Establishing secure connection…Loading editor…Preparing document…

Sample Lease Agreement

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

Lease of Unfurnished Apartment

Lease Agreement made on the (date),

between , of

hereinafter called Lessor, and

of

hereinafter called Lessee.

1. Lease of Premises and Rent

Lessor hereby leases to Lessee, and Lessee hereby leases from Lessor, Apartment No. (the Premises) of

, situated at

, to be used and occupied by Lessee as a residence and for no other use or purpose whatever, for a term of months beginning on (date) and ending on (date), at a rental of $ per month, payable monthly, in advance, during the entire term of this Lease, payable to Lessor at

, or to any other person or agent and at any other time or place that Lessor may designate.

2. Security Deposit

On the execution of this Lease, Lessee deposits with Lessor $ receipt of which is acknowledged by Lessor, as security for the faithful performance by Lessee of the terms of this Lease Agreement, to be returned to Lessee, without interest, on the full and faithful performance by Lessee of the provisions of this Lease Agreement.

3. Number of Occupants

Lessee agrees that the Premises shall be occupied by no more than persons, consisting of adults and children under the age of years without the prior, express, and written consent of Lessor.

4. Assignment and Subletting

Without the prior, express, and written consent of Lessor, Lessee shall not assign this Lease, or sublet the Premises or any part of the Premises. A consent by Lessor to one assignment or subletting shall not be deemed to be a consent to any subsequent assignment or subletting.

5. Showing Premises for Rental

Lessee grants permission to Lessor to show the Premises to new rental applicants at reasonable hours of the day, within days of the expiration of the term of this Lease.

6. Entry for Inspection, Repairs and Alterations

Lessor shall have the right to enter the Premises for inspection at all reasonable hours and whenever necessary to make repairs and alterations of the Premises or to clean the Premises.

7. Utilities

Electricity, gas, telephone service, and other utilities are not furnished as a part of this Lease unless otherwise indicated in this Lease Agreement. These expenses are the responsibility of and shall be obtained at the expense of Lessee. Charges for water and garbage service furnished to the Premises are included as a part of this Lease and shall be borne by Lessor.

8. Repairs, Redecoration, or Alterations

Lessor shall be responsible for repairs to the interior and exterior of the building, provided, however, that repairs required through damage caused by Lessee shall be charged to Lessee as additional rent. It is agreed that Lessee will not make or permit to be made any alterations, additions, improvements, or changes in the Leased Premises without in each case first obtaining the written consent of Lessor. A consent to a particular alteration, addition, improvement, or change shall not be deemed a consent to or a waiver of restrictions against alterations, additions, improvements, or changes for the future. All alterations, changes, and improvements built, constructed, or placed in the Leased Premises by Lessee, with the exception of fixtures removable without damage to the Premises and movable personal property, shall, unless otherwise provided by written agreement between Lessor and Lessee, be the property of Lessor and remain in the Leased Premises at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease.

9. Animals

Lessee shall keep no domestic or other animals in or about the Premises without the prior, express, and written consent of Lessor.

10. Waste, Nuisance, or Unlawful Use

Lessee agrees that will not commit waste on the Premises, or maintain or permit to be maintained a nuisance on the Premises, or use or permit the Premises to be used in an unlawful manner.

11. Waiver

The failure of either party to this Agreement to insist upon the performance of any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, or the waiver of any breach of any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, shall not be construed as subsequently waiving any such terms and conditions, but the same shall continue and remain in full force and effect as if no such forbearance or waiver had occurred.

12. Holding Over

The parties agree that any holding over by Lessee under this Lease, without Lessor's written consent, shall be a tenancy at will which may be terminated by Lessor on days' notice in writing.

13. Parking Space

Lessee is granted a license to use parking space No. in the Premises building for the purpose of parking one motor vehicle during the term of this Lease.

14. Option to Renew

Lessee is granted the option of renewing this Lease for an additional term of months on the same terms and conditions as contained in this Lease Agreement and at the monthly rent of $ after renewal. If Lessee elects to exercise this option, he/she must give at least days' written notice to Lessor prior to the termination of this Lease.

15. Delivery of Premises upon Termination of Lease

At the end of the term of this Lease, Lessee shall quit and deliver up the Premises to Lessor in as good condition as they are now, ordinary wear, decay, and damage by the elements excepted.

16. Default

If Lessee defaults in the payment of rent or any part of the rent at the times specified above, or if Lessee defaults in the performance of or compliance with any other term or condition of this Lease, the Lease, at the option of Lessor, shall terminate and be forfeited, and Lessor may reenter the Premises and retake possession and recover damages, including costs and attorney's fees. Lessee shall be given notice as required by law of any default or breach. Termination and forfeiture of the Lease shall not result if, within days of receipt of such notice, Lessee has corrected the default or breach or has taken action reasonably likely to effect correction within a reasonable time.

