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The Greenwich Association Realtors form plays a critical role in the residential leasing process within Connecticut. Most notably, the form outlines crucial terms such as the lease duration, monthly rent, security deposit requirements, and landlord-tenant responsibilities. By clearly identifying the landlord and tenant, as well as the address of the dwelling, the form creates a transparent framework for the leasing relationship. It defines obligations relating to rent payments, including potential late fees and the handling of a security deposit. Additionally, it specifies utility responsibilities and maintenance duties to ensure that both parties understand their roles in maintaining the property. The form also addresses the rules surrounding subleasing, alterations, and the handling of breaches, including consequences for not adhering to the lease terms. Overall, the Greenwich Association Realtors form serves to protect the interests of both landlords and tenants, fostering a clear understanding of their respective rights and obligations in the leasing process.

Greenwich Association Realtors Example

© 2003 by The Greenwich Association of Realtors, Inc.

THE GREENWICH ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS, INC.

RESIDENTIAL LEASE

The terms of this Lease dated as of the _____________ day of _______________________________________, 20____ are agreed to by

LANDLORD

________________________________________

TENANT

________________________________________

Address

________________________________________

Address

________________________________________

 

________________________________________

 

________________________________________

Original lease term: ____________ Number of Months

Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on________________________________ and ending at 11:59 p.m. on ________________________________

DEFINITIONS: In this Lease, the following words in this Definitions section have the meanings which follow them:

You, Your and Tenant: The person signing this Lease as Tenant and any other person occupying the Dwelling with our permission.

We, Our, Us and Landlord: The person or business organization signing this Lease as Landlord and anyone who becomes the owner of the Dwelling after the date this Lease is signed.

All masculine pronouns shall include the feminine or neuter pronouns and all singular pronouns shall include plural pronouns whenever it makes sense to do so in this Lease.

Address of Dwelling: ________________________________________________________________________________, Connecticut

Monthly Rent: $______________________________________

Security Deposit: $______________________________________

 

Not to exceed two month's rent: one mo nth's rent if Tenant is over age 62

Rental payment to be sent to: ____________________________________________________________________________________

Name, Address

1.THE LEASE: We agree to rent

¨Apartment ¨ Condominium ¨ House and Grounds

¨Other (describe) _______________________________

(the "Dwelling") to you and you agree to rent the Dwelling from us for the Lease Term. We and you agree to be bound by the terms of this Lease. The Lease includes (insert

number, if applicable) parking space(s);

garage(s) only for your personal use.

The Dwelling ___ is ___ is not a unit in a common interest community.

2.RENT: You agree to pay us total rent for the Lease Term of $____________________________________________. You agree to pay us $

as of the date of this Lease as rent for the period from

to.

Thereafter, you shall pay your Monthly Rent in advance on

theday of each month. If your

Monthly Rent check is not honored by the bank on which it is drawn, that will mean that we have not received your Monthly Rent. If we have not received your Monthly Rent within 10 days of the due date, you will pay interest at the rate of 1½% per month on the amount due from the due date until it is paid. You agree to make all Monthly Rent payments to us at the rental payment address indicated above or wherever we tell you by written notice.

3.UTILITIES, SYSTEMS & MAINTENANCE: (check one, not both)

(a)

We

__

You

__ will pay for electricity.

(b)

We

__

You

__ will pay for water.

(c)

We

__

You

__ will pay for telephone.

(d)

We

__

You

__ will pay for cable.

(e)

We

__

You

__ will pay security system fees.

(f)

We

__

You

__ will pay for lawn and

 

 

 

 

grounds maintenance.

(g)

We

__

You

__ will pay for snow removal.

(h)

We

__

You

__ will pay for trash collection.

(i)

We

__

You

__ will pay for gas.

(j)

We

__

You

__ will pay for heating fuel.

(k)

We

__

You

__ will pay for opening and

 

 

 

 

closing of pool.

(l)

We

__

You

__ will pay for seasonal pool

 

 

 

 

maintenance.

