A lease is the operating manual for your rental. When drafted well, it prevents disputes before they start. When drafted poorly, it invites them.

Clauses worth getting right

  • Late fee structure. Compliant with Texas Property Code caps and clearly disclosed.
  • Maintenance responsibility. Explicit division between tenant responsibilities and landlord responsibilities.
  • Access notice. Written notice requirements for non-emergency access.
  • Alterations and painting. Clear standards prevent surprise damage at move-out.
  • Pet policy and deposits. Separate, itemized, and enforceable.
  • HOA rules. Incorporated by reference where applicable, with copies acknowledged.

Standard forms are a starting point

TAR forms are widely used and well-drafted, but any lease should be reviewed and adapted to the property. Cookie-cutter leases produce cookie-cutter disputes.

This article is educational, not legal advice.