Can a lease be signed electronically?

Yes. Electronic signatures are legally valid in the U.S. under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA in most states, provided the parties intended to sign and records are retained and reproducible.

Is notarization required for commercial leases?

Not usually required for enforceability, but some states or recording practices may require a notary or witnesses for leases exceeding a statutory period or for recordation; check state law before execution.

Who must sign on behalf of a company?

An authorized officer or agent with delegated authority should sign; obtain a corporate resolution or proof of authority if there is any doubt to avoid later challenges.

How do I correct a signed lease?

Amendments should be documented in a written amendment signed by all parties; avoid handwriting changes on executed copies unless all parties initial and date each change.

How long should I keep lease records?

Retain leases for the term plus a recommended minimum of 3–7 years depending on tax, industry, and HIPAA obligations; follow IRS guidance (IRC §6501(a)) and industry rules.

Can I revoke or cancel a signed lease?

Revocation typically requires mutual agreement or specific contractual termination rights; unilateral rescission is limited and may expose parties to damages for breach.

Electronic Signature
Templates
Miscellaneous
Business Leasing Contract

Business Leasing Contract

This template is fully customizable. Edit the text, fill out the fields, and send it for signature. Give it a try!

BUSINESS LEASING CONTRACT

Parties

Lessor Name:

Lessor Address

Lessee Name:

Lessee Address

Recitals

WHEREAS, Lessor is the lawful owner of the commercial premises described below and is authorized to lease such premises; and

WHEREAS, Lessee desires to lease the premises from Lessor for the permitted business purposes and Lessor agrees to lease the premises to Lessee under the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the parties intend this Agreement to set forth the entire understanding between them with respect to the lease of the premises.

Premises

Premises Description

Scope of Work

The parties agree that the use of the Premises shall be limited to the following business activities and related operations:

Describe Permitted Use and Work to be Performed

Payment Terms

Base Rent: $ per month.

Security Deposit Payment Schedule / Additional Charges

Late Fee: If rent is not received within days after the due date, Lessee shall pay a late fee of of the overdue amount or the maximum permitted by law, whichever is less.

Term and Termination

Lease Term Commencement Date: . Lease Term Expiration Date: .

Either party may terminate this Agreement without cause by giving the other party written notice at least days prior to the effective termination date. Termination for cause may be immediate in the event of a material uncured breach as set forth in this Agreement.

Maintenance; Repairs; Utilities

Lessee shall, at Lessee's expense, keep the Premises and all improvements in good order and repair, reasonable wear and tear excepted. Lessor shall be responsible for structural repairs unless damage is caused by Lessee or Lessee's invitees. Lessee shall pay for all utilities used on or servicing the Premises unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Insurance and Indemnity

Lessee shall maintain commercial general liability insurance with limits not less than those customarily required for similar businesses and shall name Lessor as an additional insured where required. Lessee shall indemnify, defend and hold Lessor harmless from and against any claims, liabilities, losses or expenses arising out of Lessee's use of the Premises, except to the extent caused by Lessor's gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Confidentiality

For purposes of this Agreement, "Confidential Information" means nonpublic business, financial, technical, or other information disclosed by one party to the other in connection with the lease. Each party shall not disclose Confidential Information to third parties and shall use at least the same degree of care to protect Confidential Information as it uses to protect its own confidential information, but in no event less than reasonable care. Confidential Information shall not include information that is or becomes publicly available through no breach of this Agreement or that is rightfully obtained by the receiving party from a third party.

Assignment and Subletting

Lessee shall not assign this Agreement or sublet the Premises, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of Lessor, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld. Any attempted assignment or sublease without such consent shall be void and constitute a default.

Default and Remedies

If either party defaults in the performance of any material obligation under this Agreement and fails to cure such default within thirty (30) days after written notice (or a shorter period if required to prevent irreparable harm), the non-defaulting party may pursue any remedy available at law or in equity, including termination of this Agreement and recovery of damages.

Notices

Notices under this Agreement shall be in writing and delivered by hand, certified mail (return receipt requested), or commercial courier to the addresses set forth below or to such other address as either party may designate by notice in accordance with this section.

Lessor Notice Address Lessee Notice Address

Compliance with Laws; Environmental

Lessee shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations in the use and occupancy of the Premises. Lessee shall not generate, store, release or dispose of hazardous substances on the Premises in violation of law. Lessee is responsible for any environmental contamination caused by Lessee's operations.

Governing Law; Dispute Resolution

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state of without regard to its conflict of laws principles. Any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be resolved by binding arbitration or in a court of competent jurisdiction in that state, at the election of the party seeking relief.

Entire Agreement; Amendments

This Agreement, together with any exhibits or written schedules attached hereto, constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements, understandings and negotiations. Any amendment or modification of this Agreement must be in writing and signed by both parties.

