Can I really use a template lease?

Yes, for the agreement structure — but your state or country's tenancy law fills in and overrides many terms (bond limits, notice periods, entry rights). Several jurisdictions also publish a mandatory standard form; where one exists, use it and keep this as your checklist.

Fixed term or month-to-month?

Fixed term gives both sides certainty and locks the rent; month-to-month gives flexibility with statutory notice. Landlords usually prefer 12 months with a defined renewal.

How much can the deposit/bond be?

Capped by law in most places — commonly 4 weeks' rent in Australia, 1–2 months in many US states. Charging above the cap is unlawful even if the tenant agrees.

Residential Lease Agreement Template

A plain-language residential lease covering rent, bond/deposit, maintenance, and the exit rules — the clauses every tenancy dispute comes down to.

RESIDENTIAL LEASE AGREEMENT This Lease is made on between: LANDLORD: , of ("Landlord") TENANT(S): ("Tenant") 1. PREMISES. Landlord leases to Tenant the residence at , including . 2. TERM. months, from to / Month-to-month beginning ]. 3. RENT. per , due in advance on the of each , paid by . Late rent incurs after days. 4. SECURITY DEPOSIT / BOND. Tenant pays before moving in, held , refundable less lawful deductions within days of vacating. 5. UTILITIES. Tenant pays: . Landlord pays: . 6. USE & OCCUPANCY. The premises are for residential use by the named Tenant(s) only. No subletting without written consent. 7. MAINTENANCE. Tenant keeps the premises clean and reports damage promptly; Landlord maintains the property in habitable repair and handles urgent repairs . 8. PETS. . 9. ENTRY. Landlord may enter with hours' written notice for inspections or repairs, or immediately in an emergency, subject to local law. 10. ENDING THE LEASE. Notice periods: . Early termination: . 11. CONDITION REPORT. A signed condition report taken at move-in forms part of this Lease. 12. GOVERNING LAW. This Lease is subject to the residential tenancy laws of , which override any inconsistent term. SIGNED: _________________________ _________________________ Landlord Tenant Date: Date:

Download Word (.docx)0/32 blanks filled · nothing is uploaded — this stays on your device

Using this for something that matters?

This free residential lease agreement covers the standard situation. If real money, property, or an ongoing relationship rides on it, a professionally drafted version — or a quick attorney review of what you've filled in — costs little and removes the guesswork.

Ask any local attorney for a fixed-fee document review — most offer one.

How to use this template

Residential tenancy law overrides your lease almost everywhere — clause 12 isn't decoration, it's reality. Deposit caps, notice periods, and entry rules are usually fixed by statute.
Do the condition report with timestamped photos, both parties signing — it decides virtually every bond dispute.
Name every adult occupant in clause 6; unnamed occupants are the root of half of all landlord headaches.

These templates are general forms for informational purposes, not legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by using them. Laws vary by state and country — have a licensed attorney review any document before you rely on it.

Common questions

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