If the Dwelling has oil heat and you are to pay for heating fuel, you will pay us, at the beginning of the term, the then- current price for any fuel in the tank(s) used exclusively for the Dwelling. We will pay you, at the end of the term, the then-current price for all fuel in such tank(s).

4.YOUR DUTIES: You agree

(a)to use the Dwelling in compliance with all building, housing and fire codes affecting health and safety and any applicable condominium, co-operative or other applicable rules and regulations affecting the Dwelling. If you do not, and the cost of our insurance increases or we are fined, you will reimburse us for the cost of such insurance increase or such fine or fines.

(b)to keep the Dwelling clean, neat and safe.

(c)to remove from the Dwelling all garbage, trash and other waste in a clean and safe manner.

(d)to keep the Dwelling's plumbing fixtures and all appliances clean and to use them only for the purposes for which they have been designed and to use the toilet facilities only for the disposal of human waste.

(e)to use all electric, heating, cooling and other systems in the Dwelling in a prudent manner.

(f)to not willfully or negligently destroy, deface, damage, impair or remove any part of the Dwelling or permit anyone else to do so.

(g)to avoid disturbing your neighbors' enjoyment of their dwellings and to require other individuals in the Dwelling to do the same.

(h)to maintain the grounds, shrubbery and trees in a neat and orderly condition.

(i)to keep the Dwelling in good condition and pay the first $100 of any cost for each repair of the fixtures, the kitchen equipment and other appliances, unless such repair is due to a condition existing on the date of this Lease. You will pay all of such cost if the repair is required because of your misuse or neglect. If such repairs are needed to satisfy our duties under subsections (a) and (b) of Section 11, we shall pay the full costs.

(j)not to use or allow the use of a waterbed in the Dwelling without prior written consent.

(k)to keep no pet animals, livestock or fowl in the Dwelling without our written consent, except

__________________________________________.

(l)to provide and pay for public liability insurance for your and our mutual benefit in an amount of not less than $__________________________ for bodily

injury and property damage in or about the Dwelling. You will provide us with proof of such insurance.

(m)to maintain and keep in operation smoke and/or fire alarm systems in the Dwelling.

5.BROKER:

(a)We and you recognize as the broker(s) who arranged this Lease __________________________________

and________________________________________.

(b)We will pay said broker(s) a commission as agreed upon.

(c)You agree to protect us against the claims of other brokers for a commission for this Lease where the claims are based on showing the Dwelling to you or interesting you in it. This includes paying all costs of defending any such claim, including reasonable attorneys' fees. The provisions of this paragraph shall continue past the end of this Lease.

(d)No broker is responsible for the management, maintenance or upkeep of the Dwelling during the term of this Lease.

6.SUBLETTING AND ASSIGNMENT: You will not assign this Lease or sublet the whole or any part of the Dwelling without our written permission. If you assign this Lease or sublet, you shall pay any broker's commission which may be due for the unexpired term of this Lease.

7.SECURITY DEPOSIT: You agree to pay us as of the date of this Lease the Security Deposit. We shall deposit the Security Deposit in an escrow account in a financial institution. We, or any successor to our interest in the Dwelling, shall be the escrow agent for such account and will hold the Security Deposit in accordance with the provisions of § 47a-21 of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended. If you have carried out your promises under this Lease, we shall return the Security Deposit to you within 30 days after the termination of your tenancy. We shall pay you annually, on the anniversary date of your occupancy, the minimum amount of interest on the Security Deposit as required by § 47a-21 of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended. Such interest will be reported to the Internal Revenue Service using your Social Security number indicated below. You shall provide us with receipts for the payment of final utility charges which are your responsibility prior to the return of the Security Deposit. If you do not carry out your promises under this Lease, we may use the Security Deposit to pay the rent or to repay ourselves for any damages we have because of your broken promises. The Security Deposit shall not be used by you to pay any Monthly Rent. If we keep all or any part of your Security Deposit, we will, within the time required by law, give you a list itemizing the nature and amount of the damages we have suffered because of your broken promises.