Severability; Successors

If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.

Additional Provisions

Special Conditions or Attachments (if any)

Lessor Printed Name:

By:

Date:

Lessee Printed Name:

By:

Date:

What a Business Leasing Contract Covers

A Business Leasing Contract is a written agreement that sets the legal terms for renting commercial space, equipment, or other assets between a lessor and a business lessee. It defines the lease term, rent or payment schedule, permitted uses, maintenance responsibilities, insurance, default remedies, renewal and termination conditions, and allocation of taxes and utilities. This contract establishes each party's obligations and remedies and can include exhibits such as floor plans, equipment lists, or work scopes. Properly completed, it supports enforceability in court and clarifies performance expectations for both parties.

Why a Clear Business Leasing Contract Matters

A clear leasing contract reduces disputes by defining rent, term length, permitted use, and responsibilities. It protects both landlord and tenant interests, helps manage risk, and creates an enforceable record to support collection, eviction, or insurance claims.

Who Typically Prepares and Signs This Document

Legal counsel, facilities managers, or procurement teams often review the final draft before signature to confirm compliance with local law and company policy.

Commercial landlords managing office, retail, or industrial space
Business owners or corporate real estate teams negotiating occupancy terms
Equipment vendors or finance companies leasing machinery or technology

Roles Who Should Sign and Approve

Authorized Officer

A corporate officer or partner with authority to bind the business should sign on behalf of the lessee. Ensure the signer has board or delegated authority to avoid contract challenges later.

Property Manager

Landlords typically have property managers or leasing agents execute the agreement and manage ongoing obligations; include printed name, title, and contact information for service of notices.

Essential Clauses to Include

A professional Business Leasing Contract contains standard sections that allocate risks, set payment mechanics, and define operational rules. Include clear language and exhibits for enforceability.

Lease Term

Exact start and end dates, options to renew, and early termination rights; specify calendar dates and any holdover terms.

Rent & Payments

Base rent, escalation clauses, late fees, payment method, and who pays taxes, utilities, and common area maintenance charges.

Use and Access

Permitted uses, hours of operation, signage rules, and access rights for maintenance and inspections.

Maintenance & Repairs

Which party handles repairs, replacement obligations, routine maintenance schedules, and responsibility for capital improvements.

Default Remedies

Events of default, cure periods, landlord remedies including eviction, acceleration, and collection of attorney fees.

Insurance & Indemnity

Required insurance types and limits, indemnity scope, and proof of coverage submission procedures.

Step-by-Step: Filling Out a Business Leasing Contract

Follow this sequence to complete the lease systematically and reduce revision cycles.

01

Prepare Parties: Confirm legal names and contact addresses for all parties.
02

Set Term and Rent: Enter start/end dates, rent schedule, and any escalations.
03

Allocate Responsibilities: Define maintenance, utilities, taxes, and insurance obligations.
04

Review & Sign: Have authorized signers execute and retain original copies.

Typical Workflow for Completing and Executing the Lease

A clear execution workflow reduces delays and ensures every step from negotiation to signature is documented.

Draft: Prepare initial lease draft and attach exhibits.
Negotiate: Exchange edits and agree on material terms.
Finalize: Produce a clean final version for signature.
Execute: Obtain signatures, notarizations if required, and distribute copies.

Configuring an Online Signing Workflow

Set up roles, authentication, and routing so each signer receives the correct fields in order.

Field	Configuration
Signer Order	Sequential or parallel routing per negotiation needs
Authentication	Email link, SMS code, or stronger ID verification
Conditional Fields	Show fields only when specific options are selected
Certificate	Attach completion certificate and audit trail

Digital Signing, File Formats, and Integration Needs

Choose tools that produce an audit trail, preserve original document fidelity, and meet any industry compliance needs.

File Types: PDF, DOCX, and editable templates are commonly required
Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace integrations streamline workflows
Authentication: Email, SMS, KBA, or advanced signer verification as needed

File Export, Copies, and Record Formats

After execution, store signed contracts in formats that preserve signatures and audit trails and integrate with your records management.

Signed PDF

Export a final, flattened PDF that includes a time-stamped certificate of completion and embedded audit trail to preserve legal evidence.

Editable DOCX

Keep an editable copy for internal reference or future amendments, ensuring version control and change logs.

Audit Record

Store the signing event log (IP, timestamps, authentication method) as a support record for dispute resolution.

Cloud Archive

Archive in enterprise storage (Box, Google Drive, or internal ECM) with access controls and retention policies.

Practical Tips to Avoid Disputes and Delays

Small drafting choices reduce ambiguity and minimize post-signature disagreements; apply these practices consistently.

