Lease Agreement: what landlords and tenants should understand
A lease agreement (or rental agreement) sets out the rights and obligations of a landlord and tenant for a property. Monthly rentals and fixed-term leases are both covered. The terms in a lease have real financial and legal consequences. Taking fifteen minutes to read it carefully is worth it.
Lease Agreement
When to use a Lease Agreement
- Renting a residential apartment, house, or room for a fixed term (typically 12 months)
- Month-to-month rental arrangements where either party can terminate on short notice
- Commercial property rentals (commercial leases have different legal rules; consult a lawyer)
- Subletting your apartment to another tenant with your landlord's permission
Key terms in a lease agreement
These clauses appear in most lease agreement documents. Knowing what they mean helps you review faster.
Rent amount and due date
The monthly amount, the day it's due (usually the 1st), and the grace period before late fees apply. Late fees are often capped by state law.
Security deposit
The upfront amount held against damages or unpaid rent. Most states cap security deposits (often at 1–2 months' rent) and require return within 14–30 days of move-out, with an itemized list of any deductions.
Lease term and renewal
Start date, end date, and what happens at the end: does the lease auto-renew, convert to month-to-month, or expire? Auto-renewal clauses are sometimes easy to miss.
Permitted occupants
Who is allowed to live in the property. Most leases list occupants by name. Having an unlisted occupant can be grounds for termination.
Pet policy
Whether pets are allowed, any pet deposit or monthly pet fee, and any breed or size restrictions. Verbal agreements to allow pets mean nothing if the lease says no.
Maintenance and repair responsibilities
Who is responsible for what. Landlords generally must maintain habitable conditions; tenants are typically responsible for minor maintenance and damage they cause.
Sign a Lease Agreement with InkRobin
Upload your lease agreement, place a signature field, and send a link. The recipient signs in their browser. No account, no app. Free for up to 5 documents per month.
Questions
- Can a lease agreement be signed electronically?
- In most US states, yes. Electronic signatures on residential leases are valid under UETA and the ESIGN Act. Some states have specific rules; check your state's landlord-tenant law. InkRobin produces a simple electronic signature (SES) valid under ESIGN/UETA.
- Can a landlord refuse to let me e-sign?
- Yes. A landlord can require a wet (ink) signature if they prefer. Electronic signatures are valid when both parties consent to use them.
- What happens if I sign a lease and then want to leave early?
- You're generally liable for rent through the end of the term unless the landlord can re-rent the unit (most states require landlords to 'mitigate damages'). Review the early termination clause before signing.
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