Signing a lease: five clauses to read twice

A residential lease is written by the landlord, and most tenants sign it the day they see it. Five clauses are worth reading twice (sample note).

The deposit: how much, where it is held and when it comes back. Repairs: who fixes what, and how quickly. Ending early: what notice you give and what it costs. Inspections: how much notice the landlord gives. Renewal: whether the rent can change and by how much.

A lease review takes us about eight units, under an hour. This note is general information, not advice on your own lease.