Common Leasing Terms

Not all leases are the same, so always read over each and every one carefully. If you do not understand any of the stipulations of the lease, ask questions. If you are still unsure, ask to consider the lease overnight, but be aware that the landlord has the right to lease the apartment to another renter during that time. Below are some clauses to help you get through the basics.

Landlord: The individual or company from which you will rent the apartment.

Parties: Include the names of all roommates on your lease. Your roommates will not be legally responsible for the unit if their names and signatures do not appear on the lease.

Lease Term: At the end of the initial lease term, the lease will be automatically renewed on a month-to-month basis unless a written notice of termination is given by the manager or the resident (this is usually required at least 30 days before the end of the lease).

Security Deposit: Always get a receipt when you give an apartment complex or landlord a deposit.

Rent and Charges: The amount, how it is to be paid, the date it is due, and penalties for late payments.

Insurance: Property owners urge you to protect your property from theft, fire, smoke, and water damage by purchasing insurance. Know that the property owners are not responsible for the safety of your belongings.

Security Devices: Your residence must have the following: a window latch on each window, a keyless deadbolt on each exterior door, a door viewer on each exterior door, and a pin lock, door handle latch, or security bar on each sliding glass door.

Community Policies or Rules: Ask your manager to give you a copy of any other rules and regulations that apply specifically to the apartment complex in which you live.

Release of Resident: Unless there is a clause in the special provisions or you fall under the military clause, you will not be released from your lease.

Conditions of the Premises and Alterations: If the apartment is not in the condition you expected, DO NOT MOVE IN!

Repair Requests: If you need any type of repair, written notice must be given to your management (except in emergencies involving immediate danger to a person or property).

When Property Representatives May Enter: The apartment manager or repair personnel may enter your apartment at reasonable hours. Entry may be during a time when residents are in the apartment or the entering party may leave notice to residents about their entry.

Multiple Residents or Occupants: Request or notices given to/from any resident constitutes notice to/from all residents. All residents on the lease are equally liable to uphold the lease.

Move-Out Notice: You must give apartment representatives at least 30 days written notice. Even if your lease states your move-out date, you still must give notice. Move-out notice given on the first day of the month is sufficient for move-out on the last day of the month. Verbal notice is not sufficient and does not constitute notice.

This information was created by the DePaul University Division of Student Affairs.