Use precise dates and amounts

Specify calendar dates and exact dollar amounts rather than relative phrases; ambiguity can void clauses or extend litigation risk.

Attach relevant exhibits

Include floor plans, equipment lists, and maintenance schedules as numbered exhibits referenced in the main agreement.

Confirm signer authority

Document signatory authority with corporate resolutions or a completed W-9 to prevent future challenges to enforceability.

Maintain version control

Label drafts clearly and archive the executed copy in a secure, access-controlled repository with retention rules.

Key Milestones from Negotiation to Occupancy

Track essential milestones to coordinate moves, payments, and compliance tasks during lease setup and early performance.

01

Negotiation Complete

Finalize commercial terms and confirm exhibits are attached.

02

Signature Execution

All parties sign and dates are recorded.

03

Security Deposit Paid

Receive deposit cleared before possession is granted.

04

Move-In / Commencement

Tenant takes possession and rent obligations begin.

Timing Expectations for Common Lease Actions

Certain actions have standard timing; plan for review, signature, funding, and move-in to avoid operational delays.

Draft Review Period:

Allow 3–10 business days for initial legal and financial review.

Execution Window:

Sign within 7–14 days after final negotiation to lock terms agreed upon.

Deposit Clearance:

Expect bank clearance of security deposit within 3–5 business days.

Insurance Proof:

Provide certificate of insurance prior to occupancy, typically 5–10 days.

Recordkeeping:

Distribute executed copies to all parties within 48 hours of final signature.

Common Preparation Mistakes to Avoid

Leaving the lessee name as a DBA instead of the registered legal entity can prevent enforcement against the correct party.
Using vague terms for rent increases like 'market rate' without a defined index invites disputes and litigation.
Failing to attach exhibits such as a site plan or equipment list can create ambiguity about what is included in the lease.
Not confirming signer authority or failing to include a signer title increases the risk of later challenges to validity.

Risks and Consequences of Incorrect or Missing Information

Enforceability Risk: Missing legal name

Financial Liability: Unspecified charges

Operational Delay: Late insurance certificates

Tax Exposure: Incorrect entity reporting

Default Acceleration: Unclear cure periods

Deposit Forfeiture: Improper notice handling

eSignature Provider Comparison — Pricing and Key Features

Compare starting prices and common features for popular eSignature vendors to assess cost and compliance fit for lease execution.

	signNow	DocuSign	Adobe Sign	PandaDoc	HelloSign
Starting Price	$8/user/mo	$15/user/mo	$14/user/mo	$19/user/mo	$15/user/mo
Free Trial	7-day free trial	Varies by plan	Varies by plan	Varies by plan	Varies by plan
Bulk Send	Yes	Varies by plan	Varies by plan	Varies by plan	Varies by plan
Audit Trail	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
HIPAA Compliant	Yes	Varies by plan	Varies by plan	Varies by plan	Varies by plan

Real-World Examples of Business Lease Execution

These brief examples show how organizations used online signing and clear contracts to streamline leasing.

Optica Ventures

Optica digitized leases to speed execution and reduce errors

The team deployed online templates and guided fields to reduce negotiation cycles
As COO Brian Fitzgibbons noted, the interface simplified internal work and made it easier for customers to complete leases quickly while ensuring consistent data capture for compliance and accounting.

Martin Properties

A regional landlord centralized lease signing for mobile agents

They used secure online execution to close deals remotely
Founder Tim Martin reported the firm could process and execute documents online with compliance controls and security, enabling faster move-ins and fewer paper-based delays for tenants and staff.

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Leasing Contracts

Answers to common execution, notarization, signature authority, and retention questions for business leasing contracts.

Need help? Contact support

Can a lease be signed electronically?
Yes. Electronic signatures are legally valid in the U.S. under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA in most states, provided the parties intended to sign and records are retained and reproducible.
Is notarization required for commercial leases?
Not usually required for enforceability, but some states or recording practices may require a notary or witnesses for leases exceeding a statutory period or for recordation; check state law before execution.
Who must sign on behalf of a company?
An authorized officer or agent with delegated authority should sign; obtain a corporate resolution or proof of authority if there is any doubt to avoid later challenges.
How do I correct a signed lease?
Amendments should be documented in a written amendment signed by all parties; avoid handwriting changes on executed copies unless all parties initial and date each change.
How long should I keep lease records?
Retain leases for the term plus a recommended minimum of 3–7 years depending on tax, industry, and HIPAA obligations; follow IRS guidance (IRC §6501(a)) and industry rules.
Can I revoke or cancel a signed lease?
Revocation typically requires mutual agreement or specific contractual termination rights; unilateral rescission is limited and may expose parties to damages for breach.

be ready to get more

Join over 28 million airSlate SignNow users

Sign Now