Lease/Rental Agreement
Jim Clark Co
Free Template
Lease/Rental Agreement
Updated November 6, 2025
A rental lease agreement outlines the arrangement between a landlord and tenant for the use of a property. It typically describes the lease term, rent amount, payment schedule, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and renewal details.
Types of Rental and Lease Agreements
Fixed-Term Lease Agreements
A fixed-term lease follows a defined schedule, typically lasting six months or one year. The agreement continues until the listed end date, with rent and other terms generally remaining consistent during that time. Fixed-term arrangements commonly reference longer occupancy periods and stable terms that stay in place for the duration of the lease.
Month-to-Month Rental Agreements
Month-to-month rentals work on a rolling schedule. The agreement continues automatically each month until either the renter or property owner gives notice. Rent and conditions usually stay the same from month to month, though they can change with proper notice. This structure appeals to people who need short-term options or who value flexibility over long commitments.
Comparing Fixed-Term and Month-to-Month Arrangements
- Length: Fixed-term leases run for a set period; month-to-month rentals renew automatically until notice is given.
- Rent Changes: Fixed-term rent stays steady for the term; month-to-month rent can change after proper notice.
- Renewal: Fixed-term agreements end or renew at a defined time; month-to-month rentals continue until ended.
Common Terms Found in Lease and Rental Agreements
Most lease or rental agreements share similar sections that describe how the rental arrangement works. These typically cover:
- Rent and Payment Terms: Amount due, due date, payment methods, and any late-fee details.
- Security Deposit and Fees: Deposit amount, handling process, and possible deductions.
- Term and Renewal Options: How long the agreement lasts and what happens when it ends.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Which party handles upkeep, maintenance, and repair requests.
- Occupancy and Subletting: How many people can live in the property and any subletting limits.
- Pets and Property Use: Whether pets are allowed and general property-use restrictions.
- Utilities and Services: Which utilities are included in rent and which are the tenant’s responsibility.
- Move-Out and Termination: Notice periods, early termination options, and deposit return details.
Lease Agreement Variations for Homes, Apartments, and Shared Rentals
Lease agreements often differ slightly based on property type. The overall structure is similar, but some sections are adjusted for context.
- Single-Family Homes: Commonly reference exterior maintenance, lawn care, and access to garages or yards.
- Apartments: Often focus on shared facilities, building rules, and common areas.
- Shared Spaces: Usually describe how residents share rooms or amenities such as kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry areas.
A Summary of Rental and Lease Agreements
Lease and rental agreements outline how a property is used and for what length of time. A fixed-term lease typically keeps conditions consistent for a defined period, while a month-to-month rental continues automatically until notice is given. By keeping the terms and duration in writing, these agreements provide a clear structure for rental arrangements.
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Lease/Rental Agreement
Jim Clark Co.
AgreementThis Lease Agreement ("Agreement") is made and entered into on , by and between:
ParticipantsTerms1. Premises and Term
Landlord agrees to lease to Tenant the premises located at the Property Address below.
The lease term shall begin on and end on , unless earlier terminated in accordance with this Agreement.
2. Rent and Payment
- Monthly Rent Amount: $
- Rent Due Date: The day of each month
- Late Fee: $ (if rent is unpaid after days)
Rent shall be paid to:
- Payee Name:
- Payment Address or Method:
3. Security Deposit
- Security Deposit Amount Collected: $
- Date Collected:
- Bank Holding Deposit: $
- Interest Rate (if applicable):
The security deposit shall be held in accordance with applicable law. Deductions may be made for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, or breach of lease terms. The remaining balance, if any, will be returned to the Tenant within days of lease termination, with an itemized list of any deductions.
4. Tenant Responsibilities
Tenant agrees to:
- Not sublet the premises or assign the lease unless written consent is obtained first from the Landlord.
- Be responsible for routine maintenance and cleanliness of the premises.
- Obtain prior written consent for any improvements or alterations.
- Refrain from the following activities:
Tenant agrees to pay for:
Utilities (electric, water, gas, etc.)
Renter’s insurance
Other:
Landlord shall pay for:
Property taxes
Structural maintenance
Other:
5. Eviction
Tenant may be evicted for:
- Failure to pay rent
- Repeated lease violations
- Engaging in illegal activity on the premises
- Causing significant damage to the property
Landlord shall follow applicable state laws and provide proper notice prior to initiating eviction proceedings.
6. Default and Remedies
A party shall be in default under this Agreement if they fail to comply with any term, condition, or obligation hereunder. Notice of Default shall be given in writing, and the defaulting party shall have days to cure the default.
If uncured, the non-defaulting party may:
- Terminate this Lease
- Seek damages and attorney’s fees
- Pursue any other remedies available under law
7. Amendments
This Lease may be amended only by mutual written agreement signed by both parties. Requests for changes must be submitted in writing with at least days’ notice.
8. Termination
This Agreement may be terminated:
- By mutual written consent
- By either party with days’ written notice prior to the lease end date
- For breach of any terms of this Agreement
Upon termination, Tenant shall vacate the premises and return all keys to the Landlord.
9. Dispute Resolution:
In the event of a dispute, both parties agree to attempt informal resolution. If unresolved, the dispute shall be resolved through:
Mediation
Arbitration
Litigation in a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of .
A breach of this Agreement includes, but is not limited to, failure to pay rent, unauthorized use of property, or violation of terms regarding occupancy, use, or care of the premises.
10. Entire Agreement
This document represents the full understanding between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements or understandings, whether written or oral. By signing below, the parties agree to the terms and conditions outlined in this Lease Agreement.
Signatures-
Click to signJohn Doe
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Click to signJim Clark
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