Free Templates / Lease Agreement

    Free Residential Lease Agreement

    A written lease protects both the landlord and the tenant by putting rent, deposits, and responsibilities in black and white. This free fixed-term residential lease covers the standard terms for renting a house or apartment.

    Download the PDF for free, or send it to your tenant for electronic signature and have the lease fully executed today.

    Download Free PDF

    3-page PDF. Free to download, no signup required.

    What this template covers

    • The premises, lease term, and what happens at the end of the term
    • Monthly rent, late fees, and the security deposit
    • Utilities, occupancy limits, subletting, pets, and smoking
    • Maintenance responsibilities for both landlord and tenant
    • Landlord entry with notice, default, and remedies under state law

    How to use it

    1. 1Fill in the property, the parties, the dates, and the money terms.
    2. 2Check your state and local rules on deposits, late fees, and notice periods, which control over the lease.
    3. 3Send it for signature. Landlord and tenant both sign electronically and receive the final signed lease.

    Frequently asked questions

    Does this lease work in my state?

    The template uses widely applicable terms and states explicitly that state and local law control where they conflict. Deposit limits, late-fee rules, and entry-notice periods vary by state, so check yours before sending.

    What happens when the lease term ends?

    If the tenant stays with the landlord's consent and no new lease is signed, the tenancy converts to month-to-month on the same terms, terminable with thirty days notice or as your state requires.

    Can a lease be signed electronically?

    Yes. Residential leases can be signed electronically in the U.S., and e-signing means no printing, no scanning, and both parties automatically keep the same signed copy.

    Is the security deposit section compliant with my local rules?

    The template requires the deposit to be held and returned as your law requires, but maximum amounts and return deadlines vary by state and city. Verify your local limits before setting the amount.

    Get it signed in minutes

    Send this lease agreement for legally binding electronic signature with SignSimple. Every signer gets their own copy, and you get a full audit certificate. Unlimited documents, always free.

    More free templates

    These templates are provided for general informational purposes only and are not legal advice. Laws vary by state; for important or unusual situations, have an attorney review your document.