Lease Template: Free Templates, Legal Tips, and What to Include
When you rent a property, a lease template, a legally binding written agreement between a landlord and tenant outlining terms of occupancy. Also known as a rental agreement, it’s not just a formality—it’s your protection. Without one, you’re gambling with your deposit, your security, and your right to live where you pay for.
A good lease template covers more than just rent and due dates. It defines who pays for repairs, what happens if someone breaks the lease, how much notice is needed to move out, and whether pets or subletting are allowed. In India, where rental laws vary by state, using a generic template can leave you exposed. For example, a lease signed in Delhi might not hold up in Chennai if it doesn’t follow local rent control rules. That’s why you need a template that’s not just clean-looking—but legally sound.
Landlords often skip details like security deposit return timelines or maintenance responsibilities, thinking tenants won’t push back. Tenants, on the other hand, sign without reading and later get stuck with unexpected charges. The best lease templates make these terms crystal clear. They include clauses about utility payments, late fees, notice periods, and inspection rights. Some even list the condition of the property at move-in with photos—something that saves headaches later.
What you’ll find below are real examples and guides pulled from actual rental situations across India. You’ll see how to fix a poorly written lease, what clauses are illegal under Indian law, and how to use a lease template to avoid being taken advantage of—whether you’re the one paying rent or collecting it. No fluff. No legal jargon. Just what works.