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Texas Residential Lease Agreement

This Texas Residential Lease Agreement ("Agreement") is made and entered into on this ____ day of ____________, 20____, by and between:

Landlord: __________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________

Phone: __________________________________________

AND

Tenant: __________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________

Phone: __________________________________________

The parties to this Agreement are subject to Texas state laws governing residential leases.

1. Property

The property leased under this Agreement is located at:

____________________________________________________.

2. Term

The lease term will begin on _____________ and will end on ____________.

3. Rent

The Total Rent for the term of this Agreement will be $________, payable in monthly installments of $________, due on the ____ day of each month.

4. Security Deposit

The Tenant agrees to pay a security deposit of $________, which will be held by the Landlord in accordance with Texas law.

5. Utilities

The Tenant is responsible for the payment of the following utilities:

  • Electricity
  • Gas
  • Water
  • Trash
  • Internet

6. Maintenance and Repairs

The Landlord will be responsible for maintaining the structure and major systems of the property. The Tenant is responsible for keeping the property clean and notifying the Landlord of any needed repairs.

7. Pets

☐ Pets are allowed with a pet deposit of $________.

☐ No pets allowed.

8. Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas.

9. Signatures

By signing below, both parties agree to the terms outlined in this Agreement:

Landlord Signature: ______________________ Date: _____________

Tenant Signature: ________________________ Date: _____________

Common mistakes

Filling out a Texas Residential Lease Agreement can seem straightforward, but many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to misunderstandings or disputes later on. One of the most frequent errors is failing to provide accurate information about the tenants and landlords. It is essential to ensure that all names, addresses, and contact details are correct. Omitting or misspelling names can create confusion and complicate communication.

Another common mistake is neglecting to specify the lease term clearly. The lease should state the start and end dates explicitly. If these dates are vague or missing, it can lead to disputes over when the lease actually begins or ends. Clarity is key; both parties should know exactly what they are agreeing to.

Additionally, many individuals overlook the importance of detailing the rent payment terms. This includes not only the amount due but also the due date, acceptable payment methods, and any late fees that may apply. A lack of clarity in this section can lead to frustration and financial disputes down the line. Both landlords and tenants should understand their obligations regarding rent payments.

Another mistake involves not addressing maintenance and repair responsibilities. The lease should outline who is responsible for repairs and maintenance tasks. If this section is left vague or unaddressed, it can lead to disagreements over who is responsible for fixing problems that arise during the tenancy. Clearly defined responsibilities help prevent conflicts and ensure that both parties are on the same page.

Finally, many people fail to read the lease agreement thoroughly before signing. This oversight can result in unintended acceptance of terms that may be unfavorable. Taking the time to review the entire document ensures that both parties understand their rights and responsibilities. It is always advisable to ask questions about any unclear terms before signing on the dotted line.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Texas Residential Lease Agreement form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure clarity and legality. Below are eight key do's and don'ts to consider.

  • Do read the entire lease agreement carefully before filling it out.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information about all parties involved.
  • Do clearly specify the rental amount and payment due dates.
  • Do include any additional terms or conditions that have been agreed upon.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; if a section does not apply, indicate that clearly.
  • Don't sign the agreement until you fully understand all terms and conditions.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the signed agreement for your records.
  • Don't overlook state-specific regulations that may apply to your lease agreement.

Similar forms

  • Rental Agreement: This document outlines the terms of renting a property, similar to a lease, but often for shorter periods, such as month-to-month. It covers rental rates, payment schedules, and responsibilities of both parties.
  • Sublease Agreement: This agreement allows a tenant to rent out their leased property to another person. It includes terms similar to the original lease, ensuring that all parties understand their rights and obligations.
  • Mobile Home Bill of Sale: To ensure a proper transfer of ownership, utilize the comprehensive Mobile Home Bill of Sale documentation that outlines all necessary details for a successful transaction.

  • Roommate Agreement: This document is used when multiple individuals share a rental property. It details each person's responsibilities regarding rent, utilities, and shared spaces, similar to a lease but focused on cohabitation.
  • Lease Addendum: An addendum is an additional document that modifies the original lease. It can address specific issues like pet policies or maintenance responsibilities, ensuring clarity and compliance with the lease terms.
  • Property Management Agreement: This outlines the relationship between a property owner and a management company. It includes responsibilities for maintenance, rent collection, and tenant relations, similar to a lease in terms of expectations and duties.
  • Eviction Notice: Although it serves a different purpose, an eviction notice must reference the original lease terms. It informs tenants of lease violations and the need to vacate the property, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the lease agreement.