Residential Lease Agreement — 2026 template

This Residential Lease Agreement ("Lease") is made on [Date] between [Landlord full legal name], [Landlord address] ("Landlord"), and [Tenant full legal name(s)] ("Tenant").

1. Premises

Landlord leases to Tenant the dwelling at [Property address, unit number], [City], [State] [ZIP] (the "Premises"), together with [Parking space, storage, appliances, furnishings].

2. Term

The Lease begins on [Start date] and ends on [End date]. If Tenant remains in possession after the end date with Landlord's consent, the tenancy continues month-to-month on the same terms, terminable by the notice required under [State] law.

3. Rent

Tenant pays monthly rent of $[Monthly rent] in advance on the [Day] day of each month by [Payment method] to [Payment address or account]. Rent for a partial first month is $[Prorated amount].

If rent is not received within [Grace period] days after the due date, Tenant pays a late fee of $[Late fee], provided this amount is permitted and reasonable under [State] law.

4. Security Deposit

Tenant pays a security deposit of $[Deposit amount], which does not exceed the maximum allowed by [State] law (for example, in California generally one month's rent under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5, with a limited small-landlord exception). The deposit will be held at [Bank or holding arrangement, if required by state law] and returned, less lawful deductions itemized in writing, within [Number of days required by state law] days after Tenant vacates.

5. Utilities and Services

Tenant pays: [Utilities paid by Tenant]. Landlord pays: [Utilities paid by Landlord].