If the landlord has answered your questions and repaired all the problem areas, then you are ready to discuss the lease agreement. Although there are notations in rental listings as to preference given to graduate students or women, an owner of residential property may rent it to anyone on practically any terms for legal uses. However, a landlord may not refuse to rent because of age, race, religion, gender, disability or marital status. A month to month contract can be oral or written. Written Lease - A contract between a landlord and tenant in which the parties agree to certain terms for the rental of the property.
Most leases are for one year.
Regardless of whether the agreement is month to month or a written lease, the contract is binding against both the tenant and landlord. Most landlords use printed form agreements which may include clauses which are unenforceable under the law. In addition, both landlord and tenant may have other legal rights and duties that are not spelled out in the contract. Moreover, do not rely on oral promises which are not included in the agreement. The written terms of the contract control.