The lease is an important legal document that defines expectations between the tenant and the landlord. Leases come in many different forms and lengths. Many landlords use legal counsel in creating their lease, while others write their own or use a boiler plate lease from a how to book. The basic element you might find in a lease includes the following:
-
Description of the Parties and the Premises:
- Names of all the tenants
- Landlord’s business addresses, phone number and emergency prone number
- Lease starts and end dates -
Rent amount and the due date
- Cash
- Personal check
- Money order or bank check -
Other charges
- Late fees
- Maintenance charges
- NFS charges -
Payment Location
- Drop off location, or mailing address -
Security Deposit
- How much is required (Security Deposit Settlement form) -
Utilities and Appliances
- Who is going to pay the utilities?
- What appliances are provided by the landlord?(i.e. washer, dryer, etc.)
- How about the washer and dryer?
- Is there a dishwasher or garbage disposal? -
Terms and Conditions
- Terms and conditions vary widely from landlord to landlord. This is typically a laundry list of do’s and don’ts, many of which were covered in the tenant responsibilities and the landlord responsibilities pages. Practically anything can be in this section so read it carefully. If it is in the lease, you are responsibly for it. If you (the tenant) do not like something, try to negotiate that item out or have it amended. Be sure to clarify who is responsible for maintenance and repairs, i.e. furnace filter replacements, snow removal, etc. -
Addendums
- Pet
- TV antennas and satellite dishes
- Lead base paint info, mold info, etc. -
Signature page
- Signed and dated by both parties -
Right of entry
- The lease should explain under what circumstances the landlord will enter premises.
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Get a copy of the lease from the landlord before you come in to sign it. Read it carefully and be ready to negotiate elements of the lease you have concerns with. Keep a copy of your lease where you can find it. The move-in and move-out inspections are critical, so be very detailed. You may be responsible for damages you did not cause. You can’t say “It was there when I moved in” if it is not on the move-in check list. Normal wear and tear does not include: holes in walls, stains on carpets, scratches on walls, cabinets and counter tops.
At the termination of your
lease you should receive an itemized list of charges
and settlement payment of your damage deposit within
30 days. |
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