Published on 2/22/2026
A lease agreement does two things: it records the terms both parties agreed to, and it spells out what happens when one of them doesn't hold up their end. The first part is straightforward. The second is what most generic templates get wrong.
Can I make my own lease agreement?
Yes, you can create your own lease agreement. Many landlords choose to draft their own documents to ensure the specific rules of their property are included. However, a lease is a formal contract, so it needs to be clear and detailed to be effective.
While you do not need to hire an attorney to write a lease, using a professional template is often more reliable than writing one from scratch. A well-structured template ensures you do not overlook common situations, such as how to handle late fees or who is responsible for yard maintenance.
What is included in a lease agreement?
A thorough lease agreement covers the basic logistics of the rental and the specific rules for living on the property. Most professional leases include these five areas:
•Names of all adult tenants and the landlord
•The monthly rent amount, due dates, and acceptable payment methods
•Security deposit totals and the conditions for its return
•Maintenance responsibilities for both the landlord and the tenant
