Reading contracts or important documents can get confusing. Most times, people mistake scanning and signing the document without understanding what they are signing. Unfortunately, this is a terms and conditions legally enforceable agreement that may land you in a wrong spot if not followed. Don’t get stuck in a predicament; take your time to read, understand, and ask questions about any part of the document.
As a tenant signing an agreement, here are some essential things that you should expect and look for in the document.
- All lease agreements should include basic information and data about the property. Basic information can include:
- The property’s physical location and non-fixed assets (fridges, microwave, dryers, dishwasher, oven), helping protect the tenant and the landlord when the lease comes to an end.
- The lease agreement must include the names of all tenants living in the property.
- Duration of the lease. The duration of the lease is when the lease will start and end. This includes month-to-month, annual, or whichever length the tenant and landlord have agreed upon
- The lease agreement must include when the lease is renewed. A most month-to-month lease usually renews automatically until the tenant or landlord decides to stop renewal. The lease renewal will also be when the notice should be given.
- Security and deposit fees must be clearly stated in the agreement. Any amount that the tenant needs to make, including any other fees, will be noticed on the agreement.