8.USE OF PREMISES: You agree that the Dwelling shall be occupied and used as a private residence for one family only by you, your immediate family members and your servants. You will not permit any activity in the Dwelling which creates an unusual risk of fire or other hazard. You will not allow the Dwelling to remain vacant for more than fourteen (14) consecutive days without notifying us in advance of the planned vacancy. During any such vacancy, you agree to maintain the temperature in the Dwelling at not less than 60 degrees. You shall not be absolved of any of your obligations under this Lease during any such vacancy.

9.HOLDING OVER:

(a)You have no right to remain in the Dwelling after this Lease ends.

(b)Holding over by you does not renew this Lease without our written consent.

(c)If you remain in the Dwelling without our written consent past the term of this Lease, we may, at our option, (i) elect to treat you as one who has not

removed at the end of the term and shall be entitled to all the remedies against you as are provided by law in that situation, or (ii) elect to construe such holding over by you as a tenancy from month to month, subject to all of the other terms and conditions in this Lease, except the Monthly Rent which shall be two times the amount of the Monthly Rent during the last month of the Lease Term.

10.ALTERATIONS: Unless you receive our prior written consent

(a)you may not make alterations or additions to the Dwelling,

(b)you may not drive nails in floors, walls or ceilings,

(c)you may not paint or wallpaper any portion of the Dwelling,

(d)you may not change the locks or add any locks to the Dwelling doors,

(e)you may not remove any smoke or fire detectors or security systems or make them inoperable.

11.OUR DUTIES:

(a)We agree to comply with all building and housing codes dealing with health and safety with respect to the Dwelling.

(b)We agree to make all repairs and do whatever is needed to put and keep the Dwelling in a fit and livable condition. If the Dwelling is made unfit or unlivable by you, a member of your family, or any person in the Dwelling, you have the duty to make repairs. If you do not make these repairs, we can make them at your expense.

(c)We agree to keep all common areas, if any, clean and safe.

(d)Except as otherwise provided, we agree to keep in good condition all electric, plumbing, sanitary, heating and other systems and elevators, if any, supplied by us, normal wear and tear arising from reasonable use excepted.

12.TENANT'S DEFAULT: We may end this Lease and take possession of the Dwelling if any of the following occurs

(a)we do not receive your Monthly Rent by the due date or within the period stated in § 47a-15a of the Connecticut General Statutes. We do not need to notify you that the Rent is due.

(b)you fail to keep any of the promises you have made in this Lease.

(c)you move out of the Dwelling before the end of the Lease Term.

13.LANDLORD'S RIGHTS FOR TENANT'S BROKEN PROMISES: If you break any of your promises in this Lease

(a)we may end this Lease and make you vacate the Dwelling, and

(b)to the extent permitted by applicable law, you waive all right to notice to quit (move out), and

(c)you will pay us all lost rent and other damages or costs we may incur because of your broken promises. These costs may include the expenses of a lawyer, if we hire one, to the extent permitted by law. They may also include the costs of retaking possession of the Dwelling and, if necessary, the costs of redecorating or making repairs. If you break any of your promises, but we take no action because of it, it does not mean that we may not take action later if you break the same, or another, promise. If we have to serve you with a notice to quit possession of the Dwelling during or after the term of this Lease, you will pay us damages in an amount equivalent to the per diem Monthly Rent for each day after you vacate

that we are unable to re-rent the Dwelling up to 60 days or until this Lease would otherwise have expired, whichever comes later. You will pay us interest at the rate of 1½% per month on any amount (other than as otherwise expressly provided in this Lease) which is unpaid 30 days after we notify you of the amount.

14.SALE BY LANDLORD: If we sell the Building, we shall give the new owner your Security Deposit and any Rent you have paid us in advance. After we have done so, you will look only to the new Landlord and not to us, to enforce the Landlord's promises under this Lease.

15.INSPECTION OF DWELLING:

(a)You shall not unreasonably withhold consent to our entering the Dwelling.

(b)We or our agents may, with your consent, enter the Dwelling to do any of the following (i) inspect it

(ii)make necessary or agreed repairs and alterations

(iii)supply agreed to services and (iv) show it to prospective or actual tenants, buyers, workmen, appraisers or mortgage lenders.

