how to write a rental agreement for family member

Residential Lease Agreement for Family Occupancy

Instructions for Use

• Fill in all bracketed information accurately; ensure the legal names of all parties match government-issued identification.
• Both parties should review the document together to clarify expectations regarding maintenance, utility payments, and house rules before signing.
• Once signed, each party should retain a digital or physical copy of the document for their records to ensure clarity regarding the terms of the arrangement.

Parties and Property

This Residential Lease Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into on this [] day of [], 20[__________], by and between:

Landlord: [Full Legal Name of Property Owner], residing at [Current Address of Landlord] ("Landlord"), and

Tenant: [Full Legal Name of Family Member], residing at [Current Address of Tenant] ("Tenant").

Property Address: The Landlord agrees to lease to the Tenant the residential premises located at: [Full Street Address of Rental Property, including Unit Number, City, State, and Zip Code] ("Premises").

Operative Clauses

1. Term: The term of this lease shall be [] months, beginning on [] and ending on [__________]. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, this lease shall [ ] terminate on the end date or [ ] convert to a month-to-month tenancy.

2. Rent: Tenant agrees to pay a monthly rent of $[]. Rent is due on the [] day of each month. Payments shall be made via [__________] (e.g., check, bank transfer, digital app).

3. Security Deposit: Upon signing, the Tenant shall pay a security deposit of $[]. This deposit shall be held by the Landlord to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear and shall be returned within [] days after the lease ends, provided the property is left in good condition.

4. Utilities and Services: Responsibility for utilities shall be allocated as follows:

   • Electricity: [ ] Landlord [ ] Tenant
   • Water/Sewer: [ ] Landlord [ ] Tenant
   • Gas: [ ] Landlord [ ] Tenant
   • Internet/Cable: [ ] Landlord [ ] Tenant
   • Trash/Recycling: [ ] Landlord [ ] Tenant

5. Maintenance and Repairs: The Tenant shall maintain the Premises in a clean and sanitary condition. The Tenant shall promptly notify the Landlord of any necessary repairs. The Landlord is responsible for major structural repairs, while the Tenant is responsible for damage caused by their own negligence.

6. House Rules and Guests: The Tenant agrees to abide by the following rules: [List any specific rules regarding noise, pets, smoking, or long-term guests here: __________].

7. Right of Entry: The Landlord shall provide at least [__________] hours' notice before entering the Premises, except in the case of a bona fide emergency.

8. Termination: Either party may terminate this agreement early by providing [__________] days' written notice to the other party.

Signature and Acknowledgment

Landlord Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Full Legal Name of Landlord] Title: Property Owner Date: [__________]

Tenant Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Full Legal Name of Tenant] Title: Tenant Date: [__________]

Legal Disclaimer: This document is a general framework intended for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Rental laws vary significantly by state, county, and municipality. You must consult with a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction to ensure this agreement complies with all local housing regulations, fair housing laws, and landlord-tenant statutes.