17. Destruction of Premises and Eminent Domain

If the Leased Premises are destroyed or rendered untenantable by fire, storm, or earthquake, or other casualty not caused by the negligence of Lessee, or if the Leased Premises are taken by eminent domain, this Lease shall be at an end from such time except for the purpose of enforcing rights that have then accrued under this Lease Agreement. The rental shall then be accounted for between Lessor and Lessee up to the time of such injury or destruction or taking of the Premises, Lessee paying up to such date and Lessor refunding the rent collected beyond such date. Should a part only of the Leased Premises be destroyed or rendered untenantable by fire, storm, earthquake, or other casualty not caused by the negligence of Lessee, the rental shall abate in the proportion that the injured part bears to the whole Leased Premises. The part so injured shall be restored by Lessor as speedily as practicable, after which the full rent shall recommence and the Lease continue according to its terms. Any condemnation award concerning the Leased Premises shall belong exclusively to Lessor.

18. Delay in or Impossibility of Delivery of Possession

If possession cannot be delivered to Lessee on commencement of the Lease term, through no fault of Lessor or Lessor's agents, there shall be no liability on Lessor or Lessor's agents, but the rental provided in this Lease Agreement shall abate until possession is given. Lessor or Lessor's agents shall have days in which to give possession, and if possession is tendered within that time, Lessee agrees to accept the Leased Premises and pay the rental provided in this Lease Agreement. If possession cannot be delivered within that time, through no fault of Lessor or Lessor's agents, then this Lease and all rights under this Lease Agreement shall be at an end.

19. Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by, construed, and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of

20. Notices

Any notice provided for or concerning this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed sufficiently given when sent by certified or registered mail if sent to the respective address of each party as set forth at the beginning of this Agreement.

21. Mandatory Arbitration

Any dispute under this Agreement shall be required to be resolved by binding arbitration of the parties hereto. If the parties cannot agree on an arbitrator, each party shall select one arbitrator and both arbitrators shall then select a third. The third arbitrator so selected shall arbitrate said dispute. The arbitration shall be governed by the rules of the American Arbitration Association then in force and effect.

22. Entire Agreement

This Agreement shall constitute the entire agreement between the parties and any prior understanding or representation of any kind preceding the date of this Agreement shall not be binding upon either party except to the extent incorporated in this Agreement.

23. Modification of Agreement

Any modification of this Agreement or additional obligation assumed by either party in connection with this Agreement shall be binding only if placed in writing and signed by each party or an authorized representative of each party.

24. Counterparts

This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together shall constitute but one and the same instrument.

WITNESS our signatures as of the day and date first above stated.

LESSOR

LESSEE

Enter text

What a Sample Lease Agreement Is and What It Covers

A Sample Lease Agreement is a written contract that sets the legal terms between a landlord (lessor) and a tenant (lessee) for the use and occupancy of residential or commercial premises. It typically identifies the parties, describes the premises, states the lease term and rent amount, addresses security deposit and utilities, allocates maintenance and repair responsibilities, and describes notice and termination procedures. A clear, professionally drafted lease reduces disputes and documents expectations; it can be adapted for fixed-term leases, month-to-month arrangements, and addenda for pets, parking, or other special conditions.

Why a Well-Drafted Sample Lease Agreement Matters

A complete lease clarifies rights and obligations, reduces the risk of disputes, and provides enforceable evidence of terms. When properly executed it is admissible in court and can be signed electronically consistent with the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. §7001) and applicable state UETA or ESRA rules.

Why a Well-Drafted Sample Lease Agreement Matters

Who Typically Prepares and Signs a Lease

Landlords, property managers, tenants, and real estate attorneys are the primary users of lease templates and executed agreements.

  • Landlords and property managers who list and rent residential or commercial units and enforce lease terms.
  • Tenants who review obligations, payment schedules, and move-in/move-out responsibilities before signing.
  • Real estate and contract attorneys who tailor clauses for state law, special terms, or complex transactions.

Each party should confirm authority to sign and verify identity; corporate landlords typically sign through an authorized officer or property manager.

Essential Parts of a Professional Sample Lease Agreement

A professional lease contains specific sections that collectively define the landlord-tenant relationship and reduce ambiguity.

Parties

Full legal names and entity types for landlord and tenant, including business d/b/a entries and contact details, to ensure enforceability and correct tax reporting.

Premises

Clear street address, unit number, and any included areas (parking, storage) with square footage or identifiers to avoid disputes over what is leased.

Term

Start and end dates or month-to-month terms, renewal options, and early-termination conditions to set expectations and notice windows.

Rent

Amount, due date, accepted payment methods, late fees, and returned-check fees with dollar figures to reduce payment disagreements.

Security Deposit

Amount, lawful uses, accounting, interest (if required by state), and timeline for return consistent with state statutes.

Maintenance & Repairs

Division of responsibility, habitability standards, and procedures for repair requests and emergency access to clarify obligations.

Step-by-Step: Complete and Execute the Lease

Follow these sequential steps to prepare, sign, and distribute the completed lease accurately.

  • 01
    Prepare: Select a template and customize clauses for the property and parties.
  • 02
    Fill Parties: Enter full legal names, addresses, and contact information for all parties.
  • 03
    Attach Exhibits: Include inventory lists, parking assignments, and lead paint disclosures as needed.
  • 04
    Sign: Collect signatures, dates, and any notarization or witness acknowledgements required.