(c)We may enter the Dwelling without notice or your consent in case of emergency.

(d)Within 60 days of the end of the Lease if it becomes necessary to us, you shall permit us or brokers to show the Dwelling to prospective or actual tenants, buyers, appraisers or mortgage lenders, and to place a key box upon the Dwelling for the showing of the Dwelling by brokers to prospective tenants or buyers. You agree to sign any authorization or agreement required to permit the use of a key box upon the Dwelling.

16.FIRE OR OTHER CASUALTY:

IF

1.The Dwelling is damaged by fire or other casualty, and

2.The damage substantially impairs the enjoyment of the Dwelling, and

3.You, a member of your family or other person in the Dwelling with your consent, did not cause the damage or destruction by negligence or willful act,

THEN

(a)You will not have to pay rent while the impairment continues and you may vacate the Dwelling and notify us in writing within 14 days of your intention to end this Lease, or

(b)If continued use is lawful, you may vacate any part of the Dwelling rendered unusable, in which case the rent shall be adjusted.

17.CONDEMNATION:

(a)If the Dwelling is wholly or partially taken or condemned, you shall have no claim to damages for such taking.

(b)In addition (i) we may end this Lease as of the date of such taking or condemnation or (ii) if the Dwelling is left unusable as a dwelling by such taking, you may end this Lease as of the date of said taking or condemnation or (iii) if we or you do not decide to end this Lease, it shall continue as if no taking or condemnation had occurred.

18.NOTICES: If we or you wish to give the other a notice, it shall be in writing. Our notices to you shall be delivered to the Dwelling or mailed to the Dwelling by certified mail, return receipt requested. Your notices to us shall be delivered or mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the place where you last paid your Rent. You and we shall each be responsible for collecting certified mail from the post office if the mail carrier cannot deliver it.

19.INDIVIDUAL LIABILITY: Each person who signs this Lease as Tenant is responsible for payment of the full Rent and will keep all the other promises included in this Lease.

20.PEACEFUL POSSESSION:

(a)We state that we have the right to lease the Dwelling to you.

(b)You may peaceably and quietly have, hold and enjoy the Dwelling, subject to the provisions of this Lease, as long as you meet your duties as a tenant under this Lease and all applicable law.

21.CONDITION OF PREMISES:

(a)You have examined the Dwelling and accept it in its present condition.

(b)You will not damage the Dwelling or permit damage to be done to it.

(c)When this Lease is ended, you will leave the Dwelling vacant and in as clean and good condition as it is in now. Changes in condition due to ordinary wear and tear or acts of God are excepted. Burns, stains, holes or tears of any size or kind in the carpeting, draperies or walls, among other items, shall not be considered ordinary wear and tear.

22.NO WAIVER:

(a)Our failure to insist on strict performance of any of the terms and agreements herein is not a waiver of our rights.

(b)Our failure to insist on strict performance of any of the terms and agreements herein is not a waiver of our rights in case of any later breach of the terms herein.

(c)If we accept overdue Monthly Rent, we waive our right to end this Lease because the Monthly Rent was overdue. Such acceptance will not waive our future rights if the Monthly Rent is late again.

23.BANKRUPTCY:

(a)Your rights under this Lease shall end at our option if any of the following occur

1.you are judged bankrupt, compound your debts or assign your estate for payment of debts, or

2.a receiver of your property is appointed, or

3.this Lease passes to anyone other than you by operation of law, or

4.an attachment or execution is levied against your estate and not satisfied within 72 hours.

(b)Upon such ending of your rights, all future rent and other sums due become instantly due. Acceptance by us of any sum from a person other than you shall not be deemed to be a waiver of any of your rights under this Lease.

24.SUBORDINATION TO MORTGAGES: This Lease shall be subject and subordinate at all times to any mortgage(s) now or at any time on the Dwelling. If we desire to place any mortgage(s) on the Dwelling, you agree to sign any instrument which may be necessary or desirable to give any such mortgage(s) priority over this Lease. Your refusal to sign such instrument entitles us to cancel this Lease.

