Real Estate Template
Free Residential Lease Agreement Template
A residential lease agreement establishes the terms for renting a residential property.
Template
Copy this markdown, replace the {{variables}}, and send via API.
# Residential Lease Agreement
**Landlord:** {{landlordName}}
**Tenant:** {{tenantName}}
**Property:** {{propertyAddress}}
**Date:** {{date}}
## Term
{{startDate}} to {{endDate}}
## Rent
{{monthlyRent}} per month, due on the {{dueDate}} of each month.
## Security Deposit
{{depositAmount}}
## Utilities
{{utilitiesIncluded}}
## Maintenance
{{maintenanceResponsibilities}}
## Rules
{{houseRules}}
## Termination
{{terminationTerms}}Send for e-signature
curl -X POST https://signb.ee/api/send \
-H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" \
-H "Content-Type: application/json" \
-d '{
"content": "YOUR_RENDERED_MARKDOWN",
"senderName": "Your Name",
"senderEmail": "you@company.com",
"recipientName": "Recipient",
"recipientEmail": "recipient@email.com"
}'What happens next
- Signbee converts the markdown to a professional PDF
- Recipient gets an email with a signing link
- Both parties sign with an animated handwriting signature
- Both receive the signed PDF with a SHA-256 certificate
All signatures are legally binding under the ESIGN Act, eIDAS, and ECA.
More details
A residential lease agreement is one of the most common legal documents in everyday life. It governs the relationship between landlord and tenant for the duration of the tenancy, defining rights and obligations for both parties.
Fixed-term vs periodic tenancy: - Fixed-term: Runs for a specified period (6 months, 12 months, 2 years). Neither party can terminate early without penalty unless the lease includes a break clause. Provides certainty for both parties. - Periodic (month-to-month): Rolls over automatically each month. Either party can terminate with notice (typically 30-60 days). More flexible but less secure for both parties. - Best practice: Start with a fixed-term lease (usually 12 months) that converts to a periodic tenancy after the initial term.
Essential clauses every residential lease must include: 1. Rent amount and due date — Monthly amount, payment method, and the specific day rent is due. Include late payment fees (check local limits — many jurisdictions cap late fees). 2. Security deposit — Amount, where it will be held (some jurisdictions require a government-backed deposit scheme), conditions for deductions, and timeline for return after move-out (typically 14-30 days). 3. Maintenance responsibilities — Landlord handles structural repairs, plumbing, electrical, and habitability issues. Tenant handles day-to-day cleanliness and minor maintenance. Define who replaces light bulbs, smoke detector batteries, and air filters. 4. Utilities — Which utilities are included in rent and which the tenant pays separately. Document meter readings at move-in. 5. Pet policy — Allowed or not? If yes, species and size restrictions, additional deposit or pet rent, and tenant liability for damage. 6. Guest and occupancy policy — Who may live in the property? Maximum occupancy? Overnight guest limits? 7. Entry rights — When the landlord may enter (typically 24-48 hours notice except for emergencies). Many jurisdictions have strict rules about landlord access. 8. Termination and renewal — Notice period for non-renewal, early termination fees, and the process for transitioning to a periodic tenancy.
Landlord-tenant law varies dramatically by jurisdiction. In tenant-friendly cities (New York, San Francisco, Berlin), rent control, eviction protections, and deposit regulations are extensive. In landlord-friendly states (Texas, Georgia), lease terms have more flexibility. Always check local regulations before drafting.
Frequently asked questions
Can a residential lease be signed electronically?
Yes. Residential leases are valid with electronic signatures under ESIGN (US), eIDAS (EU), and ECA (UK). E-signing is especially useful for landlords with multiple properties or tenants relocating from another city who can't sign in person.
What happens if a tenant breaks a lease early?
The tenant is typically liable for rent until the end of the lease term or until the landlord finds a replacement tenant (duty to mitigate). Many leases include an early termination fee (usually 1-2 months rent). Check local laws — some jurisdictions limit early termination penalties.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit?
It varies by jurisdiction. Many US states cap deposits at 1-2 months rent. The UK limits deposits to 5 weeks rent. Some jurisdictions require deposits to be held in government-backed schemes. Check local regulations before setting the deposit amount.
Related resources
Send this template for signing — free, no credit card.