8 Common Lease Mistakes Made by Landlords and Tenants

Why Your Lease Contract is Your Most Important Document

A solid lease protects your rights, prevents disputes, and provides a clear path for resolving conflicts. A flawed lease can cost you significantly in time and money.

8 Most Common Mistakes

1. Vague maintenance clauses — specify exactly what owner vs tenant is responsible for
2. No annual increase clause — locked at below-market rent for years
3. Not authenticating on Ejar — weakens your legal position significantly
4. Insufficient deposit — standard is 1 month rent, 2-3 for furnished
5. Not verifying tenant identity — use Absher for electronic verification
6. Missing early termination clauses — what happens if tenant leaves early or misses 3 payments?
7. No property condition photos — strongest evidence in damage disputes
8. Verbal agreements — if it is not written and signed, it does not exist legally