25.PERSONALTY (Personal Property):

(a)We also lease to you at no additional rental the personal property now located in the Dwelling and listed in the schedule, if any, attached to this Lease. Such schedule is to be part of this Lease and has been examined and approved by you and us.

(b)You agree to lease said personal property from us.

(c)You shall permit no damage to the personal property and keep the same in good order. You shall pay for

repairs and pay for or replace any of the personal property that is damaged, broken or lost.

(d)You shall not permit any of said personal property to be taken out of the Dwelling at any time.

(e)At the end of the term, you shall return said personal property in as good condition as it is now, except for normal wear and tear. Burns, stains, holes or tears of any size or kind in said personal property, among other items, shall not be considered normal wear and tear.

26.ENTIRE AGREEMENT: You and we agree that this Lease sets forth our entire agreement. Neither you nor we shall claim that the other has made any other promise or agreement unless the promise or agreement is in writing and signed by the party making the promise or agreement.

27.BINDING EFFECT: The agreements in this Lease shall be binding upon and benefit us, and you, and our and your respective successors, heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns.

28.OTHER PROVISIONS: (See Addendum attached, if any, which is a part of this Lease).

___________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

Landlord

Tenant

 

Tenant's Social Security Number:

___________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

Landlord

Tenant

 

Tenant's Social Security Number:

AGREEMENT: _______________________________________________________________________, the owner(s) of the Dwelling

which is the subject of the above Lease ("I/We, Me/Us") and __________________________________________________________, the

broker in connection with the Lease ("You") agree to the following:

A.I/We will pay You a rental commission if during our ownership of the Dwelling

1.The term of the attached Lease is renewed or extended, or

2.The Tenant in the attached Lease continues his occupancy of the Dwelling after the termination of the Lease, or

3.The Dwelling is rented to the Tenant in the attached Lease for another season or another term.

The amount of the rental commission payable to You shall be ____________________% of the rental for the additional renewal, extension, continued occupancy, term or season.

B.If the Tenant named in the attached Lease buys the Dwelling, I/We will pay You a sales commission. The amount of the sales commission shall be __________________% of the listing price of $_________________________, less any commission already paid to You for any unexpired term of the Lease. The listing price shall be superseded by whatever is the actual sales price.

C.The term of this Agreement will take effect on the date hereof and will remain effective solely with respect to the Tenant leasing the

Dwelling, untilmonths after the termination of the Lease, or any renewal or extension thereof or any additional

term or season during which the Dwelling is rented by such Tenant.

D.You may enforce this Agreement against me/us, or against my/our heirs, administrators, executors, successors and assigns.

E.I/We shall have no obligation to renew or extend the Lease or to rent or sell or offer for rent or sale the Dwelling.

NOTICE: THE AMOUNT OR RATE OF REAL ESTATE BROKER COMPENSATION IS NOT FIXED BY LAW. IT IS SET BY EACH BROKER INDIVIDUALLY AND MAY BE NEGOTIABLE BETWEEN YOU AND THE BROKER.

THIS AGREEMENT IS SUBJECT TO THE CONNECTICUT GENERAL STATUTES PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION IN COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS (C.G.S. TITLE 46a, CHAPTER 814c.)

Dated at ___________________________________, Connecticut this _____________day of ________________________, 20_______

Realtor_____________________________________________

Owner_______________________________________________

 

Firm Name

 

 

 

 

By________________________________________________

Owner_______________________________________________

 

Authorized Representative

 

 

 

 

__________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

No.

Street

 

No.

