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Updated January 11, 2024
Are you in need of a lease agreement? Look no further! Our rental and lease agreement templates make it easy for landlords and tenants to create a legally binding contract. Whether you're renting out a residential property or leasing commercial space, we have the perfect template for you. With our templates, you can ensure that your rights and obligations are clearly defined, providing you with peace of mind throughout the entire leasing process.
By State
We offer lease agreement templates for all 50 states, so you can be sure that your contract is compliant with local laws and regulations. From Alabama to Wyoming, we've got you covered. Our templates are easy to customize and can be tailored to suit your specific needs and requirements.
By Type (14)
We understand that different leasing situations require different types of agreements. That's why we offer a wide range of templates to choose from. Whether you're looking for a standard residential lease agreement, a lease for a commercial property, or even a roommate agreement, we have the perfect template for you. With just a few clicks, you can download the template in PDF, MS Word, or OpenDocument format and start creating your lease agreement.
Standard Residential Lease Agreement
Our standard residential lease agreement is perfect for landlords who are renting out their property for a fixed period, typically one year. This template covers all the essential terms and conditions, including rent amount, security deposit, and more.
1-Page Lease Agreement
For a simple and straightforward agreement, our 1-page lease agreement is the perfect choice. It's ideal for residential use and is designed to be easy to understand and complete.
Commercial Lease Agreements
If you're leasing retail, office, or industrial space, our commercial lease agreement templates are just what you need. They cover all the necessary details, such as rent amount, lease term, and specific provisions for commercial properties.
Condominium (Condo) Rental Agreement
For owners of condos who want to rent out their property, our condominium rental agreement template provides all the necessary terms and conditions. It ensures both parties are protected and aware of their rights and responsibilities.
Equipment Lease Agreement
Renting out tools, appliances, or other construction items? Our equipment lease agreement template is the perfect choice. It covers all the essential details, such as the duration of the lease and the responsibilities of both parties.
Family Member Rental Agreement
If you have a family member who wants to live in the same home as you, our family member rental agreement template is the solution. It ensures that both parties are clear on their obligations and helps maintain a healthy family dynamic.
Hunting Lease Agreement
For landlords who allow individuals to hunt on their property, our hunting lease agreement template is a must-have. It covers all the necessary details, including access to the property and hunting regulations.
Month-to-Month Lease Agreement
Our month-to-month lease agreement template allows for a flexible leasing arrangement. It enables both the tenant and landlord to have a binding agreement that can be changed or terminated with 30 days' notice.
Parking Space Rental Agreement
If you have a parking space available for lease, our parking space rental agreement template is the perfect choice. It ensures that both parties are clear on the terms and conditions of the lease.
Rent-to-Own Lease Agreement
Our rent-to-own lease agreement template is ideal for tenants who want the option to purchase the property they are renting. It outlines the rental payments and the terms of purchase.
Roommate (Room Rental) Agreement
For shared living arrangements among roommates, our roommate agreement template is the perfect choice. It covers all the essential details, such as rent allocation, utilities, and house rules.
Sublease (Sublet) Agreement
Our sublease agreement template is perfect for tenants who want to rent out part of their space to someone else. It ensures that all parties are aware of their obligations and responsibilities.
Vacation (Short-Term) Rental Agreement
If you're renting out your property for short-term stays, our vacation rental agreement template is essential. It covers all the necessary details, such as the duration of the stay and the terms of payment.
Weekly Rental Agreement
For tenants who pay rent on a weekly basis, our weekly rental agreement template is the perfect choice. It ensures that both parties are clear on the terms and conditions of the lease.
The Leasing Process (8 steps)
Renting or leasing a property can be a complex process, but our step-by-step guide makes it easy. From viewing the space to taking occupancy and everything in between, we've got you covered. Here are the eight steps of the leasing process:
- Tenant Views the Space
- Rental Application
- Landlord Runs a Consumer Report
- Verify References
- Approving the Tenant
- Lease Signing
- Taking Occupancy
- End of the Lease
Let's take a closer look at each step:
1. Tenant Views the Space
Before signing a lease agreement, the tenant usually views the space to ensure it meets their living standards. They will make an offer to the real estate agent, manager, or landlord based on the monthly rent amount.
2. Rental Application
To proceed with the rental process, the tenant must authorize a rental application and pay a small fee. This allows the landlord to legally perform a credit and background check.
3. Landlord Runs a Consumer Report
The landlord is recommended to run a consumer report to view the tenant's credit and background reports. However, it's important to note that some states have restrictions on the use of criminal records in the decision-making process.
4. Verify References
The tenant should provide references, such as past employers and landlords, on the rental application. The landlord should contact these individuals to inquire about the tenant's character and rental history.
5. Approving the Tenant
If the tenant is approved, the landlord should draft a lease agreement that includes the negotiated terms. This may include the monthly rent amount, security deposit, utilities, and other fees.
