Leases are usually presented as standard documents, but terms vary widely and many are negotiable before signature.
Clauses to read carefully
Renewal and escalation terms, maintenance responsibilities, guest and subletting rules, and penalties for early termination create most disputes.
- Rent escalation at renewal
- Early termination and re-letting fees
- Maintenance and repair responsibility
- Deposit conditions and return timeline
Protect your deposit
Photograph and video every room before moving in, note existing damage in writing, and get the landlord's acknowledgement. Most deposit disputes turn on evidence of pre-existing condition.