The Do's and Don’ts of Signing a Lease Agreement

25 May 2025

Signing a lease agreement is a big step, whether you're renting your first apartment or moving into a new home. It’s an exciting process, but it can also be overwhelming if you're not careful. A lease is a legally binding contract, and once you sign on the dotted line, you’re committed.

So, how do you make sure you’re doing it right? What should you look out for? And what common mistakes should you avoid? Let’s break down the do’s and don’ts of signing a lease agreement so you can move in with confidence and peace of mind.

The Do’s of Signing a Lease Agreement

Before you rush into signing anything, there are key steps you should take to ensure you’re making a smart decision.

1. Read the Lease Agreement Carefully

This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many renters skim through the lease without truly understanding it. Your lease outlines the terms of your stay, so don’t treat it like a software update agreement where you blindly click "I agree." Take your time to go through every clause.

Look out for:
- Rent amount and due date
- Security deposit details
- Lease duration
- Renewal terms
- Maintenance responsibilities

If something seems unclear, ask for clarification. Never assume anything!

2. Negotiate If Necessary

Just because a lease is presented to you doesn’t mean you have to accept every term as is. Some landlords are open to negotiation, especially if you're a responsible tenant with good references.

What can you negotiate?
- Rent price, especially if similar units in the area cost less
- Move-in date
- Included utilities
- Lease length (month-to-month vs. long-term)

It never hurts to ask. Worst case? They say no—but at least you tried!

3. Inspect the Property Before Signing

Before you sign anything, do a thorough walkthrough of the property. Check for:
- Leaks, water damage, or mold
- Functioning appliances
- Pests or signs of infestation
- Security concerns (locks, windows, etc.)

If you notice any issues, bring them up with the landlord and get them documented. Taking pictures or videos is a great way to protect yourself in case of disputes later.

4. Understand Your Responsibilities

A lease isn't just about paying rent on time. It also includes responsibilities like:
- Taking care of minor repairs
- Keeping the property clean
- Following the rules (e.g., noise restrictions, pet policies)

You don’t want to be blindsided later by unexpected obligations.

5. Ask About the Security Deposit

Security deposits are often a source of conflict between landlords and tenants. Make sure you understand:
- How much you need to pay
- What deductions landlords can make
- The process for getting it back when you move out

To avoid unnecessary deductions when you leave, document the condition of the property when you move in and follow proper procedures upon exit.

6. Get Everything in Writing

Verbal agreements don’t hold up in disputes. If your landlord promises to repair something, extend your lease, or make any changes, get it in writing. A simple email confirmation can save you a lot of trouble later.

The Don’ts of Signing a Lease Agreement

Now that you know what to do, let’s talk about what not to do. Avoiding these mistakes will help you steer clear of frustrating situations down the road.

1. Don’t Sign Without Understanding the Terms

Never sign a lease without fully grasping what you’re agreeing to. If there’s legal jargon you don’t understand, ask questions or seek legal advice. Ignorance won’t hold up in court if you ever have a dispute.

2. Don’t Ignore Hidden Fees

Some leases include extra costs beyond rent. Look out for:
- Maintenance fees
- Parking charges
- Pet fees
- Late payment penalties

Double-check what’s included in your rent and what isn’t. Surprises are great for birthdays, not for your budget.

3. Don’t Assume You Can Break the Lease Anytime

Life happens—maybe you get a new job in another city or decide to upgrade to a bigger place. But breaking a lease isn’t always easy.

Find out:
- The penalty for terminating early
- Whether subletting is allowed
- If there’s a clause about breaking the lease under special circumstances

The last thing you want is to be stuck paying rent for a place you no longer live in.

4. Don’t Forget About Renter’s Insurance

While not always required, renter’s insurance is a small investment that protects you in case of theft, fire, or other damages. Some landlords will even require it before handing over the keys. Either way, it’s a smart move to have coverage.

5. Don’t Overlook the Fine Print

Many leases contain small but crucial details about things like:
- Guest policies
- Noise restrictions
- Renovation or decoration rules

Ignoring these could lead to unexpected violations or even eviction notices. Always read the fine print!

6. Don’t Pay Anything Without Proof

When you hand over your security deposit or first month’s rent, make sure you get a receipt or a written acknowledgment. Scams exist, and paying cash without proof could leave you vulnerable. If possible, use a check or bank transfer for added security.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Lease Signing Experience

Now that you know the do’s and don’ts, here are a few extra tips to ensure a hassle-free leasing process:

1. Keep a Copy of the Lease

Always keep a signed copy of your lease for reference. You never know when you might need to revisit the terms.

2. Maintain a Good Relationship with Your Landlord

A good tenant-landlord relationship goes a long way. Clear communication and mutual respect can make your renting experience smoother.

3. Plan Ahead for Lease Renewal or Termination

If you’re planning to leave at the end of your lease, check how much notice you need to give. If you want to renew, discuss it with your landlord in advance.

Final Thoughts

Signing a lease is a big commitment, but with the right knowledge, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure a smooth renting journey.

So, before you grab that pen, take a deep breath, review everything carefully, and sign with confidence. Happy renting!