Legal Lease Agreement Checklist

Confirm the lease type (residential, commercial, etc.)

Verify the legal capacity of both landlord and tenant to agree.

Ensure the lease complies with local laws, zoning regulations, and housing codes.

Establish the lease term (start date, end date, and renewal options)

Confirm that the property has a clear legal title and is legally available for lease.

Check the condition of the property and perform a property inspection before lease signing.

Include the full names and contact information of the landlord and tenant

Define the address of the leased property.

Specify the type of lease (fixed-term, month-to-month, etc.)

Specify the rental amount, payment frequency (monthly, weekly), and due dates.

List the acceptable methods of payment (check, bank transfer, etc.)

Include details of any rent increases and the terms under which they will occur.

Specify the security deposit amount and conditions for its return

Outline any non-refundable fees (e.g., application fees, cleaning fees, etc.)

Clarify the use of the security deposit (e.g., damage, unpaid rent)

State the time frame for returning the security deposit after lease termination.

Define the tenant’s responsibilities (e.g., paying rent, keeping the property clean)

Clarify landlord’s responsibilities (e.g., property maintenance, repairs)

Address the maintenance of appliances, plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC

Specify any limitations on tenant use (e.g., no pets, no smoking, noise restrictions)

Outline the tenant’s obligation to comply with laws, including local housing regulations.

Specify the process for terminating the lease (e.g., notice periods, early termination)

Outline the procedure for lease renewal or non-renewal

Define penalties or fees for breaking the lease early.

Include options for lease extension, if applicable.

Address rules for entry into the property by the landlord (e.g., notice period)

Specify security measures (e.g., locks, alarm systems, lighting)

Determine whether tenants are required to obtain renters insurance.

Detail tenant’s responsibility for maintaining insurance for personal property

Specify the utilities included in the rent (e.g., water, gas, electricity)

Clearly state the tenant’s responsibility for other utilities (e.g., internet, cable)

Identify any additional services (e.g., trash removal, landscaping, parking)

Include a dispute resolution clause (e.g., mediation, arbitration)

Address what will happen in the case of non-payment of rent or eviction.

Define legal recourse for breaches of the lease agreement.

Specify the governing law and jurisdiction in case of a legal dispute.

Include a clause on indemnification, stating that tenants are responsible for any harm caused by their actions.

Specify restrictions on subletting or assignment of the lease

Include provisions for property modifications or improvements by the tenant.

Clarify any restrictions on personal property (e.g., no hazardous materials)

Outline the procedure for renewing or amending the lease in the future.

Provide spaces for both landlord and tenant signatures

Include a date for signing and execution.

Ensure all amendments or special provisions are initialed and dated by both parties.

Provide a copy of the signed lease to both parties.