How to Configure an Online Signing Workflow

Set authentication, field logic, and notifications to match your signing process and compliance needs.

Field Configuration
Signature Authentication Email with optional SMS code verification
Conditional Fields Show rent proration and pet clauses when applicable
Template Permissions Assign editor, sender, and viewer roles
Notifications Automated reminders for signature and renewal dates

What You Need to Sign and Exchange Leases Electronically

Use a platform that supports PDF/DOCX uploads, audit trails, and secure signer authentication to preserve enforceability and records.

  • Supported Formats: PDF, DOCX, and HTML document compatibility
  • Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365 support
  • Authentication: Email links, SMS codes, and optional KBA or 2FA

Ensure the chosen platform preserves an audit trail (timestamps, IP addresses) and supports retention/export features required for compliance and dispute resolution.

Where to Send and Store the Executed Lease

After signature, distribute copies to all parties and store the executed document in an organized, secure repository for future reference.

  • Send to Tenant: Email a fully executed PDF to the tenant for records
  • Send to Landlord: Deliver a signed copy to the landlord or property manager
  • Provide Agent Copies: Give copies to listing or leasing agents as applicable
  • Archive Securely: Store original signed files in a secure document system

Key Dates and Typical Deadlines to Track

Track core dates and typical notice windows to avoid missed obligations and to preserve legal rights under the lease.

Lease Start Date:

Date tenant takes possession; triggers rent and obligations

Rent Due Dates:

Recurring monthly dates per lease; track grace period terms

Security Deposit Return:

State-specific return window, commonly 14–60 days after move-out

Notice to Vacate:

Typical tenant notice 30 days for month-to-month tenancies

Repair Response:

Reasonable response times for habitability issues, often 24–72 hours

Milestones from Draft to Move-In

Follow the numbered milestones below to keep the lease process on schedule and documented.

01

Drafting and Review

Customize the template and have legal or agent review prior to offering.

02

Execution

Collect signatures from all parties and witnesses, and notarize if required.

03

Move-In Inspection

Document property condition on or before possession to record pre-existing damage.

04

First Payment

Confirm receipt of initial rent and security deposit before or at move-in.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing a Lease

  • Using informal or partial names that differ from legal records, which can complicate enforcement and banking tasks.
  • Failing to specify the exact unit or included amenities, leading to post-occupancy disputes about access or charges.
  • Vague rent or fee language (for example, 'reasonable' or 'market rate') that invites disagreement and litigation.
  • Omitting required disclosures or local addenda (lead paint, mold, rent control items) which can invalidate portions of the lease.

Risks and Potential Consequences of an Incorrect Lease

Invalid Notice: May render eviction or notice unenforceable
Security Deposit Penalty: Statutory damages or interest may apply
Habitability Claims: Tenant remedies or rent abatement exposure
Contract Ambiguity: Courts may interpret ambiguous terms against drafter
Recordkeeping Failure: Loss of evidence in disputes or audits
Data Breach Exposure: Privacy liability and regulatory scrutiny possible

Security and Compliance Features to Look For

Encryption: AES-256 at rest; TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit
Audit Trail: Timestamps, IP addresses, and action logs
HIPAA Support: BAA available for protected health data
Certifications: SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 attestations
Access Controls: Role permissions and two-factor authentication
Retention Export: Exportable records for legal holds and audits

eSignature Pricing and Feature Snapshot for Lease Workflows

Compare common plan-level criteria across leading eSignature vendors; signNow is listed first per platform comparison conventions.

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 Yes — 7-day free trial Varies Varies Varies Varies
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Real-World Examples of Online Lease Execution

These short examples show how organizations use electronic workflows and templates for leases and related agreements.

Martin Properties — Founder

A local property manager shifted to online leases to speed move-ins and reduce paperwork.

  • Faster processing for tenants and staff.
  • "I can process and execute all of these documents online with 100% compliance and built-in security. Whether on mobile or working offline, I can get forms back to their necessary parties efficiently."

Optica Ventures — COO

A small investor group standardized lease templates for new acquisitions to ensure consistency.

  • Uniform clauses reduced attorney review time.
  • "The interface is simple and easy-to-use for our team; more importantly, it is just as easy for our customers."

Practical Tips for Accurate and Efficient Lease Completion

Follow these best practices to reduce errors, speed execution, and improve enforceability.

Use a Single Authoritative Template
Maintain a centrally managed lease template with controlled clauses and version history to avoid conflicting language across units.
Validate Signer Identity
Use email plus SMS or stronger authentication for corporate signers to reduce later disputes over attribution.
Record Conditions at Move-In
Use a signed move-in checklist or photos to document condition and limit security deposit disputes.
Keep an Audit Trail
Preserve timestamps, IP addresses, and transaction logs to support enforcement and resolve disputes quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sample Lease Agreements

Answers to common questions about validity, execution, amendments, and recordkeeping for leases.


Need help? Contact support

be ready to get more
Join over 28 million airSlate SignNow users