What Should be Included in a Tenant Lease Agreement?
A transparent and professional relationship between landlords and renters is built on a tenant leasing agreement. It is more than simply a piece of paper. So, what should be included in a tenant lease agreement?
When written well, the document outlines responsibilities, guarantees adherence to legal obligations, and averts conflicts. Bloom Property Management London Ontario explains what should be included in a tenant lease agreement to safeguard both parties.
Names of All Tenants and Occupants
List all of the adults who live in the rental home by name. To guarantee that all renters are equally liable for rent payments and lease compliance, each adult must sign the lease. This gives landlords the legal right to demand full payment from any signatory if one tenant defaults.
Description of the Rental Property
Give a thorough description of the rental property. Mention the unit number, complete address, and special features like parking spaces or storage places. To prevent misunderstandings, clearly mark off restricted areas, such as private portions or closed outbuildings.
Duration of Tenancy
Clearly state the length of the tenancy, whether it is a fixed-term lease or a short-term month-to-month contract. To avoid any confusion, clearly state the following:
Commencement date
Duration of the tenancy
Expiration date
Rental Price and Payment Terms
Indicate the monthly rent amount, the due date, and the accepted payment options (such as electronic transfer or check). Enforce late payment guidelines, including:
Grace periods
Late payment penalties
Fines for returned checks
Fees and Security Deposit
Be clear about the amount of the security deposit and its approved uses, such as paying for damages or past-due rent. Make it clear if renters must reload the deposit while the lease is in effect and outline the procedure after it expires.
In accordance with provincial regulations, provide a list of any non-refundable costs, such as cleaning or pet fees.
Policies for Repair and Maintenance
Describe renters' duties for keeping the property clean and alerting landlords to any risks or flaws. Indicate how repair requests should be submitted and include specifics about any limitations on changes, including the inability to paint without written consent.
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Landlord's Right to Enter the Property
Ensure that the conditions that allow landlords to access the rented property. Indicate the notice duration for non-emergency visits, such as maintenance or inspections, and the emergency exclusions. This safeguards landlords' interests while guaranteeing renters' right to privacy.
Rules and Policies
Enumerate key rules that, if broken, might result in eviction. These include pet policies, smoking bans, or prohibitions on unlawful activity. Clearly state what actions and obligations are acceptable, such as picking up after dogs or reducing loud noises.
Contact Information and Communication
Give tenants precise directions on how to communicate. Indicate whether formal requests for repairs or termination notice are required. By accepting emails or keeping a central record of conversations, procedures can be streamlined, and a recorded history can be provided in the event of a disagreement.
Mandatory Disclosures
Make sure that the lease has any legally needed disclosures, such as details on:
History of bed bugs
Lead-based paint
Local health and safety regulations
Legal advice from a landlord-tenant attorney can assist in guaranteeing adherence to national and provincial laws.
The Bottom Line
Now you have a detailed list of what should be included in a tenant lease agreement!
A well-written lease guarantees mutual understanding, clarity, and compliance, protecting landlords and renters. By including these essential components, you can create a rental agreement that is legally sound and professional.
Read: 7 tenant responsibilities when moving out of a rental.