A written agreement should be used by any Landlord (who may own the house or residence) wishing to rent residential property to a tenant. Many states consider oral agreements regarding the rental of real property to be invalid and require a written agreement. This type of document which is sometimes called a Residential Lease Agreement or Rental Agreement should be in writing and should be signed by both landlord and tenant. The Lease should set forth all the terms and conditions of the rental to which the parties have agreed. The Lease will also state everyone's responsibilities and rights.

Some states also will require that the landlord and tenant conduct an inspection of the premises to be rented either before the property is occupied by the tenant or before the lease is signed by either party. A joint inspection form is useful to document the inspection and can help avoid problems or misunderstandings at the end of the lease term. Even if a state does not require a joint inspection, it is a good idea to complete one for the protection of both parties.

This Montana Residential Lease Agreement packet includes everything necessary for a Landlord to enter into a lease with a Tenant, including the Lease, the Inspection Checklist and more.

These are just some of the important provisions included in this Montana Residential Lease Agreement:

• Leased Premises and Term of Lease: Describes the property, the location, how it may be used and inspection of Premises;
• Rent Payments and Fees: States the amount of the rent, the manner and timing of rental payments, and penalties for late payments or insufficient funds;
• Security Deposit: Sets forth the amount of the security deposit, and conditions for the return of the deposit;
• Default: Explains the events of default and both physical and financial remedies;
• Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment: Explains that the tenant may peaceably and quietly enjoy the premises by fulfilling his or her obligations;
• Assignment and Subletting: Sets forth the conditions under which, if any, the tenant may assign or sublet the property;
• Possession of Property, Utilities, Pets and Treatment: Describes when Tenant may take possession of the property, who is responsible for utilities and whether pets are allowed. It also covers maintenance of, damage and alterations to the property;
• Abandonment and Absences: Sets forth when the property may be considered abandoned or what happens in the even of extended absences by the tenant;
• Insurance: Sets forth the insurance requirements;

This form packet prepared by lawyers includes:

1. Instructions and Checklist for Residential Lease Agreement
2. Information regarding Residential Lease Agreements
3. Montana Residential Lease Agreement
4. Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist
5. Lead Paint Disclosure.

State Compliant: This form complies with the laws of Montana