Become a Lease Genius

A lease is a binding legal contract between you (the tenant or lessee) and the landlord (lessor). You are given the possession of an apartment that is owned by the landlord and, therefore, there are rules as to what you must do and not do.

A typical lease states the terms of the rental agreement and is legally enforceable. Most landlords use the Standard Boston Lease with an addendum.

5 Common Things to Watch Out for on Your Lease

1. Typical lease terms are 12-months, starting September 1^st and ending August 31^st. Make sure to be aware if your lease starts or ends on a different day.
2. No More Than Four refers to the city ordinance that does not allow more than four unrelated persons to live together to avoid unsafe overcrowding.
3. Watch out for…

• Apartment delivery “as is” clauses
• Red flags and rental scams!
• Unusual or unreasonable rules or clauses
• Clauses that allow landlord to access apartment without consent

4. Make sure you know all upfront costs

• 1^st Month’s Rent
• Last Month’s Rent
• Security Deposit
• Broker’s Fees (if applicable)

5. Review all lease terms and only sign if you agree to all lease terms.

For more information about leases, you can visit our in depth guide.