Free Residential Lease Agreement Template
A written lease protects both sides: it locks in the rent, the term, who handles repairs, and what happens when things go wrong. This free printable template covers the clauses every residential lease needs. Fill in the blanks, have all adult tenants sign, and keep a signed copy for each party.
- Security deposit caps: many states limit deposits to 1–2 months' rent; a few have no cap. Never exceed your state's maximum.
- Deposit return deadline: typically 14–60 days after move-out, with an itemized deduction statement required.
- Late fees: several states cap late fees or require a grace period (commonly 5 days) before a fee applies.
- Landlord entry notice: most states require 24–48 hours' written notice; a few specify no minimum.
- Terminating month-to-month tenancies: commonly 30 days' notice, but some states require 60 days.
- Rent control / stabilization: some cities limit rent increases regardless of what the lease says.
Residential Lease Agreement
Read the state variance note above and adjust bracketed items to your state law before signing.
1. Parties
This Lease is between Landlord: and Tenant(s): .
2. Premises
Landlord leases to Tenant the property at (the “Premises”), for residential use only.
3. Term
Lease begins and ends . If Tenant remains after the end date with Landlord's consent, the tenancy continues month-to-month under the same terms, terminable with written notice as required by state law.
4. Rent
Monthly rent is $ , due on the day of each month, payable to by (method / address). Rent is late if not received by .
5. Late Fee
A late fee of $ (or % of rent, if permitted by state law) applies to rent received after the grace period described above. Returned payments incur a $ fee.
6. Security Deposit
Tenant has paid a security deposit of $ . The deposit will be returned within the time required by state law after move-out, less lawful deductions documented in an itemized statement.
7. Utilities & Services
8. Occupancy & Use
Only the tenants named above and their minor children may occupy the Premises. No subletting or assignment without Landlord's prior written consent. No smoking inside the unit. Pets only as described in a signed pet addendum, if any.
9. Maintenance & Repairs
Tenant will keep the Premises clean and sanitary, promptly report maintenance issues in writing, and is responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear. Landlord will maintain structural elements and systems in habitable condition as required by law.
10. Alterations
Tenant may not paint, remodel, or alter the Premises without Landlord's prior written consent. Approved alterations become Landlord's property at move-out unless agreed otherwise in writing.
11. Entry by Landlord
Landlord may enter the Premises with advance written notice as required by state law (commonly 24–48 hours), except in emergencies. Entry is limited to reasonable times for inspections, repairs, showings, or as otherwise permitted by law.
12. Renter's Insurance
13. Notices
All notices under this Lease must be in writing and delivered to: Landlord at ; Tenant at the Premises (or forwarding address after move-out).
14. Default & Remedies
If Tenant fails to pay rent or violates this Lease, Landlord may pursue remedies allowed by state law, including written notice to cure or quit and, if uncured, eviction proceedings. Tenant is liable for rent through the end of the term or until the unit is re-rented, as state law allows, plus Landlord's reasonable enforcement costs.
15. Governing Law
This Lease is governed by the laws of the State of . If any clause conflicts with state law, state law controls and the remaining clauses remain in effect.
Signatures
Printed name:
Printed name:
Printed name:
Printed name: