What do I include in a Roommate Agreement? Information about the property, roommates, and original lease. Term or length of the agreement. Rent responsibilities. Security deposit details. Responsibilities for utilities and household costs. House rules, roommate duties, and restrictions. Rules for termination of tenancy.
It is possible to draft your own lease agreement, but you are leaving yourself open to issues.
You probably don't expect to sue your roommate someday. Yet, it does happen. An agreement creates expectations to keep the living arrangement fair. They also provide protection and peace of mind because they are legally binding.
Answer: As a general rule, the answer is yes. Under the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, a verbal rental agreement concerning the use and occupancy of a dwelling unit is just as enforceable as a written rental agreement (or lease) is (A.R.S. 33-1310(13)).
Handwritten contracts are legally binding if they meet the necessary conditions that apply to all contracts: mutual agreement, capacity, consideration, and legal validity. There are no legal differences between typed and handwritten agreements when it comes to enforceability.
While an attorney doesn't always need to draft a lease agreement, it's in everyone's best interests that they do.
For example, California does not require lease notarization, while other states like Ohio may have different requirements. It's essential to review state-specific regulations to determine if notarization is necessary in your particular case.
written rental agreement is absolutely valid and enforceable. It doesn't need to be notarized, but must be signed by both parties to the lease. Essential terms must be present in the writing, however.
Respect privacy and boundaries. Don't look through your roommates belongings or private things. Don't borrow or use without asking permission. If it's not yours, leave it. Don't discuss private matters about the roommate (and their social life,) with others. Be polite and considerate.
How to write a roommate agreement Names of both tenants. The property address. The dates the lease begins and ends. The amount of rent each person pays. Who pays for utilities. Who pays the security deposit. Which bedroom each person occupies. Who buys food, or if you're each buying your own food.