Street

 

__________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

City

State

Zip

City

State

Zip

G259641.DOC 09/04/03

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The Greenwich Association Realtors form serves as a Residential Lease agreement between a landlord and a tenant, outlining their respective rights and responsibilities.
Parties Involved This document requires the identification of both the landlord and tenant, including their names and addresses, affirming mutual consent to the lease terms.
Lease Duration Tenants will specify the original lease term in months, including the start and end dates, helping both parties know how long the agreement will last.
Security Deposit A security deposit is required, not exceeding two months' rent, and will be held in accordance with Connecticut law, specifically § 47a-21 of the Connecticut General Statutes.
Responsibility for Repairs Tenants have a duty to maintain the premises in good condition and are accountable for minor repairs, while landlords must uphold their obligations to a safe and livable environment.
Utilities Payment The agreement includes clauses where either the landlord or tenant may be responsible for paying utilities like electricity and water, ensuring clarity on monthly expenses.
Termination Conditions The lease outlines conditions under which the landlord can terminate the agreement, including non-payment of rent or violation of lease terms, providing a clear framework for both parties.

Guidelines on Utilizing Greenwich Association Realtors

When filling out the Greenwich Association Realtors form, you'll be detailing the rental agreement between the landlord and tenant. This process involves providing specific information such as the addresses of both parties, rental terms, and conditions of occupancy. Make sure all details are accurate to avoid any potential disputes in the future.

  1. Begin by entering the date of the lease at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the landlord's name in the designated field.
  3. Provide the tenant's name in the appropriate section.
  4. Enter the full address of the rental property, including city and state.
  5. Specify the original lease term by indicating the number of months.
  6. Enter the start date and end date of the lease term.
  7. Fill in the address of the dwelling, ensuring it is complete.
  8. Indicate the monthly rent amount and the security deposit amount.
  9. Decide who will be responsible for utilities, checking the appropriate boxes.
  10. Specify duties regarding maintenance and care for the dwelling according to the list provided.
  11. Identify the broker if applicable, and indicate any commission agreements.
  12. Complete the subletting and assignment section, detailing permissions if necessary.
  13. Sign and date the bottom of the form, ensuring both landlord and tenant have an opportunity to sign.
  14. Include the tenant's social security number in the indicated field.
  15. Complete any additional agreements or addendums attached at the end.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Greenwich Association Realtors form?

The Greenwich Association Realtors form is a legally binding Residential Lease agreement utilized in Connecticut. It outlines the terms and conditions under which a landlord leases a dwelling to a tenant. This form typically includes information about rent, security deposits, responsibilities of both parties, and various provisions related to the tenancy.

Who is considered the landlord and tenant in this form?

The landlord is the individual or organization that owns the dwelling and enters into the lease with the tenant. The tenant is the person or persons who sign the lease agreeing to rent the property. Those living in the dwelling with the tenant's permission are also included under the term "tenant".

What are the tenant's main responsibilities under the lease?

The tenant must maintain the dwelling in a clean and safe condition, pay the agreed rent on time, and comply with building and safety codes. Additionally, they are expected to keep the property's grounds tidy and inform the landlord of any necessary repairs. Depending on the lease terms, the tenant may also be responsible for certain utilities.

What is required for the security deposit?

The security deposit is paid at the lease's beginning and is held in an escrow account. It cannot exceed two months' rent. The landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after the lease ends, provided the tenant has fulfilled their lease obligations. If any damages occur, the landlord may deduct the repair costs from the deposit.

Can a tenant sublet the dwelling?

Under the terms outlined in the lease, a tenant cannot assign or sublet the dwelling without obtaining written permission from the landlord. If granted permission, the tenant may also have to pay any associated broker's commission resulting from the subletting arrangement.

What happens if the tenant fails to pay rent?

If the tenant does not pay rent by the due date, they are given a grace period as specified in the lease. If the payment is still not made, the landlord has the right to pursue legal remedies to recover the owed rent. This may include notices to vacate or commencing eviction proceedings. Moreover, late payments can incur additional interest charges.

Is the tenant allowed to make alterations to the dwelling?

The tenant must seek prior written consent from the landlord before making any alterations to the dwelling. The lease specifies that no changes such as painting, driving nails, or modifying locks should occur without the landlord's approval, ensuring that the property remains in good condition.

How are disputes resolved under the lease?