6. Lease Signing
Once both parties agree on the lease terms, they should sign the lease agreement. This makes the agreement legally binding. The tenant is commonly required to pay the first month's rent, security deposit, and any other fees due at the time of signing.
7. Taking Occupancy
Access to the property is granted on the first day of the lease term. If the tenant moves in before the lease start date, they will be required to pay a prorated amount of rent based on the number of days they entered early.
8. End of the Lease
At the end of the lease period, the landlord must decide whether to renew the lease. If the lease is not renewed, the tenant must move out and provide their forwarding address. The landlord must return the security deposit, less any deductions, in accordance with state law.
Landlord-Tenant Laws
Understanding landlord-tenant laws is crucial for both parties involved in a lease agreement. Here are some important areas to consider:
- Security Deposits Laws: Every state has specific laws regarding security deposits. These laws govern the maximum amount that can be charged and the process for returning the deposit.
- Landlord's Access: Landlords must provide notice to tenants before entering the property. The notice can be given in person, posted, or mailed.
- When is Rent Due?: Many leases have a grace period that allows tenants to pay rent without penalty for a certain number of days.
- Late Rent Fees: Some states have specific regulations on the maximum late fees that landlords can charge.
Disclosures and Addendums (12)
In addition to the lease agreement, there may be specific disclosures and addendums that need to be included. These documents provide additional information and protect the rights of both parties. Here are some common disclosures and addendums:
- Assignment of Lease
- Current Rent Balance Letter
- Eviction Forms
- Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
- Move-in / Move-out Inspection Checklist
- Notice to Enter
- Personal Guarantee (Guaranty)
- Rent Receipt
- Rent Increase Letter
- Security Deposit Receipt
- Security Deposit Return Letter
- Tenant Rejection Letter
How to Write
Writing a lease agreement can be overwhelming, but our templates make it easy. Here is a breakdown of the sections and what they include:
Section I. The Parties
- Date: The date when the agreement was written
- Landlord's name and mailing address
- Tenant's name(s)
Section II. Lease Type
- Choose between a fixed lease or a month-to-month lease. If it's a fixed lease, include the start and end dates. If it's a month-to-month lease, specify the start date and the notice period for termination.
Section III. Occupants
- List the names of all occupants who will be living on the premises.
Section IV. The Property
- Include the mailing address of the property, residence type (apartment, house, condo), the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
Section V. Purpose
- Specify the use(s) for the premises. For example, if it's a home in a commercial zone, indicate if running a business is allowed.
Section VI. Furnishings
- Indicate whether or not the property is furnished.
Section VII. Appliances
- Specify any appliances provided by the landlord.
Section VIII. Rent
- Include the monthly rent amount, the due date, and payment instructions.
Section IX. Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF Checks)
- Specify whether there will be a fee for paying with a check that has non-sufficient funds.
Section X. Late Fee
- Indicate if there is a late fee and specify when rent is considered late and the fee for each occurrence or day late.
Section XI. First Month's Rent
- Specify whether the first month's rent is due at lease signing or on the first day of the lease term.
Section XII. Pre-Payment of Rent
- Indicate if the tenant is required to pre-pay rent in advance.
Section XIII. Proration Period
- Specify the proration period if the tenant wants to move in before the lease start date and needs to pay a prorated amount of rent.
Section XIV. Security Deposit
- Indicate if a security deposit is required and specify the amount.
Section XV. Move-in Inspection
- Specify if a move-in inspection is required to document the condition of the property before the tenant moves in.
Section XVI. Parking
- Specify if parking is provided and if there is a fee for each vehicle.
Section XVII. Sale of Property
- Specify if the tenant will have the option to move out upon the sale of the property.
Section XVIII. Utilities
- Specify which utilities the landlord will be responsible for during the lease term.
Section XIX. Early Termination
- Indicate if the tenant has the option to terminate the lease early and any associated fees.
Section XX. Smoking Policy
- Specify the smoking policy on the premises.
Section XXI. Pets
- Establish a pet policy, including the number of pets allowed, types, and weight restrictions.
Section XXII. Waterbeds
- Specify if waterbeds are allowed on the premises.
Section XXIII. Notices
- Provide the landlord's address for official notices. Including the tenant's address is also recommended.
Section XXIV. Agent/Manager
- Provide the name, telephone, and email of any agent or manager responsible for maintaining the property.
Section XXVII. Lead Paint
- Attach the lead-based paint disclosure form if the premises were built before 1978.
Section XLIX. Additional Terms and Conditions
- Include any additional terms and conditions that need to be written.
Creating a rental or lease agreement has never been easier. With our templates, you can ensure that your rights and obligations are clearly defined, providing you with peace of mind throughout your leasing journey. Download one of our templates today and create a high-quality document that suits your specific needs.