Residential Lease Agreement – Ohio Court

This Residential Lease Agreement is a legal document provided as a sample by the Cleveland Housing Court. It outlines the terms and conditions under which a landlord rents a property to a tenant. The Residential Lease Agreement is meant to serve as a guideline and includes various provisions that parties may want to include or negotiate in their rental arrangement. It is important to note that this sample does not cover every possible situation and is not a substitute for legal advice.

This agreement aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the rental relationship, ensuring clarity and protection for both landlords and tenants. However, for any specific legal issues or advice, parties are encouraged to consult an attorney.

The Residential Lease Agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of a rental arrangement between landlords and tenants. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you complete this form correctly.

General Information

• Date: Enter the date when the lease agreement is being created.
• Landlords: Fill in the names of the landlords.
• Tenants: Fill in the names of the tenants.
• Property: Specify the address of the rental property.

Property Inclusions

Initial where applicable to indicate what parts of the property are included:

• Garage
• Attic
• Basement
• One parking space
• Other specified areas

1. Term of Lease

Choose and complete one of the following options:

• Month-to-Month: Check this box if the lease is a month-to-month agreement.
• Year-to-Year: Indicate the start and end dates of the lease term. If the lease will continue month-to-month after the specified term, state that.
• Fixed Term: Indicate the start and end dates, and state that the lease expires at the end of the term without further action.

2. Termination

• Specify that either party may terminate the lease by providing written notice at least 30 days in advance. Ensure the other party receives this notice before the first day of the rental period that includes the 30 days’ notice.

3. Security Deposit

• Enter the amount of the security deposit.
• Detail the conditions under which the security deposit can be used for unpaid rent, late charges, repairs, etc.
• State the timeframe (30 days) within which the landlord must return the deposit after the tenants vacate, less any deductions.

4. Rent

• Specify the monthly rent amount.
• Indicate the due date for rent payments.
• Describe the method of payment (e.g., check, electronic transfer).

5. Late Fees

• State the late fee amount if rent is paid after the due date.
• Specify the number of days after which late payment will not be accepted.

6. Returned Checks

• Describe the charges for returned checks, including the bank fees and any applicable late fees.

7. Occupancy

• List the names of all authorized occupants.
• Indicate that additional occupants must be approved in writing by the landlord and may result in an increase in rent.

8. Subletting/Assignment

• State that subletting or assignment of the lease requires the landlord’s prior written consent.

9. Utilities/Services

• Indicate which utilities the tenants are responsible for by marking an “X”:
  • Electric
  • Gas
  • Water
  • Sewer
  • Trash collection

10. Appliances

• List the appliances provided with the property and mark with an “X”:
  • Stove
  • Refrigerator
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Other specified appliances

11. Repairs and Damages

• Detail tenant responsibilities for maintaining the property and reporting necessary repairs.

12. Right to Enter

• State that landlords must give 24-hours’ advance notice before entering the property, except in emergencies.

13. Lawful Use

• Prohibit drug-related or criminal activity on the property, specifying that such activity is grounds for termination of the lease.

14. Tenant Improvements and Alterations

• Indicate that tenants must obtain written consent from the landlord before making any alterations to the property.

15. Peace and Quiet

• Ensure tenants and their neighbors have the right to peace and quiet.

16. Pets

• Specify that pets are not allowed unless a Pet Addendum is signed by both parties.

17. Lead Paint Disclosure

• Provide the necessary disclosures and documentation related to lead-based paint if the property was built before 1978.

18. Entire Agreement

• State that this lease and its attachments constitute the entire agreement between the parties.

19. Notices

• Specify that any notices must be given in writing.

20. Modifications

• State that any modifications to the agreement must be in writing and signed by all parties.

21. Contact Information

• Fill in the contact details for both landlords and tenants, including addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

Acknowledgment

• Sign and date the form in the provided spaces, ensuring both parties acknowledge and agree to the terms of the lease.

Addendums

Security-System Addendum

• Indicate the chosen option for activating a security system and specify any associated costs.

Pet Addendum

• Fill in the details regarding pet allowance, pet deposit, and responsibilities related to pet ownership.

By following this guide, you can ensure that all necessary information is accurately completed, making the lease agreement clear and legally binding for both parties. If you have any doubts or require legal advice, consult an attorney.