Disputes arising under the lease agreement are generally handled according to Connecticut laws and may involve mediation or court proceedings if necessary. Both parties are advised to refer to the lease for specific terms regarding conflict resolution and their respective rights and responsibilities.

What is the significance of the entire agreement clause?

The entire agreement clause indicates that the lease represents the full understanding between the landlord and tenant. It emphasizes that no other verbal or written agreements exist outside this document unless documented and signed by both parties. This clause helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures clarity in the relationship between landlord and tenant.

Common mistakes

Completing the Greenwich Association Realtors form can be a straightforward task, but many people inadvertently make mistakes that can lead to complications. One common error arises in the identification of the landlord and tenant. It is essential that both parties' names are written clearly and correctly. A small misspelling or incorrect middle initial could create confusion later and affect legal obligations.

Another mistake often seen is in the failure to specify the lease term accurately. Individuals sometimes overlook the section regarding the original lease term's start and end dates. Not filling in this critical information can lead to misunderstandings and disputes down the line, particularly concerning rent due dates and move-out expectations.

In terms of financial aspects, a frequent oversight is neglecting to provide accurate details about the security deposit. The form should reflect the correct amount, and it must not exceed two months' rent. Failing to adhere to this rule could lead to potential legal repercussions for the landlord, which would complicate matters for the tenant as well.

People also sometimes fail to check the relevant boxes in the utilities section. Indicating who is responsible for paying for utilities—whether the landlord or tenant—is crucial. Missing this information may result in unexpected financial burdens for one party or the other and can create tension in the landlord-tenant relationship.

Moreover, the section regarding conditions of the dwelling can be neglected. Tenants should take care to document any pre-existing conditions and note them on the form. If this step is skipped, they may be held liable for damages present before they moved in, leading to disputes when the lease ends.

Lastly, not providing the tenant's social security number can be a significant mistake. This information is necessary for various legal and tax purposes. Without it, landlords may face challenges when filing tax forms, and tenants may experience issues obtaining their security deposit promptly upon lease termination.

Understanding the intricacies of the Greenwich Association Realtors form helps both landlords and tenants avoid these common pitfalls, promoting a smoother leasing experience.

Documents used along the form

When using the Greenwich Association Realtors form for a residential lease, several other documents may also be required to ensure clarity and compliance for both tenants and landlords. Below is a list of common forms that can accompany the lease agreement. Understanding these documents can help facilitate a smoother leasing process.

  • Security Deposit Receipt: A form acknowledging the tenant's payment of the security deposit, detailing the amount and the conditions under which it may be withheld.
  • Rental Application: A document used by landlords to collect essential information about potential tenants, including credit history and employment status.
  • Move-In Checklist: A list that tenants and landlords complete together at the start of the lease to document the condition of the property.
  • Residential Lease Addendum: An additional agreement outlining any specific terms or conditions that are not covered in the primary lease, such as pet policies or maintenance responsibilities.
  • Tenant's Insurance Policy: A document verifying that the tenant has obtained renters insurance, meant to protect personal belongings and liability.
  • Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: A document required for homes built before 1978, informing tenants about the potential hazards of lead-based paint present in older homes.
  • Notice of Entry: A form used by landlords to notify tenants in writing of the intention to enter the rental property, which is typically required by law.
  • Pet Agreement: A form that outlines the rules and responsibilities of having pets in the rental property, often including any additional deposits or fees.
  • Owner's Consent to Lease: A document where the property owner agrees to the terms set out in the lease agreement, particularly crucial if the landlord is not the owner of the property.

Each of these forms plays a vital role in defining the rights and responsibilities of both parties. Ensure that all necessary documents are completed accurately to avoid potential disputes and to protect your interests throughout the tenancy.

