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Formswift: Create a watertight lease agreement form

Protect yourself and your tenant throughout their tenancy. Craft the perfect document with our easy-to-use lease agreement template.

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A homeowner makes notes as they put the finishing touches to their lease agreement on their computer.

What is a lease agreement?

A lease agreement form is a real estate document between a landlord (“lessor” or “property owner”) and a tenant (“renter” or “lessee”). It's also known as a rental agreement or rental contract.

Each lease agreement is a written record of the rental agreement. It outlines the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of both parties throughout the tenancy.

These can change slightly based on state law or federal laws—meaning it’s important you know exactly what to include, based on your state.

An example of a residential lease agreement.

When should you use a lease agreement?

You can use a lease agreement whenever you’re entering into a rental lease agreement, whether it’s for residential or commercial purposes.

The right lease agreement template will help establish clear expectations and protect the rights of landlord and tenant. That could go a long way to helping you avoid potential disputes in the future.

A homeowner sat in front of their sofa, looking through their property’s paperwork.

What types of lease agreements exist?

Lease agreements come in various types, each suitable for different rental situations.

Residential lease agreements

Are used for renting residential properties such as apartments, houses, or condominiums.

Commercial lease agreements

Are designed for renting properties used for commercial or business purposes, such as office spaces, retail stores, or industrial buildings.

Month-to-month rental agreements

Offer flexibility by allowing the lease to renew on a month-to-month basis. They are suitable for short-term or temporary rental arrangements, rather than fixed-term leases.

Sublease agreements

Occur when a tenant rents out a property to another individual, known as a subtenant. This type of agreement establishes the relationship between the original tenant, the subtenant, and the landlord. This is called “subletting”.

What clauses are included in a lease agreement?

Lease agreements typically include various clauses that address important terms of the agreement or rental agreement. Some clauses found in lease agreements are particularly common.

These clearly set out the monthly rent amount, due dates, accepted payment methods, and any late fees if the rent is not paid on time. They may also include any details of future rent increases.

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This outlines the amount of the security deposit, how it can be used, and how it can be returned to the tenant at the end of the lease term.    

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No surprise, these define the responsibilities of the landlord and tenant regarding property maintenance, repairs, and upkeep.

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A common clause included to set limits on the number of people allowed to live in the rental unit. It will also cover any restrictions on subletting or additional occupants.

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These clauses outline the start date of the tenancy, the notice period required for the termination of a lease, and how the lease can or will be renewed. Any fees or conditions should also be mentioned.

An illustration of someone signing a tenancy renewal form.

Frequently asked questions

Lease agreements aren’t legally required in all situations. However, having a written lease agreement offers protection and clarity for the landlord and tenant. It’s highly recommended to use one to avoid misunderstandings.

A lease agreement clearly outlines the responsibilities of those entering into the agreement—including the rights of the landlord, and the tenant’s rights. This ensures everyone is on the same page to help avoid potential disputes.

A well-drafted lease agreement offers protection to the landlord and renter throughout the tenancy. This protects the interests of the landlord and tenant, providing a framework for resolving any conflicts in the future.

A lease agreement typically includes provisions related to the security deposit, specifying the conditions under which the landlord can withhold it, such as property damage. How it can be returned is also covered in this section.

By detailing the amount, due date, and acceptable payment methods, a lease agreement ensures transparency and accountability regarding rent payments. It can also include information on late fees.

Lease agreements specify maintenance responsibilities, indicating who is responsible for repairs, regular upkeep, and care of the rental property.

If a tenant does want to move out sooner than their end date, it’s possible to terminate the lease agreement early.

However, terminating a tenancy early usually comes with certain consequences, such as penalties or loss of their deposit. It’s usually a good idea for landlords and tenants to refer to the terms outlined in the lease agreement to start with. If it’s still not clear, then speak to an attorney, just in case.

Breaking the terms of a lease agreement can lead to legal consequences—for the landlord, or the tenant. This can include eviction of the tenant, financial compensation, or other appropriate measures depending on the nature of the breach.

For example, if a tenant makes late rent payments, this could break the terms of the lease agreement.

Generally, tenants should seek the landlord's permission before making any changes to the property. Some lease agreements may have specific clauses addressing modifications or alterations.

Remember, lease agreements are vital tools that protect the rights and foster a harmonious landlord-tenant relationship. Understanding the purpose, types, and clauses of lease agreements is key to a successful rental experience.

Why waste time and energy reinventing the wheel? Our lease agreement template provides a solid foundation, covering all the essential elements such as lease terms, rental payment details, security deposits, and much more. You can customize it to your specific requirements, ensuring that no important detail is overlooked.

All you need to do is answer a few simple questions, create an account, then print or download your completed lease agreement.

By using our lease agreement template, you'll save valuable time. We've done the heavy lifting for you, so you can focus on what matters most: a successful and hassle-free rental experience.

Absolutely—our lease agreement template is designed to be customizable. You can easily add or remove clauses, modify terms, and tailor the document to meet your specific requirements. However, it's important to ensure that any modifications comply with local laws and regulations.

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