A Guide to Signing a Lease

Before Signing a Lease

Understand the Lease Agreement:

• Read the Entire Lease: Carefully read through the entire lease document. Ensure you understand all the terms and conditions.

• Key Terms to Look For: Rent amount, security deposit, lease duration, renewal terms, late fees, pet policies, maintenance responsibilities, and rules on subletting.

Inspect the Property:

• Condition of the Unit: Conduct a thorough inspection of the property. Look for any potential and existing damage, malfunctioning appliances, or maintenance issues.

• Document Issues: Take pictures and document any pre-existing conditions. This can help avoid disputes when moving out.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities:

• Tenant Rights: Familiarize yourself with local tenant rights and laws. In Michigan, resources like Michigan Legal Help can provide guidance.

• Responsibilities: Understand your responsibilities regarding rent payment, property upkeep, and abiding by the lease terms.

Key Components of a Lease Agreement

Basic Information:

• Names: The full names of the landlord and tenants.

• Property Address: The full address of the rental property.

• Lease Term: The start and end dates of the lease.

Financial Details:

• Rent Amount: Monthly rent amount and due date.

• Security Deposit: Amount and conditions for refund.

• Additional Fees: Any additional fees (e.g., late fees, pet fees).

Use of Property:

• Occupancy Limits: Number of people allowed to live in the unit.

• Pet Policy: Rules regarding pets, if allowed.

• Subletting: Terms under which subletting is permitted.

Maintenance and Repairs:

• Landlord’s Responsibilities: What maintenance and repairs the landlord is responsible for.

• Tenant’s Responsibilities: What maintenance and upkeep the tenant is responsible for.

• Reporting Repairs: Process for reporting maintenance issues.

Utilities and Services:

• Included Utilities: Which utilities are included in the rent (e.g., water, gas, electricity).

• Tenant’s Responsibility: Utilities the tenant is responsible for setting up and paying.

Rules and Regulations:

• House Rules: Specific rules for the property (e.g., noise levels, parking).

• Prohibited Activities: Activities that are not allowed (e.g., smoking, illegal activities).

Renewal and Termination:

• Lease Renewal: Conditions for renewing the lease.

• Termination Clause: Conditions under which the lease can be terminated early.

• Notice Period: Required notice period for moving out or terminating the lease.

During the Lease Period

Pay Rent on Time:

• Payment Methods: Know the accepted payment methods and make sure rent is paid on time to avoid late fees and potential eviction. Remember you are paying for the upcoming month every 1st.

• Grace Period: Know your grace period. Some offer 5 days.

Maintain the Property:

• Cleanliness and Upkeep: Keep the property clean and in good condition.

• Report Issues: Report maintenance issues to the landlord promptly.

Respect the Terms:

• Follow Rules: Adhere to all rules and regulations outlined in the lease.

• Avoid Unauthorized Changes: Do not make significant changes to the property without landlord approval.

Moving Out

Give Proper Notice:

• Notice Period: Provide the landlord with written notice of your intent to move out as required by the lease (usually 30-60 days).

Clean and Repair:

• Move-Out Inspection: Arrange a move-out inspection with the landlord.

• Cleaning: Clean the property thoroughly and make any necessary minor repairs.

Return Keys:

• Key Return: Return all keys to the landlord and provide a forwarding address for the return of the security deposit.

Security Deposit:

• Refund Process: Understand the process for the security deposit refund. In Michigan, the landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions.

Helpful Tips

• Get Everything in Writing: Ensure all agreements and modifications are in writing and signed by both parties.

• Keep Copies: Keep copies of the lease, correspondence with the landlord, and any receipts for rent and repairs.

• Seek Legal Advice: If you have questions or concerns about the lease, consider seeking advice from a legal professional or tenant advocacy group.