Similar forms

The Greenwich Association Realtors form has similarities with several other legal documents commonly used in residential leasing and property management. Here are seven examples:

  • Residential Lease Agreement: Similar to the Greenwich form, the standard residential lease agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. It includes details such as the rental term, monthly rent, security deposits, and rules about property use.
  • Rental Application: This document collects information from potential tenants. Like the Greenwich form, it aims to gather necessary details about the tenant's background and creditworthiness before finalizing the lease agreement.
  • Move-In Inspection Checklist: Just like the condition clauses in the Greenwich form, a move-in inspection checklist documents the condition of the property prior to occupancy. It protects both parties by ensuring there is a record of any pre-existing issues.
  • Pet Agreement: If tenants wish to have pets, this document serves to set the terms for pet ownership in the rental unit. Similar to the provisions in the Greenwich form, it outlines responsibilities regarding pet care and any associated fees.
  • Lease Addendum: An addendum modifies or adds specific terms to an existing lease. Like the Greenwich document, it clarifies additional agreements such as rules about shared spaces or maintenance responsibilities.
  • Notice to Quit: This document informs tenants of lease violations or non-payment of rent, resembling the termination provisions found in the Greenwich form. Both documents are crucial for providing tenants with notice before further action is taken.
  • Security Deposit Agreement: Similar to the security deposit section of the Greenwich form, this document explains the amount, conditions for deductions, and procedures for returning the deposit at lease end.

Dos and Don'ts

  • DO: Carefully read each section of the form before filling it out. Understanding the details helps ensure you make accurate entries and comply with all requirements.
  • DO: Use clear and legible handwriting or type your responses. Clarity can prevent misunderstandings and delays in processing the lease.
  • DON'T: Skip any required fields. Each section is important for the legal validity of the lease and missing information can lead to complications.
  • DON'T: Make alterations to the form without express permission. Changing the terms or conditions can create legal issues and may void the lease agreement.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Greenwich Association Realtors form can lead to misunderstandings in rental agreements. Here are six common misconceptions:

  • Misconception 1: The lease requires the landlord to handle all repairs.
  • This is not true. Both landlords and tenants have specific responsibilities regarding maintenance and repairs. Tenants must keep the property in good condition and are responsible for minor repairs, while landlords are obligated to maintain the property and ensure it meets health and safety codes.

  • Misconception 2: A verbal agreement can substitute the written lease.
  • A verbal agreement is not sufficient. Under this lease, all terms must be documented in writing. This ensures clear understanding and enforceability of the obligations by both parties.

  • Misconception 3: Security deposits can be used to pay the last month's rent.
  • This is a common error. The lease explicitly states that the security deposit cannot be used to cover any month's rent, including the final month. It must be returned after tenancy, provided all terms are met.

  • Misconception 4: Tenants can make alterations to the property at will.
  • This is incorrect. Most alterations require prior written consent from the landlord. Unauthorized changes can lead to penalties or loss of the security deposit.

  • Misconception 5: Tenants can hold over after the lease term expires without consequences.
  • This is misleading. If a tenant remains in the dwelling after the lease ends without written consent, they may face higher rent and potential legal consequences. The landlord has rights to reclaim the property.

  • Misconception 6: The landlord is responsible for all utility payments.
  • This misconception overlooks the lease terms. The agreement clearly specifies which party is responsible for various utilities, including electricity, water, and trash collection. It is vital to review these details to avoid unexpected costs.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Greenwich Association Realtors form effectively is essential for both landlords and tenants. Here are nine key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Review the Terms: Thoroughly read the lease terms to understand your rights and responsibilities before signing.
  • Accurate Information: Fill out the form with correct details including names, addresses, and rental amounts to avoid disputes later.
  • Define Utilities: Clearly indicate who is responsible for paying utilities such as electricity and water to prevent confusion.
  • Security Deposit: Remember that the security deposit must be held in an escrow account, and familiarize yourself with conditions for its return.
  • Repairs and Maintenance: Understand your obligations regarding maintaining the dwelling and the implications of neglecting these duties.
  • Holding Over: Know that tenants cannot remain in the dwelling after the lease ends without written consent from the landlord.
  • Alterations: Get written permission before making any changes or improvements to the property to avoid penalties.
  • Notices: Use certified mail for any formal communications between landlord and tenant to ensure they are documented.
  • Compliance with Laws: Familiarize yourself with relevant laws, including those regarding discrimination and tenant rights, to ensure compliance.