Many landlords will have some type of written lease ready for the tenant to sign upon moving in. However, the type of tenancy may vary. It is important that you understand exactly what type of tenancy you have and the rights that follow. Tenants with a lease Tenants at will Tenants at sufferance Termination is not the same thing as eviction Rent increases Late payments Tenants with a lease .
Most leases are good for one year.
A lease is only valid if it is signed and dated by both the tenant and landlord, and states the date on which the lease ends. When you sign a lease you are agreeing that the conditions within the lease cannot be changed until the date on which it expires. As stated above, it is very important that this is a mutual agreement between you and the landlord. Keep in mind, the time to make changes on a lease is before you sign. Some leases are self-extending.