Lease Agreement Checklist

A practical checklist for tenants before signing any rental agreement.

Before signing a lease, it helps to review the full agreement carefully. A small clause hidden in the middle of the document can create major problems later. This checklist covers the most important items tenants should confirm before committing.

Basic Lease Details

• Correct property address
• Full names of landlord and tenant
• Lease start and end dates
• Monthly rent amount and due date

Financial Terms

• Security deposit amount
• Late fee rules
• Utility responsibilities
• Any non-refundable fees

Rules and Restrictions

• Pet policy
• Guest limits
• Subletting rules
• Renewal terms

Repair and Access Terms

• Who handles maintenance and repairs
• When the landlord may enter the unit
• Emergency procedures

Final Review Tip

If a clause looks vague, one-sided, or unusually strict, review it before signing. It is easier to negotiate before you move in than after a dispute begins.