Residential Rental Lease Agreement Template

A residential lease agreement is the most important document in any landlord-tenant relationship. It defines the legal terms of the tenancy and protects both the landlord's property and the tenant's rights. Without a comprehensive written lease, disputes about rent increases, property damage, maintenance responsibilities, and lease termination can become legally and financially costly.

This residential lease agreement template covers all standard provisions required in a comprehensive tenancy agreement: parties and property description, lease term start and end dates, monthly rent amount and due date, security deposit amount and conditions for return, utilities and services included, pet policy, maintenance and repair responsibilities, rules regarding subletting and alterations, entry and inspection rights, and termination procedures.

The template also includes important clauses for late payment fees, right of re-entry for non-payment, and lease renewal terms. These provisions protect landlords while clearly communicating expectations to tenants upfront.

Important: Landlord-tenant law varies significantly by state and local jurisdiction. Always review your local laws or consult a local attorney before using this template.