Signing a lease is one of the most important steps when renting a home. A lease is a legally binding contract that sets the rules for your tenancy, including rent, responsibilities, and your rights as a tenant.
Taking time to review it carefully and getting clear answers before you sign can help you avoid problems later.
Before you sign
Slow down and review it carefully.
- Read the full agreement
- Ask questions about unclear terms
- Get changes in writing
- Keep a full copy for your records
A Lease Is a Legal Contract that can be Enforced Against You Once Signed
Though a lease might feel like routine paperwork, it is a legally binding agreement between you and your landlord.
Even if a lease does not list consequences for breaking it, it may still be enforced against you. For example, if a landlord is forced to evict you, under Utah Code 78B-6-811, you can still be found liable for damages in an eviction without the contract specifying that.