As a property owner in Atlanta, GA, one of the most important tools for maintaining control over your residential property is the lease agreement. A detailed rental lease agreement clearly defines the relationship between you and your tenants, ensuring that expectations are understood on both sides. Custom clauses in your rental agreement can protect your property, prevent misunderstandings, and promote smooth tenant relationships. Here are several custom clauses you might want to add to your lease agreement.
Pet Clause
Pets are a key factor when renting out a property. If you allow pets in your rental properties, be sure to include a specific pet clause in the lease agreement. This clause should clearly define the type of pets allowed, any breed or size restrictions, and whether additional monthly rent or a tenant's security deposit will be required. This clause will also inform tenants about their responsibilities in maintaining the leased property, such as cleaning up after their pets or ensuring pets do not cause damage to the property.
A detailed pet clause is an excellent way to protect your leased property and ensure that both parties understand the expectations. If you’re using lease agreement templates, make sure it aligns with your property needs.
Security Deposit Clause
The security deposit is one of the most important aspects of a rental lease agreement. The security deposit covers damages or unpaid rent after the tenant vacates. Your lease agreement should include a clause outlining the amount of the security deposit, how it will be managed, and the conditions for its return.
Make sure the clause details the time frame for returning the security deposit, and include specific reasons it could be withheld, such as unpaid rent or property damage. Clarifying this from the outset helps avoid disputes when the tenant vacates.
Maintenance and Repair Requests Clause
Maintenance and repair requests are a standard part of any landlord-tenant relationship. Clearly outline how maintenance requests should be handled in the lease agreement. Include a clause that outlines the process tenants should follow when submitting maintenance and repair requests, such as using an online portal or contacting you directly.
This clause should also detail who is responsible for certain types of repairs. For example, as a property manager, you may cover structural repairs or maintenance issues like plumbing, while tenants are responsible for keeping the rental unit in good condition and for minor repairs. Clearly defining these responsibilities prevents confusion and maintains property condition.
Rent Payment and Late Fees Clause
Your lease agreement should clearly state how tenants are expected to pay rent. Specify whether payments will be made electronically or by check, the due date each month, and what constitutes late rent. Also, be sure to include a clause addressing late fees if rent is not paid on time.
This clause should outline when rent is considered late, typically after a 5-day grace period, and the late fee that will apply, such as a flat fee or a daily charge for each day the rent remains unpaid. By addressing rent and late fees in the lease agreement, you create clear expectations and can collect rent efficiently.
Subletting Clause
If you allow subletting in your rental properties, make sure to include a clause requiring the tenant to obtain prior written consent before subletting the rental unit. This clause protects you by allowing you to approve any subtenant, ensuring they meet your standards. Also, it helps maintain the integrity of the lease term and minimizes any potential issues that may arise from unauthorized subletting.
Lease Termination Clause
Including a lease termination date clause helps ensure both parties understand how the rental lease can be legally terminated. If you or your tenant wishes to end the lease term early, the lease termination date clause should specify the required notice period and any fees associated with early termination. This clause also provides the tenant with a clear understanding of the lease term, and the responsibilities if the tenant vacates early or defaults on the lease agreement.
Let HNN Atlanta Property Management Handle Your Property
By adding custom clauses to your lease agreement, you're not only protecting your property but also helping establish a strong landlord-tenant relationship based on clear expectations. Whether it’s a pet clause, a security deposit agreement, or guidelines for maintenance and repair requests, these custom terms ensure that both you and your tenants understand your rights and responsibilities.
Need help managing rental properties or drafting a custom lease? A property management company can assist. At HNN Atlanta, we specialize in creating detailed lease agreements and managing all aspects of property maintenance, rent collection, and more. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your property management needs.
