A Member/Member-elect may lease a storage space for official use within the Congressional District.
The lease for the 118th Congress must commence no earlier than January 3, 2023, and terminate by no later than January 2, 2025.
The House Storage Lease Attachment (“Attachment”) must accompany each Storage lease that is signed by the Member/Member-elect and paid from the MRA.
Storage Lease Approval Process
The House does not have a standard Storage lease but instead uses the Landlord’s lease.
The Member/Member-elect should give the Landlord a copy of the Storage Lease Attachment, which must be accepted by the Landlord without changes.
Prior to either party signing a lease, the Member/Member-elect must submit the proposed lease, accompanied by a copy of the Attachment, to the Office of Administrative Counsel (“Administrative Counsel”) via e-mail in PDF form (house.leases@mail.house.gov) or fax (202-226-0357) for review to ensure the lease complies with Federal law and House rules. If the Member/Member-elect executes a lease prior to Administrative Counsel review and the lease is subsequently determined to be non-compliant, payments cannot be charged against the MRA.
If changes are necessary, Administrative Counsel will contact the office of the Member/Member-elect to explain the changes that must be made to comply with Federal law and House rules.
If Administrative Counsel determines that the proposed terms and conditions of the lease comply with appliable law and House Rules and Regulations, Administrative Counsel will notify the Member/Member-elect to proceed with the signing of the lease.
After the lease is executed by both parties, the Lease and the Attachment must be sent to Administrative Counsel via e-mail in PDF form (house.leases@mail.house.gov) or fax (202-226-0357) for final approval. The Administrative Counsel will notify the Office of Finance that automatic monthly payments can begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Leasing a Storage Space
How long does it take to review a lease?
We attempt to review all leases within 24 hours of receipt.
Does the Member/Member-elect need to personally sign the lease?
Yes. Only the Member/Member-elect may sign.
Should the Landlord complete the W9/ACH Vendor Form?
Yes.
Why is a Storage Lease Attachment required?
The Attachment is designed to protect the House and its Members by ensuring that the Landlord/leasing company is aware of special terms that apply to a Member of Congress.
Can the lease include a payment for a security deposit?
The MRA cannot be used to pay a security deposit. However, the Member/Member-elect can use the Member/Member-elect’s personal funds to pay for a security deposit.
Can the rent payments be due on the first?
No. The Federal government pays rent in arrears by the last day of the month.
Can the Storage lease include state sales/use tax?
It depends on the state. Contact the Office of the General Counsel for a tax-exempt letter (202-225-9700).
Lease Termination
Can the Member terminate the lease before the expiration date?
Generally no, but the answer depends on the terms of a lease. If a lease is improperly terminated, the Member could still be financially responsible for the monthly payments. However, the Storage Lease Attachment includes a provision that will allow the Member to terminate the lease without penalty if the Member leaves office before the lease expires. Contact the Administrative Counsel (202-225-6969) for more information.