Standard Lease Agreement

Professional lease terms provided by Howardhomes

Important: This is a template for informational purposes. Both landlord and tenant should review with a legal professional before signing any lease agreement.

1. Parties to the Lease

This Lease Agreement ("Lease") is made and entered into as of _____________, 20___, by and between:

LANDLORD:

Name: _________________________________

Address: _______________________________

TENANT:

Name: _________________________________

Address: _______________________________

PROPERTY ADDRESS:

_________________________________________

2. Term of Lease

The term of this Lease shall commence on _____________ and shall terminate on _____________, unless sooner terminated in accordance with the terms hereof. The Lease shall automatically renew for additional _______ month periods unless either party provides written notice of non-renewal at least 30 days prior to the end of the lease term.

3. Rent and Payment Terms

Monthly Rent Amount

Tenant agrees to pay $_____________ per month as rent for the property.

Payment Due Date

Rent is due on the ______ day of each month. Rent shall be paid to the Landlord at: _________________________________

Late Payment Policy

If rent is not received by the due date, a late fee of $_____________ will be charged. Rent not received within ______ days is grounds for eviction.

Security Deposit

Tenant shall pay a security deposit of $_____________ upon signing this Lease. The security deposit will be held by the Landlord and returned within 15 days of move-out, less any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.

4. Utilities and Services

Tenant shall be responsible for payment of the following utilities and services:

Electricity
Gas/Water/Sewer
Trash Collection
Internet/Cable
HOA Fees: $_____________ per month

Landlord shall be responsible for: _________________________________

5. Maintenance and Repairs

Landlord's Responsibility: Landlord shall maintain the property in habitable condition and shall make repairs to the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC within a reasonable timeframe of receiving written notice.

Tenant's Responsibility: Tenant shall maintain the interior of the property, including keeping it clean and reporting maintenance issues in writing within 48 hours of discovery. Tenant shall pay for repairs resulting from Tenant's negligence or misuse.

Emergency Repairs: In case of emergency (fire, burst pipe, broken locks), Tenant may contact Landlord or maintenance immediately. If Landlord cannot be reached, Tenant may proceed with emergency repairs and provide receipts for reimbursement.

6. Rules and Restrictions

•

No Smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside the property and within 25 feet of entrances

•

Pets: _____________ Pets are/are not allowed. If allowed, a pet deposit of $_____________ applies

•

Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Excessive noise is grounds for lease violation

•

Guests: Guests may stay for up to ______ days. Extended stays require Landlord approval

•

Alterations: No drilling, painting, or permanent changes without written approval from Landlord

•

Subletting: Subletting is not permitted without written consent from Landlord

7. Landlord Access

Landlord may enter the property with 24 hours' written notice for the purpose of repairs, inspections, showings to prospective tenants or buyers, or in case of emergency. Tenant shall not unreasonably withhold access. Emergency entries do not require notice.

8. Security Deposit Return

Within 15 days after Tenant vacates the property, Landlord shall return the security deposit minus any deductions for:

- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Unpaid rent or utilities
- Cleaning costs (if unit is excessively dirty)
- Lease violations or outstanding fees

Landlord shall provide an itemized list of all deductions with receipts. Normal wear and tear is not deductible.

9. Early Termination

If Tenant wishes to terminate this Lease early, Tenant must provide ______ days' written notice. Tenant shall be responsible for:

• All rent through the end of the notice period
• An early termination fee of $_____________ (if applicable)
• Rent until Landlord finds a replacement tenant

⚠️ Important Legal Disclosures

Fair Housing

Landlord and Tenant agree to comply with all Fair Housing laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or familial status.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (if applicable)

If the property was built before 1978, Landlord must disclose presence or absence of lead-based paint hazards.

Mold Disclosure

Landlord discloses any known mold or water damage issues with the property.

Legal Disclaimer

This lease agreement template is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Both landlords and tenants should consult with a licensed attorney in their jurisdiction before entering into any lease agreement to ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws.

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