors accurately and timely.
Real estate taxes
All relevant tax adjustment documentation (e.g., copies of paid tax receipts, invoices) may be submitted online via the Leasing Portal at https://leasing.gsa.gov.
Changes of ownership (novation)
FAR 42.1204 provides a framework for the government to recognize a change of ownership (i.e., when a lessor buys or sells a property where a government tenant resides). You may use the Sample Novation Agreement for GSA’s Leases [PDF - 366 KB] for reference to transfer ownership.
- PAYMENT: The current contract terms do not change and we will continue to pay the current lessor until the lease is amended to recognize the new owner as the lessor.
- PREPARATION: Start the process early—the standard Change of Ownership clause requires the lessor to inform us within 5 days of transfer of title.
- PROCESS: The seller must maintain its System for Award Management (SAM) registration. The buyer must provide proof of active SAM registration for All Awards for the Novation to be completed
To request a change of ownership, fill out this novation request form.
Changes and Compliance
Send your questions and comments to Leasing@gsa.gov.