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Signing A Lease

A lease is an oral or written contract between a landlord and a tenant. Your best protection is a written lease signed by both parties. Make sure your lease contains: (printable pdf version)

• The specific address, including apartment number, of the property.
• The lease must contain an adequate description of the property.
• The length of the lease.
• An explanation of the rent payment procedure, including late penalties and rent increases.
• A list of any utilities you are responsible for paying.
• Termination or renewal terms.
• The amount of security deposit.
• Who will be responsible for the taxes on the property?
• The correct name and address of the party to whom rent shall be paid.
• Whether you as the tenant are waiving or limiting any notice requirements before the landlord can evict you.
• What repairs you will be responsible for.
• What you will be responsible for when you move out i.e., cleaning carpets, painting, etc.
• Whether there are any limitations and/or restrictions upon what you can do with the property, i.e. having pets, noise, certain appliances, etc.
• Whether the landlord is reserving any part of the property for his or her use.
• When and under what circumstances the landlord may enter your premises.
• The name, phone number and complete address for the party you should contact for repairs or problems with the property.
• A listing of all the tenants for the property.
• What will happen if one of your roommates leaves?
• The name, complete address and phone number of the landlord.
• Who will be responsible for the upkeep and damage to the common areas?
• Who will be responsible for injuries suffered by persons who use the common areas of the property?
• Who will provide insurance to cover injuries that are suffered in the common areas?