Rental Agreement Template
A rental agreement template defines the rental terms between landlord and tenant, covering rent, deposit, and lease duration before either party signs and occupancy begins.
Customize & DownloadRental Agreement Template Sample
This Rental Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into by and between [1. Landlord Name] (“Landlord”) and [2. Tenant Name] (“Tenant”) for the rental of the property located at [3. Property Address] (“Premises”).
Term
The lease term shall begin on [4. Lease Start Date] and shall end on [5. Lease End Date] (the “Term”), unless earlier terminated in accordance with this Agreement. Upon expiration of the Term, this Agreement shall convert to a month-to-month tenancy unless the parties execute a new agreement or either party provides written notice of non-renewal at least 30 days prior to the end of the Term.
Rent
Tenant shall pay Landlord monthly rent in the amount of [6. Monthly Rent], due on the [7. Rent Due Day] of each month. Rent shall be paid via [8. Payment Method]. Landlord’s failure to demand timely payment shall not constitute a waiver of Landlord’s right to enforce this provision.
Security Deposit
Upon execution of this Agreement, Tenant shall pay Landlord a security deposit in the amount of [9. Security Deposit], to be held as security for Tenant’s performance under this Agreement and returned in accordance with applicable state law.
Late Fees
If rent is not paid in full within [10. Grace Period] days of the due date, Tenant shall pay a late fee of [11. Late Fee Amount] in addition to the rent owed. Acceptance of a late payment by Landlord shall not constitute a waiver of any rights under this Agreement.
Utilities
Tenant shall be responsible for arranging and paying for the following utilities and services: [12. Tenant Utilities]. Landlord shall be responsible for: [13. Landlord Utilities].
Occupants and Pets
The Premises shall be occupied solely by Tenant and the following individuals: [14. Additional Occupants]. No other person shall occupy the Premises without Landlord’s prior written consent. Pets on the Premises shall be subject to the following terms: [15. Pet Policy].
Maintenance and Repairs
Landlord shall maintain the Premises in a habitable condition and shall be responsible for repairs to structural components, plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, except where damage results from Tenant’s negligence or misuse. Tenant shall keep the Premises in a clean and sanitary condition, promptly notify Landlord of any needed repairs, and shall additionally be responsible for: [16. Additional Tenant Maintenance Duties].
Termination
Either party may terminate this Agreement prior to the end of the Term only as expressly permitted under this Agreement or applicable law. Tenant may terminate a month-to-month tenancy arising under this Agreement by providing Landlord not less than [17. Notice Period] days’ written notice. Landlord may terminate this Agreement for Tenant’s material breach, including nonpayment of rent, in accordance with applicable state law.
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What's Included
6 provisionsThis template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice; consult a licensed attorney for state specific compliance.
How to Use
Drafting the Current Template
The system prepares the rental agreement using up to date leasing standards and regional tenancy law references so nothing is outdated.
Personalizing With Your Details
Fields like landlord, tenant, property address, and rent details are swapped in automatically as you enter your own information.
Downloading Your Finished Document
Preview the completed agreement, then export it as a Word or PDF file that is ready for both parties to sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a rental agreement need to be notarized in 2026?
In most states, notarization is not required for a residential rental agreement to be legally binding, though some landlords choose it for extra proof of signing. Check local county rules if the lease term exceeds one year, since some jurisdictions still require notarization for longer leases.
What is the difference between a rental agreement and a lease?
A rental agreement typically renews on a month to month basis, while a lease locks in fixed terms for a set period such as six or twelve months. Landlords use rental agreements for flexible arrangements and leases for longer term stability.
Can a landlord raise rent during an active rental agreement?
Rent increases are generally restricted during a signed agreement's fixed term unless the contract includes an escalation clause. Many states also require 30 to 60 days written notice before raising rent on month to month agreements.
Is a security deposit required by law for a rental agreement?
No federal law mandates a security deposit, but most landlords collect one to cover potential damages, and state laws cap the maximum amount and set timelines for returning it after move out.
