Download free NYS lease

The main purpose of a Simple Real Estate Lease is to ensure that both the landlord and the tenant understand what is expected of them.

A Lease Agreement is a contract between a landlord or property manager and tenant that contains important information such as the amount of monthly rent, when rent is due, how much the security deposit is, a description of the property, how to report problems with the property to the landlord, whether pets will be allowed, etc.

How do I write a simple rental agreement?

Rocket Lawyer offers a free simple rental agreement template. This agreement is suitable for homes, apartments, condos, motorhomes or single rooms. Simply input your particular information, and the document will be written according to your needs.

Can I write my own rental agreement?

Yes. Rocket Lawyer provides a free printable basic rental agreement that you can customize with your information. This document template includes standard lease provisions as well as an inspection checklist, and a lead-paint disclosure.

Information that you'll need to complete the document includes:

• Description of the property, including address
• Start and end date of lease agreement
• Monthly rent amount
• Rent due date, information regarding late payment (such as fines, etc.)
• Security deposit amount & terms
• Contact information (landlord & tenant)
• Maximum number of occupants
• Terms for guests
• Furnishings, if supplied
• Parking information
• Storage information
• Utilities tenant is responsible for
• Termination terms
• Insurance requirements, if any
• Process for breaching the lease

Where do I get a rental agreement?

The document included on this page is a free rental agreement. Once your document has been made, you can easily sign it online and access it anytime.

What makes a lease illegal?

Restrictions on lease terms vary by state. Some common terms that are legally questionable include:

• Property damage being the sole responsibility of the tenant (regardless of whether the tenant actually caused the damage)
• Tenant being responsible for repairs (this is usually the landlord’s duty)
• Early termination damages regardless of which party wishes to terminate early
• Clauses relating to the acceptability of subletting—this varies by state
• Non-refundable security deposit
• Requiring the tenant to waive the potential right to sue the landlord

This list is not exhaustive. If you have questions about the legality of a lease that your landlord is presenting, talk to a lawyer in Rocket Lawyer's On Call Network for advice specific to your situation.