Rental agreement checklist for tenants and landlords

A clear written agreement prevents most rental disputes. Use this checklist when you sign. It is general information, not legal advice, and registration and stamp duty rules differ by state, so check what applies where you live. Many landlords use shorter agreements, such as 11 months, but you should confirm the rules that apply to you.

The basics

• Full names and addresses of the landlord and the tenant.
• The exact address of the property and what is included, such as parking or furniture.
• The start date and the end date of the agreement.

Money

• Monthly rent, the due date each month and how it will be paid.
• Security deposit amount, and when and how it will be returned.
• Who pays electricity, water, gas, internet and maintenance.
• Any yearly rent increase, written as an amount or a percentage.

Rules for living there

• How many people will live in the property.
• Rules on pets, guests, subletting and noise.
• Who handles repairs, and what counts as a tenant repair.

Leaving

• Notice period for each side, and whether there is a lock-in period.
• What happens if the tenant leaves early.
• Condition the property must be left in, and how the deposit is settled.

Keep records

Each person should keep one signed copy. Keep rent receipts and payment proof for every month.

How RentEase helps

In RentEase, the landlord can add the agreement end date and the yearly increase, and both sides get reminders before it ends. RentEase can also print a plain-language draft agreement from the details already in the register. It is a draft with blanks, not legal advice, so have it checked before signing.