Understanding Your Apartment Lease in District of Columbia

Understanding Your Lease

A lease is a legally binding contract between a tenant and a landlord. A lease obligates both tenant and landlord to specific terms. It gives the tenant the right to occupy the landlord's property for a set period of time, so long as the tenant abides by the terms. The lease also obligates the landlord to maintain a livable dwelling and generally prevents the raising of rent within the period of the contract. Getting everything spelled out in writing up front protects both the landlord and tenant in case of disputes down the road.

A lease should always delineate the following:

• Duration of Tenancy (Lease Term)
• Names of Tenants
• Limit on Occupancy
• Deposits and Other Fees
• Monthly Rent
• Who is Responsible for Utilities
• Who is Responsible for Repairs and Maintenance
• Pet Restrictions
• Subletting Restrictions
• Landlord's Rights and Restrictions to Access
• Tenant's Activity Restrictions
• Legal Remedy

Duration of Tenancy (Lease Term)

This is simply the length of time for which the contract is binding. Leases are generally for 12 months, but can be for as little as three. The tenant is obligated to pay rent for the duration of that period, even if he moves out of the apartment, or "breaks the lease." In most states, landlords are required to make attempts to re-lease the apartment as soon as possible, and the tenant is then liable for rent until that time, in addition to the cost of re-leasing.

Make sure your lease spells out how you will proceed after the term is up. If you wish to remain, can you pay on a month-to-month basis thereafter or will you be required to sign a new lease?

Names of Tenants in your District of Columbia apartment

These are the people who are legally responsible for the agreement.

Limit on Occupancy in your District of Columbia apartment

Your lease should specify the number of people who can occupy the property. This clause will dictate whether a tenant can have roommates or not.

Deposits and Other Fees for District of Columbia apartment

Landlords typically require a security deposit, often the equivalent of one month's rent. Be sure that the dollar amount of the deposit, as well as the conditions under which it may or may not be returned, are clearly spelled out.

Monthly Rent in apartment, District of Columbia

Your lease should specify the amount of rent, when it is due (usually the first day of the month) and the acceptable methods of payment (by check, bank draft, etc.) and where payment may be made. The lease should also state in writing when penalties will be charged (is there a grace period?), the amount of penalties and also the penalty for checks returned for insufficient funds.

Who is Responsible for Utilities?

What utilities is the landlord responsible for? Water, sewer, gas, electricity, garbage, cable? And which must the tenant pay?

Who is Responsible for Repairs and Maintenance?

This should not only delineate who is responsible for specific repair and maintenance issues, but also, the landlord's policies regarding maintenance and especially emergency repairs. The lease should also include restrictions to tenants' alterations, such as requiring permission before painting or prohibiting installation of certain appliances.

Pet Restrictions

What type, breed and how many pets are permitted on the property (District of Columbia apartment)? Is there an additional deposit required for pets? Is it refundable? Under what conditions will it be withheld?

Subletting Restrictions

Can the tenant sublease the apartment (District of Columbia apartment) to another tenant?

Landlord's Rights and Restrictions to Access in your future District of Columbia home

Under what circumstances may the landlord enter the apartment? This is typically granted in case of emergency and, with prior notice, for repairs, inspections and to show the apartment to prospective tenants. Be sure the lease specifies the length of notice required before entry - generally 24 hours.

Legal Remedy

This part of the lease should specify who will pay attorney's fees in case of legal action.

Whatever you do, read your lease document carefully before signing, and don't be afraid to ask questions or even request changes. Amendments can be easily added and signed off on by both parties.

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