Lease Checklist: 15 Things to Review Before You Sign
A plain-English checklist for every renter. Go through these items before signing anything.
Don't want to check manually?Upload your lease and we'll check all of these automatically — plus flag anything unusual.
Analyze Your Lease FreeMoney
Total monthly cost
Rent amount, plus any mandatory fees (trash, water, pest control, parking). The advertised rent isn't always the full cost.
Security deposit amount and terms
How much, when it's due, and exactly how and when you get it back. Check your state's deposit limit — many cap it at 1-2 months' rent.
Late fee structure
How much is the late fee? Is there a grace period? Some leases charge a flat fee, others charge a daily rate. Know the exact terms.
Who pays which utilities
Water, gas, electric, internet, trash — get it in writing. 'Utilities included' might not mean all of them.
Dates & Duration
Lease start and end dates
Obvious, but verify. Also check: does the lease automatically renew? If so, how much notice do you need to give to avoid renewal?
Move-in and move-out procedures
When do you get keys? What condition must the unit be in when you leave? Is there a move-out inspection? Get these in writing.
Living Rules
Guest and occupant policies
Can guests stay overnight? For how long? Some leases restrict guests to 3 consecutive nights. Make sure you can live with the rules.
Pet policy
Allowed breeds, weight limits, pet deposits, monthly pet rent. Note: service animals and ESAs are protected under federal law regardless of pet policies.
Noise and quiet hours
What are the quiet hours? What counts as a violation? How are noise complaints handled? This affects your daily life.
Maintenance
Repair responsibilities
Who fixes what? Landlords are generally responsible for habitability (plumbing, HVAC, structure). If the lease says otherwise, know your state's rules.
How to submit maintenance requests
Is it in writing? Online portal? Text? Get a clear process and keep records of every request.
Access
Landlord entry notice requirements
Your landlord should give advance notice (usually 24-48 hours) before entering, except in emergencies. If the lease says otherwise, push back.
Exit Terms
Early termination options
What happens if you need to leave early? How much is the penalty? Can you sublease or find a replacement tenant?
Renewal terms and rent increase notice
How much notice does the landlord need to give before raising rent? Is there a cap on increases? What happens if you go month-to-month?
Your Rights
State-specific tenant protections
Your state may give you rights the lease doesn't mention — or the lease may include clauses that aren't enforceable in your state. Know the basics.
Let us check your lease for you
Upload your lease PDF or paste the text. We'll review every item on this checklist — and more.
Analyze Your Lease FreeDisclaimer: This checklist is for educational purposes only. Lease terms and tenant rights vary by state. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.