Rental / Lease Agreement Templates

A lease agreement is a legal document made between a landlord who agrees to rent property to a tenant for payment. Before signing a lease, the tenant must commonly undergo a credit review and verify employment. Depending on its results, a security deposit may be required at the landlord’s discretion.

Last updated July 19th, 2024

A lease agreement is a legal document made between a landlord who agrees to rent property to a tenant for payment. Before signing a lease, the tenant must commonly undergo a credit review and verify employment. Depending on its results, a security deposit may be required at the landlord’s discretion.

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By Type (6)

Standard Lease Agreement – A fixed term lease commonly for a one-year period.
Commercial Lease Agreement – To rent property for any business or non-residential use.
Month-to-Month Lease Agreement – For tenancies that can be terminated at any time with one month’s notice.
Rent-to-Own Agreement – A lease that offers the option for the tenant to buy the property.
Roommate Agreement – A legally binding contract between the tenants on a property.
Sublease Agreement – For a tenant seeking to re-rent the property to someone else (subtenant).

How to Write a Lease

Tenant Requirements (pre-lease)

  • Rental Application – Provides information about the tenant and obtains their consent for a credit check.
  • Proof of Income – Pay stubs, bank statements, or a letter from an employer.
  • Government-issued ID – Such as a driver’s license or passport.
  • Credit Report – To view any current debts or liabilities.
  • References – To contact past landlords.

1. Basic Information

  1. Parties Involved
    • Landlord (lessor) – The owner or manager of the property.
    • Tenant (lessee) – The individual renting the property.
    • Occupant – A person who resides on the property but is not the tenant (e.g., partner, family, etc.)
  2. Property Description
    • Property Description – The street address of the property, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
    • Appliances – Such as refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, etc.
    • Furnishings – Furniture provided by the landlord.
    • Amenities – Such as fitness areas, swimming pools, parking, etc.

2. Rental Terms

  1. Lease Term – Start and end dates (commonly one year).
    • Move-in Date – When the tenant can take occupancy.
    • Pro-Rated Rent – If the tenant moves in early, it is the pro-rated rent the tenant will owe.
    • Renewal – The terms on how the lease can be extended.
  2. Rent – The amount the tenant pays each month.
    • Payment Instructions – The acceptable payment methods.
    • Late Fees – Penalty if rent is not paid on the due date.
    • Other Fees – If any other fees are required, the tenant must pay them at the start of the lease or each month.
  3. Security Deposit – An amount held by the landlord and refunded at the end of the lease (commonly one month’s rent).
    • Deposit Location – In some jurisdictions, it is required to disclose where the deposit is being held in a receipt.
    • Deductions – What is permitted to be deducted from the security deposit at the end of the lease term.
    • Returning – The conditions for refunding the deposit to the tenant.

3. Landlord’s Responsibilities

  1. Compliance with Laws – To ensure the property meets all building codes from local agencies.
  2. Maintenance – Any property repairs or maintenance.
  3. Pest Control – The eradication of bed bugs or other infestations.
  4. Utilities & Services – Any utilities covered by the landlord.

4. Property Rules

  1. Abandonment – If the tenant leaves the property for a specified time period.
  2. Guest Policy – The maximum number of guests allowed on the property and how long they can stay.
  3. Landlord’s Entry – The landlord’s process to enter the property for non-emergencies.
  4. Parking – Where tenants can park their vehicles and if a fee is required.
  5. Pets – If pets are allowed and any restrictions or deposits are required.
  6. Sanitary Condition – Maintaining a level of cleanliness.
  7. Smoking Policy – Whether allowed inside the property and which types of products.
  8. Subletting – Whether or not the tenant can re-rent (sublet) the property.

5. Addendums & Disclosures

  1. Co-Signer Addendum – Allows someone else to assume financial responsibility for the lease if the tenant fails to meet their obligations.
  2. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure & EPA Pamphlet – If the residence was constructed before January 1, 1978, the tenant must be made aware of the risk hazards of lead-based paint.
  3. Move-In Checklist – Both the landlord and tenant must complete and confirm the property’s condition on move-in and move-out (to protect the tenant’s security deposit).
  4. State-Specific Disclosures – If there are any required disclosures under State law, it should be mentioned in the lease.