Lease

A contract for renting land, buildings, ect to another; a contract or instrument conveying property to another for a specified period or for a period determinable at will of either lessor or lessee in consideration of rent or other compensation.

Types of Leases

• 12 months or 1 year- require you to occupy the space for a minimum of one year
• month to month-       a minimum of 30 day of occupancy
• Tenant at Will-          this type of agreement does not have boundaries regarding a time requirement for occupancy
• subleasing-              permision from the landlor to allow someone to take over your lease for a set period of time

*Leasing agreements vary depending upon the landlord and his or her expectations for the property.  It is extremly important that you read a leasing agreement in its entirety before signing it.*

Twenty Questions Before You Sign A Rental Agreement

• Are smoke alarms installed? Working?
• How old are the smoke alarms?
• How often are the smoke alarms checked and batteries changed?
• Are there at least two ways to exit your living space and building?
• Do the upper floors have a fire escape or ladder available for each bedroom? (if there are multiple floors)
• Are  the living unit doors rated for fire?
• Are fire extinguisher available? Working?
• Were the fire extinguishers inspected within the last two years?
• Is a sprinkler system installed?
• Is the electrical wiring adequate?
• Is the building regularly inspected by the local fire department or college emergency management office for safety?
• What is the owner's policy and method for correcting safety problems in the building?
• Has there ever been a fire in this building? If so, identify the cause?
• Does the residence have a gas or electrical stove/oven?
• Do you know how to use the appliance(s) correctly?
• Where is the nearest fire hydrant on the street?
• Whos is responsible for keeping it cleared in the winter season?
• Did the school recommend the unit for student housing?
• Is the owner a member in good standing in a landlord/tenant association or other housing associations?
• Has the city and/or university recieved and safety complaints regarding this building?

Prepared by the National Association of State Fire Marshalls www.nasfm.org

More helpful information about signing leasing agreements can be found at:

Apartments.com

D.C. Office of the Tenant Advocate