Have to write up a lease today

[phorsenuf]

That's my project for the day. I thought about going to Staples to buy something but I want something more tailored and (hopefully) inclusive.

So landlords and/or renters what are some things I shouldn't overlook or add in that you wish you had.

Thanks

 

[missypie]

Are you an attorney?

 

[KT27]

I am property owner (we own a single family home & a duplex that we rent while we are overseas). I jotted down the things I wanted to include and then spoke to a local attorney who drew up the lease to make sure it fell within the local & state regulations. I would not write it myself. Too much at stake.

Good Luck!

 

[trip]

The only time we had to rent out our house, we turned it over to a property management company. They did the tenant screening, handled the paper work and any problems. We were stationed across the country.

 

[phorsenuf]

I am property owner (we own a single family home & a duplex that we rent while we are overseas). I jotted down the things I wanted to include and then spoke to a local attorney who drew up the lease to make sure it fell within the local & state regulations. I would not write it myself. Too much at stake.

Good Luck!

That's essentially what I am doing. I'm writing one up and then seeing an attorney to have it reviewed.

I was just curious what some people have in their leases.

 

[tinkntraining]

The specific clauses that immediately come to mind are:
1. A "no waterbed" clause,
2. A pets clause. Be very specific with what you WILL and WILL NOT allow. If you allow pets, will there be a separate pet security deposit? How much?
3. Make it clear who is responsible for utilities, and that if they choose to have their personal property insured, they must do so in a separate renter's insurance policy,
4. Do you want a "no sublet" clause?
5. Right of entry and inspection clause,
6. If desired, specify late fees for overdue payments.

That's all I can think of offhand. I do strongly suggest having an attorney familiar with Landlord/Tenant issues review your lease before renting.

Good luck!

 

[golfgal]

We require our tenants to carry renter's insurance so if they do a lot of damage to the house we have some recourse above and beyond the security deposit. We have a no smoking clause in ours as well.