Things to Include in you Lease

[Brian Foy]

Good Morning BP Members,

I am currently making my first lease for my rental property. I wanted to get some input on things to include in the lease and get everyone's thoughts on other things they might include as well. below is a list of general things i have already included

1.address rented

2.dates of lease

3. Payment (due date, type accepted, location accepted, late fees, returned check fees, security deposits, utilities)

4. no sub letting

5. maintenance 

6. no repairs and alterations without consent

7. violating laws and disturbances

8.pets

9. landlord's right to access

10. extended absences by tennant

11. possession of the premises

12. rules and regs

13. payment for court costs if necessary 

14. disclosures if any exist

15. accepting legal papers

16. validity

17. grounds for termination

I've read on here about people including things like rent goes up 3% annually on renewal in their tenant's lease. Is there any other good things i am missing that you guys would recommend or anything you discovered worthwhile to include.

thanks in advance

[Deanna McCormick]

Check on line for local housing authority, in Minnesota we have the Minnesota Multi Housing Association, they have leases that are ready to go and have everything needed to cover what's needed for rental. The courts recognize these leases as they are drafted with proper language and hold up in court. 

I would check with your local housing court division county you are in and ask a county clerk if you can't find a listing. Or go to a huge apartment complex and grab a lease and check that over.

Usually you have a lease and then you have a policy packet the lease refers to. Addendum's for Crime Free/ Drug Free, Lead, Pets, and other things can be added.  Resident signs all and you keep copies